Improving pedestrian safety is not always an easy prospect, particularly in cases where pedestrian safety issues arise from poor infrastructure and other factors that require authorities to invest significant time and planning. Also challenging, though, is addressing safety issues rooted in poor decision-making on the part of both drivers and pedestrians.
Here in New Jersey, a pilot program aimed at increasing public education for both motorists and pedestrians has apparently been successful in reducing pedestrian accidents in Jersey City, Newark, Woodbridge and Hackettstown. A pilot program used in each of these locations made use of information cards, warnings, signs, and increased ticketing at high-risk intersections with an eye toward reducing the number of pedestrian accidents. Interestingly, the approach worked.
As part of the pilot program, law enforcement officers issued a total of 1,580 warnings and 1,733 summonses for both motorists and pedestrians. Needless to say, compliance with safety rules is not only an issue for motorists, but also for pedestrians as well. One important point to point out with respect to pedestrian accidents is that, while pedestrians have the right to be compensated for injuries they suffer in an accident, their damages award can be reduced in cases where they contribute to their own injuries.
Regardless of the specific circumstances of the case, pedestrians can always benefit from working with an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure they are fairly compensated for their injuries. This is especially important given the fact that pedestrians are at risk of suffering catastrophic injuries such as permanent brain damage or paralysis that can result in astronomical medical bills.