When pedestrian accidents occur, they can have disastrous consequences.

Virtually everyone is a pedestrian at times, even when you're just walking to your car. Most pedestrian deaths occur in cities (73%) and at places other than intersections (70%), according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Individuals can be struck by negligent drivers or cause the pedestrian accident themselves by failing to check traffic.

The most common types of pedestrian accidents may include factors such as driver negligence, distraction on the part of the pedestrian, or those in wheelchairs or strollers. While most pedestrian accidents happen at intersections, the most deadly ones typically take place on the open road, where higher speeds are involved.

As with any injury, the most important thing to do if you are involved in a pedestrian accident is get prompt medical attention (should you require it), but otherwise stay at the scene and call the police. Do not make statements to drivers, insurers, or anyone else involved, and get the contact information of witnesses.

If you or someone close to you has been injured while walking near a roadway, it's in your best interests to seek out legal help as soon as possible. Below, you'll find links to a number of pedestrian accident resources on roadway safety, making an insurance claim, and getting the legal help you need.

See Pedestrian Accidents FAQ and Pedestrian Accidents on Interstate Highways to learn more.

• American Traffic Safety Services Association - An international roadway safety organization representing the highway safety industry.
• CDC: Alcohol Involvement in Pedestrian Fatalities - A study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighting the involvement of alcohol in fatal pedestrian accidents.
• Insurance Institute for Highway Safety / Highway Loss Data Institute: Pedestrians and Bicyclists - Information about pedestrian accidents and deaths, with fatality statistics, state laws, and status reports.
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Information about automobile and child safety product recalls, safety issues such as distracted driving, and auto research.
• NHTSA's Pedestrian Safety Page - Information on how to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities, including research, statistics, and educational activities for children.
• Federal Highway Safety Administration's Pedestrian & Bicycle Safety Page - A collection of facts, tips, and data on pedestrian accidents and safety; with the most recently available statistics.
• Safe Kids USA - Pedestrian Safety - Resources on how to keep children safe on the road; with information specific to different childrens' age groups.
• Review of Studies on Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety: 1991-2007 (NHTSA) - A comprehensive summary of multiple studies involving pedestrian and bicyclist safety from 1991 to 2007.
• Pedestrian Safety Fact Sheet (CDC) - Facts about pedestrian accidents and safety "at a glance," with links to additional safety programs.
• National Center for Safe Routes to School - Educational and advocacy group to advance safety programs for children in regard to safe walking and biking routes to schools.

Have You Been Injured in a Pedestrian Accident? Get Legal Help

When a motor vehicle makes contact with a human being, the results can be devastating. The last thing you want to do is deal with hospital bills, insurance companies, and lawyers. But if you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, you'll want a strong advocate on your side. Don't wait, get in touch with a local car accident attorney today.