Houston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Walking is a great way to get around Houston. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and is better for the environment. Unfortunately, pedestrians face many risks while they are on the road. Drivers do not always respect pedestrians or give them the space they need to walk safely. This results in pedestrian accidents, which cause some of the most serious injuries. If you have been hurt, you can file a claim to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and more. Our Houston pedestrian accidents lawyer can help with your claim so you obtain the full settlement you deserve.
How Common are Pedestrian Accidents in Houston?
Pedestrian accidents are extremely common in Houston. In 2019, these accidents were responsible for 660 fatalities among walkers, and thousands more suffered serious injuries, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. That same year, drivers were involved in 8,500 crashes involving cyclists and pedestrians. In the city of Houston, accidents involving pedestrians have increased 125 percent in the past decade.
While shocking, what is even more alarming is that these accidents are entirely preventable. They are typically caused by a driver’s negligence, or carelessness. When that is the case, the at-fault driver can be held liable for paying compensation for any of the losses a pedestrian sustains.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?
It is important that all walkers know the most common causes of pedestrian accidents so they can avoid them. It is also important to identify the cause of any crash, so you know who to hold liable for paying damages. The most common causes of pedestrian accidents are as follows:
- Distracted driving: When drivers take their eyes and focus off the road, they may not see a pedestrian in time and crash into them. When motorists drive while distracted, they also take their hands off the wheel, which may not give them the necessary time to react to a pedestrian.
- Speeding: Speeding reduces the amount of time a driver has to make important decisions, and it will also reduce the amount of time they have to stop. Speeding drivers may not be able to stop before they hit a pedestrian.
- Intersection turns: Drivers may check to ensure the path ahead of them is clear before making a turn at an intersection. However, they may not check to make sure a pedestrian is not crossing the road in the direction they are turning, ultimately crashing into the walker.
- Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is very dangerous behavior. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, exhibit poor judgment, and drive recklessly, all of which can cause a pedestrian accident.
Our Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers in Houston Can Determine the Cause of Your Crash
Pedestrian accidents happen very quickly and you may not know what caused yours. At Gilde Law Firm, our Houston pedestrian accidents lawyers will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of your accident and hold the appropriate party accountable. Call us today at 800-973-3106 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
