Summer Pedestrian Accidents in Baltimore: How To Reduce Your Risks
During the summer season in Baltimore, the city offers a variety of activities designed to appeal to both residents and visitors. However, between heavy traffic and an increase in people on the streets, pedestrian accidents become more common. Our Maryland pedestrian accident lawyers explain common causes, how to reduce your risks, and your rights to compensation.
Common Causes of Baltimore Pedestrian Accidents
Whether it involves taking in a ballgame, visiting local museums, or listening to live music, Visit Baltimore offers a long list of activities running throughout the summer season. When attending various events, make safety your top priority.
Pedestrian accidents are common throughout Maryland and tend to increase during the busy summer months. Dangerous driving behaviors that increase the risks include:
- Distracted driving: Examples include using cell phones or navigation devices, talking to passengers, and other in-car activities.
- Failure to yield at crosswalks: Drivers often overlook marked crossings, especially when turning.
- Rushing through red or yellow lights: Failure to stop increases pedestrian risks at local intersections.
- Speeding: Not only does speeding increase the risk of pedestrian accidents in Baltimore, but it also increases the odds of fatal injuries.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol and drugs are another common cause of potentially fatal crashes involving pedestrians.
To protect yourself when walking around Baltimore, wear light, bright colors to increase visibility. Have children hold your hand, use sidewalks and designated crosswalks at intersections, and never assume a driver sees you or will stop.
How To Protect Your Rights To Compensation After a Baltimore Pedestrian Accident
Zero Deaths Maryland reports that nearly 3,000 pedestrian accidents happen throughout the state each year. These crashes can cause life-changing injuries. When reckless driving is responsible, you have the right to seek compensation.
Payment for your medical costs, lost earnings, and pain and suffering may be available, either by filing a claim with the driver’s insurer or taking your case to court. To protect your rights, take these steps if injured in a crash:
- Get a description of the driver and their vehicle: It is not uncommon for at-fault drivers to flee the scene.
- Notify law enforcement: Even minor pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries. Call the police immediately and make sure they complete an accident report.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene and your injuries, if possible, and get contact information for witnesses.
- Get medical treatment: Tell your doctor all your symptoms and follow their advice regarding testing, treatment, and activity restrictions.
- Avoid making statements to insurers: Any statements can be used against you later.
- Get legal help: Our Baltimore pedestrian accident lawyers protect your rights throughout the claims process and helps you make the maximum recovery.
Request A Consultation With Our Experienced Maryland Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
Pedestrian accidents in Baltimore are unfortunately common during the summer months. At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we protect victims and their families, helping them get the maximum amount they need to cover their medical bills, lost income, and other costs. To request a consultation, call or contact our Baltimore pedestrian accident lawyers online today.
Sources:
baltimore.org/events/
zerodeathsmd.gov/news/pedestrian-crash-statistics-2022/
