Pedestrian Accident results from failure to obey Traffic Law

All too often, we hear of pedestrians who were seriously injured or even killed as a result of inattentive or reckless driving actions.  Of course, pedestrians are unprotected and thus particularly vulnerable when struck by a vehicle, so such accidents typically result in serious consequences for an injured pedestrian.  However, one must be fair in acknowledging that sometimes pedestrians are also at fault in motor vehicle collisions, which may result in injury to themselves and others.

The most common circumstances in pedestrian-caused accidents are: pedestrians who don’t obey traffic laws; distracted or inattentive pedestrians; individuals who are impaired by alcohol or drugs; and poor visibility or night-time conditions.   However, in most instances of pedestrian accidents, the motor vehicle driver contributes to, or is negligent in, causing injury or death to a pedestrian.  According to a recent and intensive study of pedestrian deaths by the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario, common causes of pedestrian accidents involve: drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians having the right of way; inattentive drivers; speeding; and impaired drivers.

On November 18, 2016, the Canadian Press reported that disturbingly, pedestrian deaths in Ontario are at an eight-year peak. This is based on Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) statistics which reveal that there were 30 pedestrian deaths to-date in this province, while not yet at year-end.  This is the highest number since 2007 when 37 people were fatally injured in pedestrian accidents that year. 

Both pedestrians and motorists are reminded to always be cautious and monitor for other road users.  Drivers should be particularly careful in neighbourhoods where children, seniors and persons with disabilities are crossing, as these groups are at higher risk of injury.  Let’s keep in mind that one moment of inattention or recklessness may result in a life-altering injury for yourself or another person.

If you or a family member were injured in a pedestrian accident resulting from a careless or negligent action, you may be entitled to compensation for any losses resulting from the accident.  Losses may include: loss of income if you were unable to work while recovering; rehabilitation expenses, such as chiropractic or physiotherapy; pain and suffering; and other expenses arising from your injuries.  Injury Lawyers of Ontario are an affiliation of experienced and well-respected lawyers working and living in local communities throughout Ontario.   If you were injured in Eastern Ontario, contact a knowledgeable Ottawa pedestrian injury lawyer to find out about your legal rights and compensation options.