Walking is a great way to get around, especially in large metropolitan areas like Houston. Many people who choose to get around on foot believe that they are completely safe from harm. Sadly, that is not always the case. Pedestrian accidents are on the rise across the country, while other types of vehicle collisions are on the decline. If you were injured in a Houston pedestrian accident, the at-fault driver could be liable for your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Do Texas Pedestrians Always Have the Right-of-Way?
Pedestrians may be under the assumption that they always have the right-of-way. However, that is not always the case. Usually, pedestrians do have the right-of-way when they cross the street at designated crosswalks or when following the electronic pedestrian crossing signal. Under the Texas Transportation Code, pedestrians are not provided legal access to all roadways. In certain areas, pedestrians are not allowed to walk on highways, across certain bridges, and in some areas with high traffic volume. Pedestrians are not permitted to walk against a traffic light or when the pedestrian signal does not permit them to do so.
What Causes Houston Pedestrian Accidents?
There are many factors that can contribute to pedestrian accidents in Houston. Some of the most common include speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. Drivers using cell phones or texting are not focused on the road, and even looking away from the road for a few seconds is enough time to cause a catastrophic collision. Drivers must use extra caution in areas where a large number of pedestrians are present.
The Texas Department of Transportation provides some helpful guidelines to help prevent serious pedestrian crashes. As a rule, pedestrians should:
- Travel on sidewalks, not on the road
- Cross the street at designated crosswalks
- Pay attention to traffic
- Avoid using their phone while walking
- Avoid using headphones that may prevent them from hearing crucial traffic noises
- Avoid stepping off the curb until it is safe to do so, regardless if there is a walk signal.
Pedestrians should not assume that a driver is able to see them and will come to a stop. Always make eye contact with the driver to make sure they are aware you are there.
Injuries resulting from Texas pedestrian accidents can be severe and even life-threatening. A pedestrian is no match for a large motor vehicle. If you were injured in a Houston pedestrian crash, you should seek medical attention immediately because some injuries can worsen over time. Some of the most typical injuries include broken bones, back and neck injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Recovering from these kinds of injuries can be a long and difficult process. The cost of long-term recovery can be detrimental financially. The at-fault driver should be held responsible for your medical bills, future rehabilitation, and other damages associated with the crash.
Houston Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Pedestrians walking the streets of Houston are some of the most vulnerable to being seriously injured in the event of a vehicle collision. The legal team at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD can help you recover after being unfairly injured by a reckless driver. Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD, Nader A. Rabie, JD, and the rest of our team of experienced Houston pedestrian accident lawyers have over 14 years of combined experience, and we have the resources to pursue all possible avenues for compensation. Give us a call today at 713-840-7200 to discuss your case and see what we can do for you if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Houston.
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