Of all the parties that use our nation’s streets and roadways, pedestrians are, by far, the most vulnerable. The math is simple. A human being of any size is no match for a motor vehicle of any type. In fact, a moving, non-motorized vehicle like a bicycle, scooter, or skateboard can cause serious injury to a pedestrian in a collision.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are about 60,000 to 75,000 injury-inducing pedestrian traffic accidents in the U.S. each year, and over 7,500 pedestrian fatalities. This means that pedestrian traffic fatalities account for approximately 17 percent of all traffic-related deaths annually, which translates to roughly one pedestrian fatality every 70 minutes.

 In 2022, the most recent data year, over 104,000 pedestrians were admitted to emergency rooms for treatment due to traffic accidents, and 7**,508 lost their lives** (the highest number of such fatalities in over four decades). These statistics clearly illustrate that traffic-related pedestrian safety is a growing concern.

 Pedestrian Rights

 In most instances, a pedestrian has the right of way. This means that operators of other vehicles are generally required to yield to a pedestrian on or near a roadway (this includes parking lots and driveways).

More specifically, pedestrian rights are as follows:

1. Right of Way in Crosswalks

• Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Pedestrians are generally not permitted to suddenly leave the curb into the path of a moving vehicle — but once in the crosswalk, they have the legal right of way.

2. Protection at Intersections

• At signalized intersections, pedestrians must follow walk signals.
• Turning vehicles must yield to pedestrians crossing with a green light or walk signal.

3. Sidewalk and Roadway Use

• Pedestrians have the right to walk on sidewalks. Where no sidewalk is available, they may walk facing traffic (left side of road) on the shoulder or roadside.
• Drivers are expected to stay clear of pedestrian walkways and exercise extra caution near schools, parks, and residential areas.

4. Legal Protections from Negligent Drivers

• Pedestrians injured by speeding, distracted, drunk, or reckless drivers may be entitled to full compensation for their injuries.

In many states, “vulnerable road user” laws impose harsher penalties for harming pedestrians.

If you were injured as a pedestrian, you’re likely facing mounting medical bills, a painful recovery period, lost wages, and possible permanent injury. The skilled and compassionate legal team at Attain Law can help you recover such losses and often get you compensation for punitive damages and more. Insurance companies—neither yours nor the liable party’s—can be depended upon to get you adequate compensation for what you’ve been through and will likely be dealing with for some time. To heal and move on to a better future, call the offices of Attain Law for a FREE consultation.