In Dallas and throughout Texas, auto accidents can cause catastrophic injuries and death. Among the most at-risk people are pedestrians. Because they have no protection, a pedestrian who is hit by a car or truck could face major challenges including broken bones, spinal cord damage, brain trauma and worse. Fatalities are unfortunately common in an auto-pedestrian accident. Avoiding them is, of course, preferable. But when they occur, those who were impacted should understand what steps they should take.
Pedestrian fatalities on the rise in Texas
According to the latest statistics, approximately 20% of traffic deaths involve a pedestrian. This is a growing concern with the weather improving and the health crisis finally beginning to recede. More people will be out and about. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is urging drivers and pedestrians to take caution. The numbers are troublesome. In 2019, there were nearly 6,000 auto-pedestrian accidents in the state with 1,317 serious injuries and 669 fatalities. That was a 5% spike in fatalities when compared to 2018. In the five years from 2015 to 2019, there were 3,150 pedestrian deaths.
The state has sought to enhance safety by improving roads, sidewalks and areas where pedestrians and vehicles converge. Still, safety remains a concern. TxDOT says that drivers should adhere to the rules of the road, yield to pedestrians when they have the right of way, avoid distracted driving, stick to the speed limit and drive sober. Pedestrians play a role as they too must follow proper safety procedures by shunning such dangerous activities as jaywalking.
It is important to have assistance after a pedestrian accident
Although this research centered on fatalities, pedestrian-car accidents also lead to injuries with major life changes personally, financially and emotionally. An extended stay in the hospital and the treatment can be extremely expensive. Lost time at work will result in reduced income and there is no way to know when or if the person can return to the job. Family members could be responsible for caring for an injured family member.
Fatalities can leave the family wondering how they will pay for a funeral and move forward without the financial and personal contributions the lost loved one provided. Gathering evidence and dealing with the insurance company can be complicated. To seek compensation for all that was lost, it is imperative to have advice from the start. Consulting with experienced professionals can provide guidance and help.