Between 2014 and 2018, over 800 severe pedestrian accidents occurred on San Antonio roadways. As the city of San Antonio continues to grow at a rapid pace, it is easy to see why this is such an important problem that needs to be addressed. Citizens who are simply minding their own business and walking around their hometown are becoming severely injured and incapacitated as a result of motorists who are recklessly harming them.
A pedestrian accident is simply defined as an accident or collision involving a pedestrian and an automobile, 18-wheeler, or motorcycle. This type of accident commonly occurs in places such as crosswalks and parking lots, or any other area where pedestrian foot accident is high.
There are numerous causes of pedestrian accidents. Below, we’ve outlined some of the most common causes we see when working with clients.
Reckless driving is a serious problem that can end lives. In the United States, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of others. Reckless drivers may not realize how dangerous their behaviors are, but the truth is that unsafe lane changing, speeding, aggressively passing other vehicles, and other unsafe driving habits can cause a tragedy to occur.
Road rage is another unfortunate cause of many pedestrian accidents. This type of accident cause is not to be confused with reckless driving. While reckless drivers tend to inadvertently injure pedestrians through their own selfish and reckless tendencies, road rage is a term used to describe a driver who chooses to deliberately hurt a pedestrian. Texas drivers are not known for their friendliness, and San Antonio is no exception. Many motorists in this state are quick tempered and easily angered during their daily commutes. Because of this, pedestrian accidents can take place if a driver feels as though they have be obstructed, disrespected, or “cut off” by a pedestrian who is crossing the street or walking to their personal vehicle.
Driving while distracted continues to be an extreme problem around the world. Defined as any type of driving that takes place while the driver is not entirely focused on the road ahead, many distracted drivers choose to multitask during their commutes. Even though simply adjusting your tie or brushing your hair may seem like small tasks that will not negatively impact your driving skills, it’s important to realize that it only takes a split second for a pedestrian accident to occur. Keeping your eye on the road at all times is a great way to avoid pedestrian accidents.
The driver’s seat is no place for an individual who is intoxicated, inebriated, or under the influence of alcohol. Intoxicated driver’s license holders have the responsibility of using a taxi, rideshare service, or a sober acquaintance for transportation when they are under the influence. Unfortunately, drunk driving still remains as a common cause of pedestrian death. Nearly half of all deadly pedestrian accidents are caused by drunk drivers.
Spinal cord injuries take place when an individual’s seven cervical vertebrae (C1 to C7) or lower vertebrae (T1 to T12 or L1 to L5) are severely damaged by a sudden impact or crash. Common consequences of spinal cord injuries include paraplegia (paralysis of the legs) or quadriplegia (paralysis of the arms and legs), but there are other difficulties you may face depending on the severity of your accident. Many pedestrian accident victims who suffer from spinal cord injuries report symptoms such as gastrointestinal complications, urinary problems, respiratory illness, and even psychological issues such as insomnia and anxiety.
Injuries related to emotional and mental suffering cannot be brushed under the rug. Many pedestrians suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder, an incurable disease. Victims of PTSD typically suffer from unwanted flashbacks, feelings of worthlessness, increased anxiety, and depressive episodes. Pedestrians who have suffered from PTSD as a result of a pedestrian accident may find walking around town to be an extremely distressing event.
Serving the greater Houston and San Antonio areas, Pusch & Nguyen have what it takes to lead your case. With years of experience helping Texans receive millions of dollars in settlements and recovery, we can help you understand your San Antonio pedestrian accident case in greater detail. We will also put together a strong case that represents you will, and if we don’t win, you don’t pay. For more information on how we can help, contact us today at 210-702-3000 to schedule an appointment with a member of our team.