Distracted driving is a problem all throughout the United States. It involves drivers allowing non-driving activities, such as eating, grooming, and texting, to take their eyes off the roads. When Louisiana drivers focus on things other than the task of driving when they are behind the wheels of their cars, they can cause dangerous accidents with vehicles, bikes, and even pedestrians.
However, not all distraction-based accidents are the fault of drivers. Distracted pedestrians can create hazards for even the most conscientious drivers. This post will discuss safe pedestrian practices and how distracted pedestrians can cause harm to others.
How to be a safe pedestrian
Parents teach their children to be safe when they are near or in roadways, but too many adults forget these important lessons when they get older. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, safe pedestrians are visible and predictable. They wear bright colors and they follow the rules of the road. They stay out of roadways when possible and cross at crosswalks or other safe areas. Safe pedestrians do not allow electronics, music, and other technological devices to take their focus off of being safe when in or near roadways.
Being a safe pedestrian is much like being a safe driver. Just as drivers are expected to obey traffic signals, be aware of their surroundings, and limit distractions, pedestrians must do what they can to keep themselves and others safe.
Pedestrians can cause accidents
When a pedestrian and a vehicle are involved in a collision, it is often assumed that the driver of the vehicle was at fault for the crash. However, it is important to remember that pedestrians carry responsibility for their own safety when they step out onto the roads. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help a driver who has been accused of causing a pedestrian accident with their defense plan and strategy. This post offers no legal advice or guidance on personal injury or motor vehicle accident law.