Cities and towns in Alberta tend to be spacious and open, with wide streets that are built for transportation by car, but not designed to be pedestrian-friendly. Sidewalks are narrow and often run parallel to busy streets with no buffer between pedestrians and vehicle traffic. Marked crosswalks are hard to find, and therefore many people end up crossing at street corners. On a multi-lane road, drivers in the middle lanes may not be able to see when a pedestrian has stepped off the curb if there are vehicles already stopped in the curb lane. Alberta weather conditions pose further danger to foot traffic, as the sun often hangs low in the sky at rush hour at any time of year limiting driver visibility. In winter, ice, snow, and short daylight hours make seeing and stopping for pedestrians even more difficult.
Calgary Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Despite the dangers waiting for pedestrians on Alberta roads, according to Alberta Transportation pedestrian accidents made up only about 6.4% of all injury accidents in 2012; but they accounted for a much higher 13.6% of fatal accidents that same year. Pedestrians are exposed, vulnerable, and no match for the size, weight, and speed of a car or truck. If a pedestrian survives being hit by a motor vehicle, the injuries can be severe, from skull or limb fractures, to cuts and road burns, to spinal cord or brain damage. Drivers have a duty to watch for pedestrians, but pedestrians also need to be alert and aware of their surroundings. Here are some things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe near vehicles while on foot:
- Look both ways before crossing the street
- Check to make sure all traffic has stopped when crossing a multi-lane road
- Avoid texting, talking on the phone, or listening to music while crossing the street
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Never let young children cross the street unaccompanied
- Try to cross only at marked crosswalks, and never mid-block or against the crossing signal
- Follow all traffic signals
- When possible, make eye contact with drivers to confirm they have seen you
- Watch for drivers making turns
Whether a pedestrian accident is a result of poor signage, or a driver speeding or passing at a crosswalk, or being distracted, careless, or drunk, we will investigate fully and determine where the negligence lies. Our lawyers are experienced in representing clients with all types of injuries including the very severe, life-altering, or catastrophic injuries that may occur in a pedestrian accident. We have represented injured pedestrians, as well as the families of pedestrians who suffered fatal injuries in accidents, in Calgary and throughout Alberta. Let our firm get you the maximum compensation for your claim and the benefits and treatment you’re entitled to. We can deal with the insurance companies and the law, while you focus on getting back to a normal life. Call us today for a free consultation.
