- December 2, 2019
In many cities, December is the time to head indoors since the weather is so frightful. Things are different in Baton Rouge, LA. Even though it’s technically winter, the weather is so good that walking around is still pleasant. Unfortunately, in the lead up to the holidays, there are lots of vehicles on the road and pedestrian accidents are more likely. This makes walking around a little less attractive.
Pedestrians, like other road users, are more at risk of injury during the festive season. There are many reasons for this. Firstly, people are less focused because of the excitement in the air. Many are also tired because they spread themselves too thin. Others drink alcohol in excess and then drive away. Pedestrians can also be vulnerable because the days are shorter, and motorists may not see them in the dark.
As a Louisiana car accident lawyer can attest, pedestrians are among the road users most likely to be seriously hurt when they get hit. They don’t have helmets, airbags or seat belts to protect them, so they are especially vulnerable. The good news is that pedestrians can help to ensure their own safety. Let’s discuss some of the things you can do.
Make Sure You’re Visible
You need to make sure drivers can see you. Wherever possible, make eye contact with them before you cross in front of their vehicles. This is especially important at night, dusk and dawn when light is low. Be sure to wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night and stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Many pedestrian accidents involve alcohol. In 2017, there were 116 pedestrian fatalities and 1,493 pedestrian injuries in the state of Louisiana. Of the fatalities, 44 percent were alcohol-related. What may be surprising is that sometimes, the pedestrian is the one who has been drinking, not the motorist. Walking while drunk is a dangerous practice. Alcohol impairs your reflexes and your decision-making skills, regardless of whether you’re driving or walking. If you want to stay safe this season, you should avoid drinking in excess.
Stay on the Alert
You probably have a lot on your mind at this time of year. There are last-minute errands to run, gifts to purchase and parties to attend. However, you need to keep your wits about you as you make your way around the city. Look around and listen out for sirens, horns, screeching tires and other traffic sounds. Even though it may be tempting to text or send emails as you walk, keep your eyes on the road. This is one of the simplest ways to stay safe.
Don’t Expect Drivers to Follow the Rules of the Road
Drivers and cyclists are required to adhere to traffic laws. However, you shouldn’t assume that they will follow them, especially at this hectic time of year. They may run red lights, ignore stop signs or neglect to yield the right of way. Be careful as you step onto the roadway or cross the street even if you’re in a familiar area. Keeping yourself safe is the best way to prevent pedestrian accidents during the holidays.
Walk Where It’s Safe
Use sidewalks as long as they are available. When there are no sidewalks, walk facing the traffic on the far side of the road. When you need to cross the street, use the crosswalk. When crosswalks are not available, find a well-lit area to stand and wait for an opportunity to cross safely. Remember to look both ways before crossing even when you’re in a rush. You should never dash out into traffic assuming a driver will stop.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney For Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents happen, and they can involve serious injuries. If you’ve been injured, you should contact an injury attorney in Baton Rouge. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your crash, you may be eligible for compensation. You may be able to recover damages for injuries, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Our team will do everything possible to relieve some of your stress during what is supposed to a festive time. It would be very difficult to handle your case on your own. Not only are you likely to be overwhelmed and in pain but the insurance company will try to take advantage of you. if you want the best chance of recovering full compensation, you need to get legal representation. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. You won’t have to pay us until we secure compensation on your behalf.
