In our last blog post, we wrote about the dangers of texting while driving. But what about motor vehicle accidents that are the result of texting while walking?
It turns out that can be equally as deadly, according to a recent report from the Governors Highway Safety Association.
The study found that nearly 6,000 pedestrians were accidentally struck and killed in 2017, USA Today reported in February, with experts placing some of the blame on smartphone use on the part of both drivers and walkers.
“It’s downright disturbing,” Richard Retting, one of the authors of the report, told USA Today. “People outside cars are dying at levels we haven’t seen in years.”
It’s a frightening scenario, and one that a pedestrian accident lawyer can help you manage when it happens. But it doesn’t have to happen.
What can I do to reduce my risks for being involved in a pedestrian accident?
The best way to keep from getting in a pedestrian accident is to remain alert. Watch for people who are walking, using a wheelchair, riding a bike, rollerblading, skateboarding or playing in the road.
Be especially careful of children and older people, who may be less wary of drivers and more likely to ignore traffic signals or wander outside crosswalks.
Pedestrians might be jaywalking. They might be drunk or using drugs. It doesn’t matter. As the driver, it’s your job to be safe. Hitting a pedestrian can be dangerous or deadly, so stay alert.
What happens if I’m involved in a pedestrian accident?
Let’s say you do everything right, but a motor vehicle accident still occurs. There are some important things you need to do – and not do.
1. Stop your car
This is a must. It’s illegal to leave the scene of an accident, especially when injuries are involved.
2. Get out of your car and check for injuries
Put your emergency blinkers on and see what kind of help the pedestrian needs. Call 911 and give CPR or any other kind of aid if possible.
3. Alert the police
They’ll need to get everyone’s statements and talk to witnesses. Call the police even if the pedestrian gets up and walks away. This will prevent you from later being accused of a hit and run.
4. Get people’s info
Get the name, address and phone number of everyone at the scene. Make sure you have witness information in case they leave before the police arrive or the officer doesn’t put that information in their report on the accident.
5. Make a record
Get out your phone and take photos of the damage from the crash and – if possible – any injures. Get photos that show the entire area where the accident happened, from as many angles as you can.
6. Do not leave
We can’t stress this enough. Wait until you’ve been cleared by the police or other emergency responders and have exchanged information with the other party.
7. Don’t touch anything
It’s important to make sure any evidence that’s connected to the motor vehicle accident is preserved.
8. Don’t talk to anyone
Watch what you say at the scene of the crash. Do not discuss details with the accident, and do not apologize to the other party, which can be seen as ad admission of fault.
Before talking with insurance company representatives – yours and the other person – consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer. If the other person’s lawyer reaches out to you, refer them to your attorney, who can speak on your behalf.
All of which is to say, if you’ve been in a pedestrian accident, you need to contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.
The attorneys at Penglase & Benson can draw on 64 years of experience in fighting for clients involved in serious motor vehicle accidents.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Whether you’re facing criminal charges or involved in a civil case connected to the crash, we can make sure your voice is heard.
