Pedestrian Rights and Safety Laws in Oklahoma: What You Need to Know

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that every year, thousands of pedestrians are killed on roadways. The human body is no match for a car, and when a driver is speeding or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they put pedestrians at the highest risk of being hit. When a vehicle crashes into a body, catastrophic injuries and death are usually the outcome. 

Drivers have a responsibility to operate their vehicles safely so that they do not cause an accident. Pedestrians, too, have a responsibility to stay safe and not become a road hazard.

If you were injured by a reckless driver, then you may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. To learn more, you can discuss your injury accident with an experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident injury attorney at the Putnam Law Office.

Understanding Pedestrian Rights and Responsibilities in Oklahoma

Drivers, pedestrians, and all road users have rights and responsibilities. First and foremost, everyone should respect and follow traffic laws that are meant to improve safety.

Motorists must respect pedestrians’ right of way and also keep an eye out for pedestrians who may be in a crosswalk. Motorists should make sure that they are alert and focused when driving so that they can spot pedestrians and avoid hitting them. In crowded areas where there is high foot traffic, motorists should also slow down to avoid a collision with anyone. Should an accident happen, motorists who are able and unencumbered by a serious injury must call 9-1-1 to alert the authorities of the accident and have first responders come to the scene to render aid to those parties that are injured.

By contrast, Oklahoma City pedestrian laws say that for pedestrians to stay safe, they have to understand where they can walk. For instance, pedestrians do not always have the right of way on streets. Pedestrians must obey the traffic signals at intersections, and when entering the street, only do so in a designated crosswalk. Where no crosswalk is available, then they must cross from the right angle of the curb. If entering the roadway to walk, they must face traffic. It is also illegal to throw items off of bridges or to jump off bridges and overpasses.

Despite both the responsibilities and duties that motorists and pedestrians have, drivers are still held to a higher standard. This means that a driver is expected to exercise extra care and not come in contact with a pedestrian due to the extensive harm that a car can inflict on the human body.

Speak to an Attorney at the Putnam Law Office Today

If you were following the rules of the road as a pedestrian and you were hit by a car, then you should not delay in contacting an attorney. You may be able to file a personal injury claim and obtain compensation for the totality of your damages, such as the medical costs you incurred for your injuries or the missed wages from time away from work that you were burdened with.

For help after a pedestrian accident, and to take legal action, please call the Putnam Law Office to schedule a free consultation at 405-724-7701.