Safety Precautions for Little Rock Pedestrians

Collisions between pedestrians and motorists are often devastating, frequently resulting in life-changing or even fatal injuries. To help avoid such accidents, Little Rock has implemented roadway infrastructure and traffic regulations designed to protect pedestrians and drivers. Traffic signs and signals are in place to guide safe interaction and help road users navigate intersections or cross busy streets. However, these tools are only effective when pedestrians and drivers understand and follow the laws.

As a pedestrian, you are especially vulnerable in a crash due to your lack of physical protection. Being aware of and following safety precautions for Little Rock pedestrians could help prevent accidents and protect your legal rights if one does occur.

Pedestrian Safety Measures

Similar to motorists, pedestrians in Little Rock are required to follow traffic laws and signals to ensure their safety. According to state law, pedestrians are required to wait for a green light or walk sign before crossing at a marked crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, pedestrians are expected to yield to oncoming traffic and only cross when it is safe to do so. Several other additional precautions could help prevent accidents, including:

• Wearing bright or light clothing, especially when walking in poor light or after dark
• Walking on sidewalks whenever available
• Crossing roads at street corners or crosswalks when possible
• Following the rules of the road and obeying traffic signals
• When no sidewalks are present, walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible
• Watching for vehicles entering or exiting driveways and parking lots
• Avoiding alcohol and drugs when walking
• Avoid using a cellphone or headphones while walking near traffic

Pedestrians should remain alert at all times. Responsible behavior not only keeps you safe, but also helps drivers anticipate your actions, reducing the risk of a collision.

How Following Safety Precautions Affects a Claim for Compensation

Although drivers are legally obligated to watch for and yield to pedestrians, they are not always responsible for pedestrian accidents. For example, if a pedestrian suddenly darts into traffic or a jogger wearing dark clothing crosses the road at dusk without a crosswalk, a driver may not have enough time to react and avoid a collision.

To pursue compensation for their injuries, an injured pedestrian must show that the driver’s negligence caused their accident. When a Little Rock pedestrian fails to follow expected safety precautions, a judge or jury is unlikely to find the driver responsible for their injuries, which can significantly reduce or eliminate any compensation awarded.

Contact a Knowledgeable Little Rock Attorney to Learn More About Pedestrian Safety Precautions

In many cases, following safety precautions for Little Rock pedestrians is required under state law. These regulations are designed to ensure that everyone on the road, including drivers and pedestrians, acts responsibly. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident despite taking all necessary precautions, you may have a strong claim for compensation.

The experienced attorneys at Mays, Byrd, & O’Guinn understand the complexities of pedestrian accident claims. We could evaluate your case, help you gather essential information, and advocate for your rights throughout the entire legal claims process. You should not have to bear the financial and emotional burden of an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we could help you pursue the compensation you deserve.