Pedestrian accidents are a significant concern on the roads of the UK, with thousands of people suffering injuries each year due to negligent driving and unsafe conditions. According to the Department for Transport, pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries remain a pressing issue, particularly in urban areas where road traffic is high. The causes of pedestrian accidents are varied, but some factors appear more frequently than others. In this article, we will explore the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in the UK and provide insight into how victims can seek compensation for their injuries.
1. Distracted Driving
One of the most prevalent causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are not fully focused on the road due to activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting in-car devices are more likely to miss seeing pedestrians crossing the road. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), distraction is a leading cause of accidents across all road user groups, including pedestrians. In such cases, the pedestrian can be legally entitled to compensation, especially if the driver’s negligence is proven to be the cause of the accident.
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to accidents involving distracted drivers, especially at busy crossings or near schools and parks. Drivers failing to notice a red traffic light, a pedestrian crossing signal, or simply not paying attention when approaching a crossing are all examples of negligence.
2. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Excessive speed is another key factor contributing to pedestrian accidents. According to the Department for Transport (DfT), pedestrians struck by vehicles travelling at higher speeds are far more likely to suffer serious injuries or fatalities. A study by RoSPA suggests that the risk of death increases significantly for pedestrians struck by vehicles travelling above 30 mph.
In urban areas, where pedestrians are often close to traffic, speeding can have catastrophic consequences. Drivers failing to adjust their speed to match the road conditions, especially in residential or densely populated areas, put pedestrians at great risk. When an accident is caused by speeding, it is possible to hold the driver accountable and pursue a compensation claim.
3. Poor Road Conditions and Maintenance
Another common cause of pedestrian accidents is poor road conditions. Potholes, uneven surfaces, cracked pavements, and poorly maintained crossings all pose a significant risk to pedestrians. A lack of proper signage or poorly lit pedestrian crossings can further increase the likelihood of accidents, especially at night. These issues are often the responsibility of local authorities or the agencies responsible for maintaining roads.
In some cases, pedestrians may not realise that a poorly maintained path or crossing has caused their injury. If you have suffered an accident due to inadequate road maintenance, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Gov.uk provides guidance on reporting unsafe road conditions, and in some cases, compensation may be claimed against local councils or other responsible parties for neglecting proper maintenance.
4. Alcohol and Drug Use
Both driver and pedestrian impairment due to alcohol or drugs is another significant cause of accidents. Drunk or drugged drivers are less likely to notice pedestrians, or may not respond to changing traffic conditions in time. The Road Traffic Act 1988 sets clear guidelines regarding driving under the influence, but unfortunately, some drivers ignore these laws and continue to drive irresponsibly.
Pedestrians under the influence of alcohol or drugs are also at greater risk of being involved in accidents. Impaired judgment, slower reactions, and poor decision-making can lead to dangerous situations, such as jaywalking or crossing roads without looking. However, if an accident occurs due to a driver’s impaired state, the responsibility typically lies with the driver, and the pedestrian may still be entitled to claim compensation.
5. Failing to Yield at Crossings
Despite the presence of pedestrian crossings, many accidents occur because drivers fail to yield to pedestrians. Zebra crossings, in particular, are often the site of pedestrian injuries, as some drivers do not stop or slow down when pedestrians have the right of way. Government of UK stresses the importance of awareness at crossings, with both drivers and pedestrians needing to be cautious.
While pedestrians have clear rights at crossings, drivers are sometimes unaware of these rights or simply ignore them. In such situations, a pedestrian may be able to claim compensation for their injuries, especially if there is evidence of driver negligence, such as witness statements, CCTV footage, or dashcam evidence.
6. Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make the roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians. Slippery pavements or roads can cause pedestrians to lose their footing, while poor visibility makes it more difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians, especially in poorly lit areas.
During bad weather, both drivers and pedestrians must take extra care to avoid accidents. However, if an accident occurs due to bad road conditions or poor visibility, the pedestrian may be able to pursue a compensation claim, particularly if there was negligence involved, such as a driver not adjusting their speed for the weather conditions.
7. Poor Visibility and Lighting
Many pedestrian accidents occur during the evening or at night when visibility is reduced. Pedestrians walking in poorly lit areas or crossing roads without adequate street lighting are more likely to be struck by vehicles. Drivers are also at risk of not spotting pedestrians due to poor lighting or the glare from streetlights or headlights.
When accidents happen due to poor visibility, compensation claims can be made if the cause is linked to poor road infrastructure, such as faulty streetlights or inadequate signage. Local authorities or property owners may be held liable if these issues are found to have contributed to the accident.
What To Do If You’ve Been Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, your first step should be to seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Once you are safe, it’s important to gather evidence, such as taking photos of the accident scene, obtaining witness details, and contacting the police to file a report.
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other costs associated with the accident. National Claims can help you put in touch with experienced solicitors who specialise in pedestrian injury claims. They will guide you through the claims process and work hard to secure the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents remain a serious issue in the UK, and it’s essential that both drivers and pedestrians remain vigilant. Whether the cause is distracted driving, speeding, poor road conditions, or another factor, pedestrians have the right to seek compensation if they’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. National Claims can connect you with expert solicitors who will provide the support and expertise you need to pursue your claim. Contact us today to take the first step towards securing the compensation you deserve.
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