Is There Any Situation Where a Pedestrian Can be At Fault for a Car Accident? 

 Posted on December 16, 2022 in Personal Injury

The holidays have arrived, and with them comes the hustle and bustle of roadways and shopping centers all over Illinois. Unfortunately, during this busy time of year, it is not uncommon for motor vehicles and pedestrians to come into close contact. Whether it be someone crossing the parking lot of a shopping center weaving in and out of cars or someone simply failing to use a crosswalk, this time of year may see an uptick in car accidents caused by pedestrians. 

In the battle of right-of-way between humans and cars, humans do not always automatically have the right-of-way. In some situations, pedestrians can be responsible for causing a car accident. Drivers and pedestrians alike have to apply reasonable care on roadways. When reasonable care is not met, accidents and injuries can happen. If you have been involved in a car accident where you believe a pedestrian is responsible, consult with an experienced car accident attorney who will work with you to defend your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome on your behalf. 

When Can a Pedestrian Be At-Fault for a Car Accident? 

Common instances of when a pedestrian is responsible for a car accident is if they jet out in front of a car quickly and the car has no time to stop before hitting them. In these cases, the driver may be able to sue the pedestrian. Damages may involve medical bills, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering. Moreover, if a car is forced to swerve to avoid hitting someone and ends up hitting a car, the pedestrian may still be liable for causing the accident. Other situations where a pedestrian may be at fault for a car accident include the following:

• Darting into a road without looking 

• Failing to use a crosswalk when crossing the road

• Crossing the road when traffic signals are instructing pedestrians not to cross

• Failing to look both ways crossing the street and coming into the path of oncoming cars

Dangerous things can happen when pedestrians believe they always have the right-of-way over a car. Therefore, during this holiday season, it is essential for both pedestrians and drivers always to be aware of their surroundings, follow traffic signals, and always try to proceed with caution whenever pedestrians and cars are in close vicinity to one another.

Contact a Bloomingdale Car Accident Lawyer

If you have been involved in a car accident and think a pedestrian was to blame, do not hesitate to contact the law office of David. W. Clark, P.C, where the knowledgeable Wheaton car accident attorney will protect your rights and pursue any compensation you may be entitled to. Call 630-665-5678 today for a free consultation.

Source: 

https://www.cdc.gov/transportationsafety/pedestrian_safety/index.html