Pedestrian accidents occur more frequently in inclement weather when it is difficult for vehicles to stop. Snow and ice on streets, sidewalks and crosswalks increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents. Distracted driving or distracted walking can contribute to such accidents. If you are injured a Clayton County pedestrian accident attorney at Shane Smith Law can review the incident and advise you of your legal rights.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 5,000 deaths and 64,000 injuries occur yearly in pedestrian accidents. Icy conditions and other inclement weather increase the likelihood of such accidents.
Roads that are wet or coated in ice or snow are dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike; they make it more difficult for a vehicle to stop and it is more likely that a driver will lose control if defensive driving techniques are necessary. Additionally, wet or icy windshields or falling snow or rain can impair a driver's visibility. Similarly, slick surfaces create slippery crosswalks and sidewalks, make it harder for a pedestrian to quickly avoid an accident and may necessitate that a pedestrian walk in the road. Falling snow or rain can also decrease a pedestrian's visibility.
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to black ice and should be cautious in crosswalks, sidewalks or when walking in the street. The Snow & Ice Management Association, the national nonprofit organization representing the snow removal industry, offers the following guidelines:
- Wear proper footwear with heavy tread/avoid smooth soles;
- Accessorize to see and be seen, including wearing sunglasses to see in the reflective light of the snow and a bright coat or scarf;
- Walk consciously/look up while walking and be aware of traffic;
- Make sure you can hear traffic or snow removal equipment;
- Anticipate black ice;
- Walk slowly and use handrails;
- Be careful when shifting weight off a curb;
- Avoid shortcuts.
A Clayton County pedestrian accident attorney can help if you were a pedestrian and struck by a vehicle. An experienced attorney at the Shane Smith Law can secure police reports, eyewitness testimony and physical evidence. Call 866-979-1629 and ask to schedule a free legal consultation.