Hartford Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

In 2018, 20.4% of traffic fatalities in the state of Connecticut were pedestrians according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Pedestrian accidents are almost exclusively the result of driver negligence, although there are numerous factors that can cause a crash.

Examples of driver error may include:

• Failing to stop at stop signs or traffic lights
• Not checking behind them before backing or pulling out
• Paying more attention to their phone than to the road
• Driving under the influence of a substance like prescription drugs or alcohol
• Failing to signal while turning
• Speeding and other reckless driving
• Failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks
• Disregarding weather or traffic conditions

Pedestrians may be at fault for accidents when they:

• Fail to look both ways before crossing the street
• Dart into the road from between cars or behind obstructions rather than crossing in designated areas
• Are difficult to see because of failing to wear high visibility clothing in low light or bad weather

According to the NHTSA, the vast majority of pedestrian fatalities occur in urban areas (81%) as opposed to rural areas (19%).

Pedestrian accidents often occur in urban areas where vehicle traffic is heavy, especially on or around:

• Intersections
• Crosswalks
• Roads without sidewalks or shoulders

These incidents are also more likely to occur during the evening and nighttime hours when visibility is low and both drivers and pedestrians are more likely to be intoxicated.