New Jersey Fatal Pedestrian Accidents Lawyer

In New Jersey, the number of fatal pedestrian accidents is alarming. The Garden State is ranked fifth in the country for pedestrian fatalities. During a three-year period, from 2010 to 2013, more than 600 pedestrians were killed, with 71 of those deaths taking place alongside roadways and highways.

While 27 percent of the pedestrian deaths involved the presence of alcohol or drugs, the major contributing factors in the fatalities were poor roadway lighting and the absence of sidewalks. Information released by the Department of Transportation suggests lighting could indeed be a significant issue, as 52 of the 71 pedestrian fatalities occurred between dusk and dawn. By contrast, there were 19 deaths during daylight hours.

Lighting is not the only factor that needs to be considered in keeping pedestrians safe. Often, the way roads are constructed contributes to a dangerous situation, which can then lead to accidents. For instance, vehicle drivers who opt to pass another car on the shoulder of the road, place any pedestrians on the shoulder in danger. The lack of crosswalks further adds to unsafe road conditions.

As of 2010, New Jersey implemented the Stop and Stayed Stopped Law. The law requires drivers to stop and remain stopped for pedestrians crossing the road in designated crosswalks. In addition, drivers should yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the road at an intersection within an unmarked crosswalk. Nonetheless, according to data from the New Jersey State Police, between 2015 and 2017 approximately 450 pedestrians were killed in accidents.

Unfortunately, many drivers do not pay attention to pedestrians and are driving while distracted, and/or driving intoxicated.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrians hit by a vehicle may suffer severe, life-threatening injuries or death. The injuries most often include:

• Death
• Herniated spinal discs
• Acute organ damage
• Severed, amputated body parts
• Nerve damage
• Internal bleeding
• Skull fracture, traumatic brain injury
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Torn ligaments, muscles
• Severe laceration

If a loved one has been involved in a fatal pedestrian accident, contact the experienced fatal pedestrian accident attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm.