In today’s world, we are more inclined than ever before to become absorbed in our phones. It seems that anytime there is a small break or pause in our daily activities, we quickly check our phones for texts, missed calls, news updates, and other information. Unfortunately, more people are walking while distracted, which makes them less aware of their surroundings and more prone to collide with a car, truck, motorcycle, or other vehicles. Auto accidents involving pedestrians can be serious, so it’s essential to speak to a trusted personal injury attorney to discuss the specifics of your situation.
A Growing Problem
While it’s impossible to determine exactly how many pedestrians are “walking while distracted,” one survey conducted by Pemco Insurance found that over 50 percent of pedestrians in Washington and Oregon reported using their phones to text, read, or talk while walking. When pedestrians walk without paying attention to their surroundings, they may disregard traffic signals, step into a crosswalk without looking, failing to use a crosswalk properly, or otherwise jeopardize their safety.
Distracted Driving Also an Important Factor
Although Washington drivers should be on higher alert for inattentive or distracted pedestrians, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) reminds us that distracted driving is a much more common and widespread issue. According to a WTSC government liaison, pedestrian crashes are much more likely to involve distracted drivers than distracted pedestrians. Moving forward, the focus is on discouraging distracted behaviors for all individuals on the road, whether they are behind the wheel, on a bike, on a motorcycle, or on foot.
Keeping Your Future Bright
If you were recently injured in a pedestrian accident, make sure that you’ve received any necessary medical attention. Even if your injuries were not immediately apparent, it’s important to visit your doctor to determine whether you have any internal bleeding or conditions that can be harder to detect. Contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss the specifics of your situation. Together, you can develop a sound legal strategy for pursuing and securing compensation that can assist with the costly medical bills, lost wages, or other financial hardships you’ve suffered as a result of the accident.
The dedicated and compassionate personal injury attorneys at Henderson Taylor Law Firm are committed to advocating on behalf of auto accident victims in Vancouver, Battle Ground, Camas, and throughout Clark County. Call (360) 737-1478 today to get started.
