Statistics compiled by the Ohio State Highway Patrol reveal that in 2016 there were 140 pedestrians killed in accidents with vehicles. It is critical that all pedestrians in the state understand that being hit by a vehicle can result in severe and debilitating injuries, and even death. Pedestrian accidents are frequently unexpected and can significantly change the course of a person’s life. If you or a loved one is injured in a pedestrian accident, speak with our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Ohio Law and Pedestrian Accidents
There are several Ohio laws that apply to pedestrian accidents, which include the following:
Ohio Revised Code section 4511.12(A) states that pedestrians are required to obey all traffic controls.
Ohio Revised Code section 4511.46(A) states that if there are not any traffic controls, vehicle operators must yield the right of way to a pedestrian crossing the road and on the road on which the vehicle operator is driving.
Ohio Revised Code section 4511.48(A) states that every pedestrian crossing a road at any section other than within a marked crosswalk or unmarked crosswalks at intersections are required to yield the right of way to vehicle operators.
Risk Factors Associated with Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere at any time, but there are some factors that tend to increase the likelihood that a pedestrian accident will occur. These accidents most often occur in the morning, with the most dangerous time for these accidents being between 6 pm and 9 pm. A large number of deadly pedestrian accidents also occur after dark when it is hardest to see. Pedestrian accidents are most likely to occur on the weekends as well as holidays when a large number of vehicles are on the road. These accidents tend to occur on urban roads as well as in areas with crosswalks. A small number of pedestrian accidents occur on open highways.
The Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include the following:
Drivers who do not stop at intersections
Drivers who fail to give pedestrians the right of way at intersections
Drivers who leave their vehicle after a collision or engine failure
Drivers who operate their vehicles while distracted
Drivers who speed
Pedestrians who cross the road in places where they are not allowed
Pedestrians who fail to pay attention to their surroundings
Pedestrians who walk onto the road by mistakes
Property owners who fail to adequately maintain their premises
Injuries Caused by Ohio Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians in Ohio can be injured in a variety of ways when accidents occur, but most often these injuries include:
Obtain the Services of our Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
After a pedestrian accident, your first focus should be on recovering your health. Meanwhile, a skilled personal injury attorney can focus on protecting your rights and making sure that you obtain the compensation that you deserve from the at-fault party. The pedestrian accident lawyers at Kruger & Hodges will remain committed to making sure that you obtain the compensation that you deserve. Contact our law firm today to schedule an initial free consultation. We serve the Cincinnati Area out of our office in Hamilton, Ohio located just blocks from the Butler County Courthouse.