Fatal Outcomes for Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Texas
When a driver gets behind the wheel of a car, they take on a major responsibility. By driving a multi-ton vehicle, they implicitly agree to pay attention to the road, as well as those around them. Unfortunately, however, not all drivers take this responsibility quite as seriously as they should. Sometimes, pedestrians pay the ultimate price for a driver’s inattention or loss of control.
When Drugs and Alcohol Are a Factor
In many cases, pedestrian deaths and injuries aren’t just the result of inattention or distracted driving. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol are often responsible for pedestrian accidents and subsequent injuries or fatalities. An accident in Conroe left two victims in its wake. The driver lost control of her vehicle and ran off the roadway, where she ran over two pedestrians pushing their bikes. The male pedestrian pushed his girlfriend out of the way and was subsequently killed by the accident. His girlfriend suffered minor injuries.
A third person walking with the couple saw the driver of the vehicle throw a pill bottle into the ditch immediately after the accident. The driver was charged with intoxicated manslaughter and tampering with evidence as a result of the accident and her attempt to dispose of the pill bottle.
A Rise in Distracted Driving
While drugs and alcohol do put pedestrians at risk, there are many other dangers that increase the chance of a pedestrian accident. A significant amount of drivers admit to operating their vehicles while eating, drinking, applying makeup, and using their phones. A few seconds of distracted driving is enough time for a pedestrian to enter into a vehicle’s path without the driver noticing.
In response, many states have tried legislative solutions to the distracted driving epidemic. Many areas have made texting and driving illegal, and there are also a variety of public service efforts designed to highlight the risks of driving while distracted.
Protecting Pedestrians’ Rights
While you may be unable to control the actions of those on the road, you should know your rights and take steps to protect yourself. When a vehicle is approaching, you should always assume that the driver will not stop. Do not attempt to enter a crosswalk until traffic is clear in both directions. While walking on the shoulder of the road, try to give yourself extra space for cars that veer off the road and onto the shoulder.
If an accident occurs, you should consider hiring a personal injury attorney in Round Rock to represent your best interests. The effects of a crash can be catastrophic and lead to physical injuries, large medical bills, a loss of income, emotional distress, and other damages. Many pedestrian accident victims who settle with an insurance company find that the amount offered is not enough to cover their mounting medical bills, time off of work, and related expenses. An attorney can figure out exactly what you deserve, make a case for you to the insurance company, and take your case to court if necessary. This will reduce your stress so that you can focus on rehabilitation.
Let Us Represent You in Your Pedestrian Accident Case
Don’t try to take on the insurance companies on your own. Instead, let us go to bat for you. Get a free consultation by calling Elissa I. Henry Law Firm at (512) 766-4529.
For More Information:
Texting and Driving in Texas What You Need to Know
The Top 3 Things You Should Know About Texas Personal Injury Law
