Walking offers countless advantages, especially not having to worry about traffic and parking. Unfortunately, high vehicle traffic leads to higher rates of pedestrian accidents, many of which can be severe and life-altering. If you have injuries from a vehicle-pedestrian collision, be sure to consult an experienced pedestrian accident attorney for advice.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Piscataway include driver errors, inadequate infrastructure, poor lighting, and distracted driving or walking. You have the right to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation if someone else’s negligence caused you harm. Call Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, to schedule a free consultation and consider what your options are.
What Are the Typical Causes of Collisions With Pedestrians?
The most typical causes of Piscataway pedestrian accidents include the following:
- Distracted motorists failing to notice people crossing the road in urban areas, whether inside or outside of crosswalks
- Jaywalking and entering roadways outside of crosswalks, particularly in areas with a lack of pedestrian infrastructure
- Low visibility during nighttime hours or inclement weather, particularly when the pedestrian is not wearing bright or reflective clothing
- People on foot running or darting across traffic, surprising motorists who cannot stop in time to avoid them
- Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, not stopping and staying stopped until the pedestrian reaches the sidewalk on the other side
- Speeding and reckless driving which increases the severity of injuries
- Motorists or pedestrians intoxicated by drugs or alcohol
- A driver or pedestrian talking on a phone, texting, or using a smartphone in some other way
- Drivers backing out of parking places or driveways without checking for people behind them
According to New Jersey state authorities, distracted driving is the leading cause of all vehicle-related accidents, including those involving pedestrians.
Rules and Regulations
In Title 39 of the New Jersey Statutes, state pedestrian laws emphasize the responsibility of both pedestrians and drivers for promoting safety. The statutes describe protocols for giving the right of way when necessary, making mandatory stops at crosswalks, and showing additional due care for vulnerable pedestrians.
Pedestrian fatalities are a significant public safety concern, and the rules and regulations are constantly evolving. Awareness of the most frequent causes of pedestrian accidents in Piscataway is important for drivers and pedestrians alike. In addition, for drivers, there are some essential regulations to abide by at all times.
Stop and Stay Law
All drivers must come to a complete stop at marked and unmarked crosswalks, and they must remain stopped until those crossing the street reach the other side. This rule also applies to motorists turning right on a red light, those at stop and yield signs, or when pedestrians are within one lane of them. The fine for a first violation is $200, and fines increase substantially for each subsequent citation.
Safe Passing Law and Right-of-Way at Signals
When drivers approach or pass people who are walking or cycling, they must slow down and provide a minimum of four feet of clearance. Failure to comply carries a $100 fine when no bodily injuries occur and $500 and two points on the driving record when injuries do occur. Pedestrians crossing the street on a green signal have the absolute right of way.
Call an Attorney to Learn About Frequent Causes of Piscataway Pedestrian Accidents
Knowing the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Piscataway and following the state’s traffic laws can help keep you safe. On the other hand, you cannot prevent someone else’s negligence.
If a reckless driver harmed you, you have every right to hold them responsible and seek compensation for your losses. Contact the offices of Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced lawyer to learn about your best next steps.
