Personal Injuries: Three Types of Pedestrians Most At Risk
With the summer heat upon us and schools closed for the season, many South Carolina cities will be seeing increasing numbers of tourists lured by the area’s attractions. While many people vacation at popular locations throughout the area, many eventually make their way into downtown areas. Unfortunately, with the increased numbers of people from out of town walking and driving city streets, there is an increased risk of pedestrian accidents and injuries. Whether you are a local or just visiting for the day, it is important to be aware of the most common types of pedestrians involved in these accidents, as well as the steps you can take to keep you and your loved ones safe.
According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV), there are three types of people most likely to suffer serious, potentially life-threatening injuries in pedestrian accidents.
Children
Whether as the result of playing ball, chasing friends, or simply being distracted by something on the other side of the street, children are among the most likely pedestrians to bolt from between parked cars or fail to look both ways before crossing the street, making them among the most likely candidates for pedestrian accidents and injuries. The SCDMV advises motorists to be on the lookout for young ones when traveling through family neighborhoods or near popular children’s attractions, such as schools, parks and playgrounds. Parents are urged to teach their children the rules regarding road safety, including teaching them to always look right, then left, then right again before crossing, and to cross at designated crosswalks to prevent injuries that could result in severe disabilities and even deaths.
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Older Adults
While many older adults and seniors are active and use walking as a way to maintain their health and vitality, unfortunately, they are also among the most likely to be seriously injured in pedestrian accidents. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, older adults are more likely to take medications and to have multiple prescriptions for drugs that could impair their judgment, dexterity, and reactions times. The SCDMV advises drivers to be on the lookout for seniors walking across parking lots, or in and near intersections. Slow down and be prepared to wait to allow older adults extra time to cross safely. If you have an aging loved one who enjoys walking, offer to go with them,
or take them to a neighborhood park or mall to ensure they get their exercise safely.
People Who Are Intoxicated
While there is nothing inherently wrong with people wanting to go out for an evening or gather with friends, it is important to remember not to overdo it when it comes to consuming alcohol. The SCDMV reports that in addition to drunk driving accidents, alcohol has a significant impact on your judgement when walking, and intoxicated people are among the most likely to suffer severe injuries and even fatalities in pedestrian accidents. If you are out for an evening, be careful of how much you drink, and if you have a friend who is intoxicated, offer to escort them home, rather than just taking their keys or letting them walk home themselves.
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Find Assistance with Your Case
Your personal injury lawyer Columbia SC will offer you a free consultation to discuss the circumstances of your case. One of the most crucial matters is the statute of limitations for filing a claim. If you are well within the deadlines, your attorney will then start settlement negotiations with the responsible party. When everyone involved agrees on the right amount to receive, the case ends quickly and smoothly. However, in some situations, your case might need to go to court. Therefore, your attorney will put things in motion after filing the complaint, including evidence gathering, depositions, finding experts, and so on.
If you or someone you care about is injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm. Our experienced South Carolina personal injury lawyers can help you get the compensation you need to recover from your injuries, either through an insurance claim or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against an at fault party.
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