Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Lawyers: New Statistics Are Cause for Concern

A disturbing trend is emerging on the streets of Philadelphia. According to law enforcement, 17 fatal pedestrian accidents involving walkers, joggers and bikers have already taken place in 2016, a 55 percent increase over the same time period last year. Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyers and law enforcement officials believe distractions posed by cell phones are often to blame.

Pedestrians who text, talk, or browse the Internet while walking may not notice when a crosswalk signal has changed. Even with the right of way, pedestrians must check for oncoming traffic in both directions. That is because a distracted driver may approach an intersection without regard for the traffic light’s color. In the time it takes to view a text message, a pedestrian can be struck and fatally injured.

The statistics provided by the Philadelphia Police Department also show that fatal accidents involving a pedestrian often go unsolved. Of the aforementioned 17 fatal pedestrian accidents this year, drivers fled the scene of the crash on six occasions. Three victims were on foot, one victim was riding a motorcycle, and two victims were riding bicycles when they were struck by a passing motorist. Only two of the six hit-and-run accidents in Philadelphia this year have resulted in an arrest, according to law enforcement.

Philadelphia personal injury lawyers note that even when a driver is unsure of whether they have struck a pedestrian, they are obligated to pull over and investigate. If a pedestrian has indeed made contact with a car, no matter how seemingly minor the collision, the driver of the car should render aid and call 911. Failure to take these steps can give rise to criminal charges against a driver.

Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Fight for The Injured

Given their distinct size advantage, motor vehicles should always yield to pedestrians. Unfortunately, many drivers will fail to take their responsibility seriously. If you or a loved one was struck and injured by a car or truck while walking or riding a bicycle, contact Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law. Call us today at 215-426-4493 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation at our offices conveniently located in Center City Philadelphia and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, where we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and South Jersey including Philadelphia County, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Chester County, Delaware County, Camden County, Burlington County, and Atlantic County.