Pedestrian accidents are dangerous, violent events that can leave victims with serious injuries and even result in fatalities. Across Texas and throughout the country, victims of all ages suffer significant losses when they are hit by moving vehicles. In particular, children can suffer traumatic injuries when they are involved in pedestrian accidents with motor vehicles.

There are a number of reasons that children are involved in pedestrian accidents, and this post will only discuss a few of them. No part of this post should be read as legal advice, and readers with questions and concerns about pedestrian accident litigation should contact their motor vehicle accident attorneys for guidance.

Young Children are Impulsive and Unpredictable

One reason that kids are often harmed in pedestrian accidents is that they do not always check their surroundings before they enter roadways. Young children, particularly those under the age of 9, may not stop before chasing toys into a street, regardless of whether there are vehicles present. In many jurisdictions, drivers are subject to a heightened duty of care when operating their vehicles in places where children may congregate, such as near schools, parks, and community centers.

Drivers Violate Traffic Laws

A common cause of pedestrian accidents is speeding. Drivers who are going too fast for conditions or faster than posted speed limits may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting pedestrians who are crossing in front of them. Drivers who fail to use their signals, run red lights and stop signs, and who engage in other illegal driving practices can put child pedestrians at risk of injury.

Drivers who Operate While Distracted

Distracted drivers cause many different forms of accidents, including pedestrian accidents. A driver who is focused on their phone may not see a child in a crosswalk. Distracted driving puts lives at risk and can result in dangerous collisions between pedestrians and vehicles.

In the wake of a pedestrian accident, a victim and their family can investigate their legal rights to compensation. A personal injury attorney can help them find answers and support based on their unique claims.