Too often, drivers spend more time focusing on reaching their destination more quickly, letting other distractions take their minds away from the road, and forgetting about the power of their vehicles. Though pedestrians are instructed to keep to sidewalks and cross only when a pedestrian signal indicates it’s safe, they do not always abide by the rules. It’s important for drivers to observe the posted speed limit, stay alert, and pay attention to the road in front of them so they’re aware of pedestrians before their vehicle could come into contact with them.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) records, “On average, a pedestrian was killed every 2 hours and injured every 8 minutes in traffic crashes” in 2013. NHTSA also notes that there were over 4,000 pedestrians killed and about 66,000 injured from traffic crashes in the US alone in the same year.
The NY Times reveals that the average U.S. car weighs around 4,000 pounds (2 tons). People can easily forget the power of destruction behind their vehicles while in motion, especially because they’re not meant to feel bulky and heavy when operated. Sometimes it takes a traffic scare or an accident for drivers to realize the severity of damage their vehicles can do. We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to stay alert at all times and focus on the road to avoid accidents.
Think of the stakes: you could take another person’s child or partner from them if you’re not careful on the road. You’ll carry guilt as well as a lawsuit, which can burden your finances tremendously. A family will have lost a loved one, must grapple with the grief and sorrow accompanying the accident, and will suffer financial hardships with the loss of the family member. The financial burdens can easily pile up for the driver at fault with a lawsuit, vehicle repairs, and other unforeseen costs. The consequences are not worth the risks of distractions.
Contact Crane Flores, LLP if you or a loved one has been injured or involved in an accident. Our seasoned attorneys want to help you get the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us via live chat or call us 24/7 at (805) 628-4967 to receive a free consultation.