The number of fatal pedestrian accidents has increased dramatically in the last decade, nearly doubling over that time. If your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, your family can file a wrongful death lawsuit to receive compensation. The Law Office of Steven M. Krause, P.A. can help.
The increase in serious pedestrian accidents in South Carolina can be attributed to several factors. There are more pedestrians on the streets, as walking is an encouraged way of reaching a destination.
On the other side, passenger vehicles have become much larger as automakers have phased out sedans from their vehicle lineups. Still, the number one reason for the spike is smartphone overuse.
Drivers bear most of the blame for the rising number of pedestrian accidents. They have become far more negligent and reckless in recent years, often feeling a sense of entitlement on the roads. The pandemic made the situation worse because drivers got even more reckless when there were fewer vehicles on the road.
Here are some examples of driver negligence that can cause a fatal pedestrian accident:
Pedestrian safety is even more threatened at night. According to the Department of Transportation, three-quarters of pedestrian accident fatalities happen at night. Drivers are even more reckless when there are fewer cars on the road.
It is the driver’s obligation to exercise the proper care, so long as the pedestrian is crossing where they have the right-of-way. If the driver does not see the pedestrian or the crosswalk, it is their mistake.
Your wrongful death attorney will help your family figure out all responsible parties who can be sued in a pedestrian accident case.
In some cases, your loved one may have been struck by a driver who was on the job at the time of the accident. When that happens, the driver’s employer would be legally responsible for the negligent acts of the driver in the scope of their employment. That may be beneficial for your family, because there is more insurance coverage to pay for your damages.
South Carolina families trust the Law Office of Steven M. Krause, P.A. to fight for them when they have been harmed by someone else’s negligence. We can handle your case from beginning to end. We offer free consultations to prospective clients.
Call us today at 864-225-4000 or fill out our online contact form to get started.
Steven Krause is a personal injury, auto accident, and workers’ compensation lawyer who practices in Anderson, SC. He graduated form the Thomas M. Cooley School of Law and has been practicing law for 40 years now. Steven Krause believes in fighting for the injured. Learn more about his experience here.