Robert I. Feinberg Personal Injury Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Pedestrians in Massachusetts need to be particularly vigilant after the clocks are turned back in autumn for daylight saving time. Not only do the hours of darkness increase, but drivers—and pedestrians—appear to suffer from sleep deprivation when clocks are readjusted. This translates into a higher number of traffic accidents, including pedestrian accidents. One study reported a 186 percent increase in fatal pedestrian accidents between the end of October and beginning of December .

Pedestrians are involved in 12 percent of all traffic deaths nationwide. In 2008, there were 4,378 pedestrian fatalities from traffic accidents and 69,000 injuries.  In addition to the month following the end of daylight savings, pedestrian-auto accidents are more likely to occur in:

• Urban areas
• Non-intersection locations
• Nighttime hours

Risks to Massachusetts pedestrians

Massachusetts has a better pedestrian fatality record than many other states, but more could be done to make it safer for people to walk to where they are going. Wide arterial roads seldom have safe crossing mechanisms in place for those on foot and cars travel at higher speeds. The odds of surviving being hit by a car going over 40 miles per hour are only 15 percent. 

No collision between pedestrian and automobile is good. Depending on the speed of the car, the pedestrian might be propelled forward with violent impact to the ground. Often, the pedestrian will fall onto the hood after being struck, and then tumble over the roof of the car or smash through the windshield. There may be multiple impacts to the body and this means serious injuries—broken bones, traumatic head injuries, and organ damage.

Given the high cost of treating these injuries, insurance companies may offer a quick settlement. Before accepting, consult with a skilled Boston personal injury attorney.

Walk defensively

Just as drivers are cautioned to watch out for other cars, pedestrians should practice defensive walking. Be wary of drivers who are using cell phones or other devices since they may be distracted—and avoid texting while walking.  Everyone is aware of the hazards posed by drunk driving, but drunken pedestrians are also more likely to be injured by a car. Nearly half of the reported pedestrian fatalities involved a drunk driver—and 36 percent involved a drunk pedestrian . Be particularly cautious at night and when crossing busy intersections.

If you are injured after being struck by a car, you may be able to claim damages if the driver was at fault. You will be most successful if you have a knowledgeable auto accident attorney on your side.

Contact an experienced Boston personal injury lawyer

Being struck by a moving automobile is a traumatic accident that can leave you with serious injuries. Proving driver negligence may not be easy. Feinberg & Alban, PC, has assisted clients injured in pedestrian traffic accident in getting the damages they are entitled to under the law.  Before you make any decisions, come in and talk with us. 

Feinberg & Alban PC
141 Tremont Street
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 232-5950