WHEELING PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

Wheeling is a great city for walking and you can find pedestrians everywhere. Pedestrians choose to walk and run for different reasons such as wanting to reduce their carbon footprints, getting some exercise, connecting with nature, and avoiding parking issues and traffic backups. But along with all of the benefits to traveling on foot, there is one major downside: the risk of pedestrian accidents. In 2016 there were almost 6,000 pedestrian fatalities and 24 of them occurred here in West Virginia. Preliminary data for 2017 shows almost no change in the number of fatalities.

The Governors Highway Safety Association reports that while other types of fatal accidents saw a 14% decrease in the number of fatalities, pedestrian fatalities increased by 27% between 2007 and 2016. Pedestrians are an especially vulnerable category, as they generally have no protection in the event of an accident. Statistics show that children who do not yet have the experience and maturity to appreciate the dangers of being struck by a car and people over 70 who have started to experience a physical decline are especially at risk when it comes to pedestrian accidents.

PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT INJURIES

If you have sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, contact Wheeling pedestrian accident attorneys at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman to schedule a consultation. Our attorneys know that pedestrian accidents that do not result in fatalities often result in serious, life-altering injuries. Pedestrians are no match for motor vehicles that weigh an average of more than 4,000 pounds and can travel at high rates of speed. Injuries that often occur in motor vehicle accidents include cuts and lacerations, broken and crushed bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

HOW TO STAY SAFE AS A PEDESTRIAN

We have seen many pedestrian accidents in our practice and see a lot of common factors that relate to pedestrian accidents. Increase your chances of staying safe as a pedestrian by following the tips listed below.

• Do not use your smartphone while walking, especially when crossing the street. The Governors Highway Safety Association speculates that the 27% increase in pedestrian accidents may in part, be due to the increase in smartphone use.
• Do not drink and walk. While it may be more responsible than drinking and driving, drinking and walking are still not safe. Almost half of the pedestrian fatalities in 2016 were related to alcohol with 13% of drivers and 33% of pedestrians have a blood alcohol content level of more than .08.
• Always follow traffic signals.
• Cross at intersections when crossing the street. 72% of fatalities occur in travel lanes located away from intersections.
• Walk on streets with sidewalks.
• Use pedestrian overpasses and underpasses when available.
• Be extra cautious and available to help the elderly and children pedestrians.
• Do not walk at night and if you do, carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing. 75% of pedestrian fatalities in 2016 occurred after dark.

We know the challenges and struggles related to pedestrian accident injuries and we can help. Contact a Wheeling pedestrian accident attorney at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman who can help value your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and strengthen your case for trial. We want to see that you and your family receive the financial security that you deserve.