If vehicular collisions can be fatal, how much more dangerous can it be if a car hits a pedestrian who’s unprotected from crashes?
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian deaths have steadily increased in the U.S. over the past decade. Since 2010, the number of fatalities spiked by 77%. The year 2022 also saw a 40-year high of 7,508 deaths.
But more people have also recognized the need for added safety measures. A new survey by Consumer Reports found that 86% of Americans believe pedestrian detection technology can reduce the likelihood of people being hit or killed by automobiles. 72% of Americans also said they want their next car to have pedestrian detection technology.
Consumer Report’s study comes after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently proposed a plan to make automatic emergency braking technology mandatory on all new automobiles.
The Cost of Pedestrian Injuries and Deaths
Collision-related deaths and injuries are on the rise. But how much does it all cost?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that fatal pedestrian motor vehicle accidents led to over $99 million in medical expenses in 2020. But in terms of pedestrian injuries, the total medical cost in 2020 hit a staggering $4.11 billion. Pedestrian injuries on average also cost $99,647 to treat.
Pedestrian injuries also led to an average work loss cost of $22,046. They also caused an average quality-of-life loss cost of $205,470 in 2020.
It’s clear that getting hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian costs much money. And that the problem will only worsen until the automotive industry addresses it. Until new automobile technologies can prevent crashes, pedestrians will continue to be at risk.
If you suffer injuries from a vehicle accident, know that a personal injury lawsuit can help secure enough compensation to pay for your medical expenses and other losses. Guidance from a legal professional can improve your chances of winning your case.
What Causes Warehouse Injuries?
When you suffer from occupational injuries, you may receive benefits from California’s workers’ compensation insurance through your employer. The policy includes medical treatment, lost wages and assistance to help you get back to work. Here are potential reasons that must have caused your injuries:
- Slipping objects stacked on high shelves
- Pallet fragments, accumulated dust, sawdust and other hazardous debris on the floor
- Failure to see an obstruction, such as spilled substances and cluttered stock items, in walkways while carrying heavy goods, using huge machinery or interacting with a co-worker
As a preventive measure, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration devised standards related to walking-working surfaces. One of the provisions requires that employers keep the cleanliness, order and sanitation of passageways, service rooms, store rooms and other surfaces at all times. Further, there should also be regular inspections and repairs to maintain the structural integrity of all floor surfaces used for work.
But sometimes, despite the most thorough precautions, work-related injuries still happen. You may end up with minor cuts and bruises or suffer from severe conditions and disfigurements. Your employer must have a list of approved health care providers to give you the cure and relief within California’s medical treatment guidelines.
about
Scott M. Blumen
Scott M. Blumen, Attorney at Law, APC offers personalized, results-focused legal help for injury and workers’ compensation cases in San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started is easy. If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, car accident, construction accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Scott Blumen Law today. Call (619) 439-1837 to discuss your situation and receive an honest assessment of your legal options.
Since 1989, Scott Blumen has helped thousands of injured individuals throughout San Diego. He is known for providing honest legal advice, straightforward communication, and experienced representation in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. As a Certified Legal Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, he offers knowledge that many firms cannot provide.
Many injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Scott Blumen is prepared to advocate for your interests throughout the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future medical care, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related losses. Every case is unique, and the available compensation depends on the facts of your claim.
California law places deadlines on filing both personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. Missing these deadlines could affect your ability to recover compensation. Contact Scott Blumen as soon as possible after an accident to discuss the time limits that apply to your case.
Yes, in certain situations. While workers’ compensation covers most work-related injuries, you may also have a separate personal injury claim if a negligent third party contributed to your accident, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another driver. Scott Blumen has experience handling cases involving both types of claims.
Although you are not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced legal representation can be extremely beneficial if your claim is delayed, denied, your benefits are disputed, or your injury is serious. Scott Blumen is a Certified Legal Specialist in California Workers’ Compensation Law and has over 30 years of experience helping injured workers.
Your health should always come first. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, report the accident if appropriate, gather photos and witness information when possible, and avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking with an attorney. Prompt legal guidance can help protect your rights.
Scott Blumen represents clients in a variety of injury-related matters, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury cases
- Car accidents
- Construction accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Brain injuries
- Wrongful death cases
- Product liability claims
Most personal injury and workers’ compensation cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. This means you generally do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf. During your consultation, Scott Blumen can explain how fees apply to your specific case.
The value of a case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and how the injury has affected your daily life. Scott Blumen provides straightforward, honest assessments rather than unrealistic promises so you know what to realistically expect.
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence or suffered an injury while performing your job, you may have a valid legal claim. Every situation is different, so the best way to determine your options is through a consultation. Call Scott Blumen Law at (619) 439-1837 to discuss your case and receive an honest evaluation.
