Pedestrian accidents are a serious threat to public safety in Vancouver. Around 1 in 5 people killed in British Columbia car crashes are pedestrians, according to ICBC data. On average, 2,700 pedestrians are injured and 57 are killed every year in the province.
Sadly, the problem is getting worse. While the average number of pedestrian crashes has remained steady, the number of injuries and deaths from these incidents has increased each year since 2015. Therefore, while there may not have been an increase in accidents occurring, the ones that do happen are more dangerous.
As a pedestrian, you have a reasonable expectation that motorists in British Columbia will be aware of your presence and drive cautiously near you. But you can’t count on that. The personal injury lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP have put together the following tips for staying safe on the streets in Vancouver.
Top 5 Pedestrian Safety Tips
Follow these steps to protect yourself while on foot in Vancouver:
- Use sidewalks: If they are available, always walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk close to the edge of the road facing traffic.
- Cross at crosswalks and intersections: Many accidents happen when pedestrians cross roads in unexpected places. Be especially careful at intersections. Look left, then right, then left again before crossing.
- Remain visible at all times: Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing and make sure to walk in well-lit areas whenever possible.
- Don’t make assumptions: Contrary to popular belief, pedestrians don’t always have the right of way. Never assume that a car is going to stop for you. Before crossing a road, stop, make eye contact with the driver, and ensure they’re slowing down before proceeding.
- Avoid distractions: Don’t text or talk on the phone while walking on streets and in parking lots. You need to be aware of your surroundings to ensure that you can respond appropriately in an emergency.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured as a Pedestrian
If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Vancouver, take the following steps to protect your health and a potential legal claim:
- Seek medical attention. See a doctor even if you feel fine. Your medical records will be critical if you file a personal injury claim.
- Report the accident to the police. Obtain a copy of the police report.
- Get the at-fault driver’s insurance information: Get the individual’s name, address, phone number, and insurance policy number.
- Identify any witnesses. Eyewitnesses can provide valuable testimony about what happened. Make sure to get their names and contact information.
- Get photos. Documenting the accident scene can help tell the story of what happened. Make sure to include photos of your own injuries, if possible.
- Contact a Vancouver pedestrian accident lawyer right away. Your accident will have to be reported. A lawyer can help ensure that it is done in a way that protects your right to compensation.
How Can Warnett Hallen LLP Help Me?
Pedestrians often suffer significant harm when they are struck by vehicles. At Warnett Hallen LLP, we believe you should be compensated fully if you’ve been hurt.
Our Vancouver pedestrian accident lawyers can represent you throughout the entire claims process. We’ll investigate your case and provide evidence that proves the other driver’s negligence. We’ll fight for full and fair compensation that reflects all of your losses.
Let us help you get back on your feet. Contact us today for a free consultation.
