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Did you know that there are a shocking number of pedestrian deaths each year? In fact, the latest reports show that 5,000 Americans lose their lives each year due to collisions with motor vehicles. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are far more devastating and prone to result in major injuries, because the human body just wasn’t designed to withstand the impact of a vehicle. As a pedestrian, you can obey all the laws and practice as many safety precautions as you want, but it just takes one drunk, distracted, or reckless driver to end your life or do lifelong damage to your body. This is why it is imperative for you to know everything you possibly can about pedestrian laws.
Understanding The Sidewalk Laws
Keep in mind that some laws can vary from one state to another. However, most cities and states stick to a universal understanding, when it comes to pedestrian laws. You probably already know that sidewalks were intended for pedestrians, but you might not know that all pedestrians must remain on these sidewalks at all times when walking. If there is no sidewalk present then it is your responsibility to stay on the shoulder of the road as far away from traffic as you possibly can get. Along with this, it is the pedestrian’s job to make sure that they are always walking so that they are facing the direction of oncoming traffic.
Always Have A Good Lawyer In Mind
It just takes a single bump and you could end up with a dislocated hip or a slipped disc that puts you out of work for months. This could be detrimental to your family’s finances, especially if you are the sole provider. So, if you constantly find yourself on foot battling traffic, you need to consider several good pedestrian accident lawyers. In the event that you are injured or dead, your family will know exactly how to proceed.
Exploring Soliciting Statutes
If you are standing near a public roadway it is illegal for you to ask for business opportunities, employment, or any kind of contribution at all. In fact, you can be rightfully arrested for this in many states. These statutes would also include hitchhiking, since it would be considered soliciting a ride.
Have A Great Understanding Of Crosswalk Laws
Crosswalks were installed for pedestrian safety, but you would be surprised at how much they get abused and misused. Jaywalking is one of the most violated laws in general, and just about 90 percent of pedestrians are guilty of jaywalking at some point. Jaywalking basically is the form of crossing a street on foot in an illegal manner. It is always in the pedestrian’s best interest to use crosswalks whenever they are available. Even if you have to walk 30 to 45 seconds out of your way to reaching the crosswalk, using them will make sure that the law protects you in the event that an oncoming vehicle hits you. If there aren’t any crosswalks your best option is to exercise extreme caution at all intersections, as they can be extremely dangerous and highly traveled.
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Photo Credit: The Author
