Fatal Accident in Austin Demonstrates Danger to Pedestrians
In Austin, a woman was recently killed when she was struck by a pickup truck while crossing the road at a crosswalk. This unfortunate incident serves as an example of the fact that despite Texas traffic laws aimed at protecting pedestrians, accidents still occur and leave victims and their families struggling to recover.
What Does Texas Traffic Law Say About Pedestrians?
In Texas, drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are crossing at a crosswalk with a walk signal, or at a crosswalk for which no signal is in place if the pedestrian is on or closely approaching the side of the road on which the driver is traveling. In general, drivers are also required to exercise due care to avoid striking a pedestrian. Failure to follow these traffic laws may justify a claim of negligence if it results in injury to a pedestrian.
Contributing Factors in Pedestrian Accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nationwide, more pedestrians died in car accidents in 2018 than in any year since 1990. Some of the factors associated with pedestrian accidents include:
- Urban areas: According to the NHTSA, 80 percent of fatal pedestrian accidents occur in urban areas, such as a major city like Austin.
- Low visibility: Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur between the hours of 6 p.m. and midnight when dark conditions make pedestrians less visible to drivers.
- Alcohol: In almost half of all fatal pedestrian accidents, either the driver, the pedestrian, or both, is under the influence of alcohol.
As a pedestrian, you may be able to avoid an accident if you take extra care when walking in a high-traffic area to use sidewalks and crosswalks and obey traffic signals, watch out for vehicles before crossing the street, wear brightly colored clothing when walking in the evening, and avoid walking near roadways after consuming alcohol.
Pursuing Compensation After a Texas Pedestrian Accident
If you have been injured by a driver who was drunk, in violation of traffic laws, or otherwise negligent, an attorney can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Since pedestrian accidents can often be fatal, is important to note that the family members of the deceased may also pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Contact a New Braunfels Personal Injury Lawyer
At The Bettersworth Law Firm, we stand up for anyone who has been injured in a car accident, including pedestrians who are especially vulnerable. We can help you gather evidence to build your case for a driver’s negligence, and negotiate or litigate on your behalf to achieve a fair resolution. Contact a New Braunfels car accident attorney today at 830-443-9193 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://cbsaustin.com/news/local/woman-killed-in-northeast-austin-auto-pedestrian-crash-identified
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/TN/htm/TN.552.htm
https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/pedestrian-safety
