Our smartphones, earbuds, and constant connectivity often pull our attention away from where it should be—like watching the path ahead. Pedestrian accidents in Pennsylvania are increasingly caused by distracted walking, especially in busy areas like cities or college campuses.
While much of the focus tends to be on distracted driving, walking without paying attention can be just as dangerous.
In this post, we’ll explore the risks of distracted walking, share real-life stories, and discuss how a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Pennsylvania can help if you’ve been injured.
The Rise of Distracted Walking: A Growing Issue
Distracted walking occurs when a pedestrian’s attention is diverted by activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or using headphones. Many pedestrian accidents involve cellphone use. And with smartphones becoming more ubiquitous, this number is expected to rise. While some pedestrian incidents may result in minor scrapes, others can lead to life-threatening injuries or even fatalities.
According to the PennDOT, almost 200 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the state in 2023. Pennsylvania has not been immune to this trend.
Real-Life Stories of Distracted Walking Mishaps
The Social Media Scare
In Philadelphia, a young woman was so engrossed in her phone that she failed to notice the open manhole in front of her. She fell several feet into the sewer system, sustaining injuries to her legs and back.
While this incident may sound unbelievable, it’s a stark reminder of how dangerous distracted walking can be. This pedestrian was lucky to survive, but the outcome could have been far worse.
A Headphone Hazard
In a small town in Pennsylvania, a college student walking to class was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. She had headphones on and didn’t hear the car’s horn or the screeching tires as it approached.
Although the vehicle was going under the speed limit, the impact left her with a concussion and several broken bones. This tragic incident highlights the fact that even low-speed collisions can cause severe injuries when pedestrians are not paying attention to their surroundings.
Texting at the Crosswalk
A man in Pittsburgh was texting while crossing the street at a crosswalk. Distracted, he failed to notice the traffic light change and was struck by a car making a legal turn. While he was in the crosswalk, his lack of attention to the surroundings led to the accident.
The driver argued that the pedestrian should have been more aware, leading to a complicated legal case involving both parties.
The Law in Pennsylvania: Protecting Pedestrians
Pennsylvania law provides specific protections for pedestrians, particularly in designated crosswalks. Under Title 75, Section 3542 of Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code, drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing within any marked crosswalk or at an intersection without traffic signals. However, pedestrians also have a responsibility to exercise reasonable caution.
For instance, Section 3543 prohibits pedestrians from suddenly stepping off a curb into the path of a vehicle that is too close to stop safely.
These laws aim to balance pedestrian safety with driver responsibilities. However, determining fault can become complicated in cases where distracted walking leads to an accident.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a pedestrian accident, consulting with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Pennsylvania can be crucial in understanding your legal options and securing compensation.
Liability in Distracted Walking Accidents
When a distracted pedestrian is involved in an accident, determining who is at fault can be complex. Pennsylvania operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning both the pedestrian and the driver can share responsibility for the accident.
Under Pennsylvania law, a person can recover damages as long as they are less than 51% responsible for the accident. For example, if a pedestrian was found to be 30% at fault for being distracted, they could still recover 70% of the damages.
If you’ve been injured, a Pennsylvania pedestrian accident attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How to Stay Safe as a Pedestrian
Avoiding pedestrian accidents starts with awareness. Here are a few tips to keep yourself safe:
- Put the phone away: Texting or scrolling through social media can wait until you’ve reached your destination. Keep your eyes on the road.
- Use crosswalks: Stick to designated pedestrian areas and ensure drivers see you before stepping into the street.
- Take out the earbuds: Music is great, but being able to hear your surroundings is more important. Consider using only one earbud or turning down the volume.
- Make eye contact with drivers: This helps ensure that the driver has seen you and is preparing to stop.
Contact a Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured due to distracted walking or a pedestrian accident, seeking legal help can make a difference. A Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer will review your case, determine fault, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Don’t wait—if you’re searching for a pedestrian accident lawyer near me, Mooney Law is ready to assist.
With experience in handling pedestrian accident cases, our firm can help you navigate Pennsylvania’s legal system and secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation with an experienced injury lawyer in Pennsylvania.
