Understanding Pedestrian Right of Way

According to the State of New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, there is a disproportionate number of pedestrian injury crashes and fatalities in the Garden State compared to the nation as a whole. Pedestrian safety is a two-way street. Drivers must stop for pedestrians at crosswalks and pedestrian must observe traffic signs and signals located at intersections. As a pedestrian it is important that you understand your right of way.

Under New Jersey law, motorists must always stop for pedestrians in a marked crosswalk. Failure to do so may incur one or more of the following penalties:

• Two points on your driver’s license.
• A fine of $200 plus court fees.
• 15 days of community service.
• Driver’s insurance surcharges.

Motorists who are about to make a right turn must yield if there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk. The motorist should wait until the pedestrian reaches the other side of the road, or median if there is one, before proceeding.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Sometimes negligent drivers are to blame for pedestrian accidents. When this happens, these are some of the most common causes:

• The motorist fails to yield to a pedestrian.
• The motorist is not obeying the posted speed limit.
• The motorist is distracted by texting, talking on the phone, eating etc.

What to Do if you are Injured by a Motorist on a Crosswalk

Traffic-related pedestrian injuries can be serious and even fatal. Common injuries include:

• Leg and hip injuries: These are common when the pedestrian is hit by the bumper and hood of the car.
• Head injuries: If the car is driving fast and the pedestrian in thrown, severe head injuries may result.
• Internal injuries: Impact may cause injury to blood vessels, which may lead to amputation.

If a driver fails to yield when a pedestrian is crossing a crosswalk, this evidence can be used to show that the driver is liable. If you are a pedestrian who has been hit by a motorist while you were on a crosswalk, you may be entitled to recover compensation.

If you are a victim of a pedestrian accident due to a negligent driver in Princeton, New Jersey, you will need legal help to build your case to prove that the driver is at fault. At Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. we have an experienced team of personal injury attorneys who are dedicated to aiding our clients prove fault and successfully claim damages for injuries sustained. Contact us today at (609) 240-0040 to find out how we may be able to help you.