In our fast-paced world, many people find solace and relaxation in activities such as running, strolling or walking their furry companions.
However, dangers lurk amidst the serenity and health benefits these activities offer – because pedestrians are uniquely at risk for some devastating injuries.
Accidents with motor vehicles due to distracted drivers
You don’t have to be in a car to be in a traffic accident. In 2021 alone, the National Center for Health Statistics estimated that almost 9,000 pedestrians lost their lives in accidents on roadways, in parking lots and in driveways – and countless more were injured.
One of the primary dangers pedestrians face is distracted drivers. With the rise of smartphones and other electronic devices, drivers often find themselves engrossed in their screens rather than focusing on the road ahead. The lack of visibility also creates unique hazards for pedestrians when they encounter traffic. A human being jogging along the road or taking a walk may not be noticed by a distracted driver until it’s too late, especially on poorly lit streets, at nighttime or during inclement weather.
Uneven surfaces and unexpected obstacles in your path
Wherever you’re trying to get your exercise in, the surface you tread upon can pose a significant hazard. Uneven sidewalks, potholes in parking lots, poorly maintained stairwells and landscaping or construction debris can easily cause a pedestrian to slip, trip and fall – resulting in sprains, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries or worse. Quite often, such accidents are due to a property owner’s negligence, especially when they could have done more to either correct the problem or erect warnings and barriers.
Unpredictable canine encounters
Whether you’re walking your own dog or just trying to walk off your dinner, an encounter with a strange dog can quickly turn into tragedy. While the vast majority of dog owners are responsible people, some owners will let their dogs roam or simply fail to control them when they turn aggressive. An unprovoked dog attack can leave you with serious injuries, infections, permanent scars and lifelong emotional trauma from the situation. If the dog’s owner knew their dog was vicious or dangerous, they can be held liable for the animal’s actions.
You have every right to enjoy a little fresh air and exercise without fear of injury, but be cautious and take the appropriate steps to protect yourself in every situation. If some harm does befall you, find out more about what it takes to successfully pursue a claim for fair compensation.
