Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents and How to Protect Your Rights

Walking should be one of the safest and simplest ways to get around. But every year, thousands of pedestrians are struck by vehicles, often with devastating consequences. For those living in or visiting Hawaii, the dangers are real: distracted drivers, poorly marked crosswalks, and other hazards make pedestrians vulnerable.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be left with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and uncertainty about your future. Understanding what causes these crashes and how to protect your legal rights is the first step toward recovery.

At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we’re here to help injured pedestrians get justice. If you’ve been hurt, don’t wait.

Call us today for a free, no-obligation first consultation at 808-746-7729.

The Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents don’t “just happen.” Most are caused by preventable mistakes or reckless behavior behind the wheel. Here are some of the leading causes:

1. Distracted Driving

Smartphones, GPS devices, and even in-car entertainment systems take drivers’ eyes and attention off the road. A momentary glance at a screen can result in tragedy if a driver fails to see a pedestrian crossing the street.

2. Failure to Yield at Crosswalks

Hawaii law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks, but many drivers either fail to see pedestrians or choose to disregard their right of way.

3. Speeding

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time for pedestrians and increases the severity of injuries in a collision. In residential areas or near schools, speeding can be especially dangerous.

4. Driving Under the Influence

Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Sadly, DUI-related pedestrian crashes continue to take lives each year.

5. Poor Visibility

Low light, rain, or poorly lit streets can make it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians, especially if they’re wearing dark clothing.

6. Left-Hand Turns

Drivers making left turns are often focused on oncoming traffic and fail to check crosswalks for pedestrians.

The Impact of Pedestrian Accidents

Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no airbags, seatbelts, or metal frames to protect them. When a vehicle strikes a person, even at low speeds, the injuries can be catastrophic:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Severe lacerations and disfigurement

These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work. In the most tragic cases, pedestrian accidents result in wrongful death.

Your Rights as a Pedestrian in Hawaii

If you’ve been hit by a car in Hawaii, it’s important to know your rights. Drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and watch for pedestrians. When they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for the harm they cause.

You May Be Entitled to Compensation For:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Wrongful death damages (for families who have lost a loved one)

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the pedestrian. That’s why having an experienced pedestrian accident attorney on your side is so important.

How to Protect Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident

The steps you take after an accident can make a big difference in your health and your legal case.

1. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor. Some serious conditions, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately.

2. Call the Police

An official police report can provide key evidence for your claim.

3. Gather Evidence

If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle that hit you. Obtain the names and contact information of the driver and any witnesses.

4. Don’t Talk to the Driver’s Insurance Company Alone

Insurance adjusters may pressure you into giving a statement or accepting a quick settlement. Speak with an attorney first to protect your rights.

5. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The sooner you call a lawyer, the sooner they can start investigating your case, preserving evidence, and handling communication with the insurance companies.

Why Should You Choose Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner?

At Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner, we’ve spent decades helping injured people across Hawaii rebuild their lives. We understand the pain and uncertainty you’re facing, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

When you choose us, you get:

✔ Experienced Legal Representation – We know how to handle complex pedestrian accident claims and fight for the compensation you deserve.

✔ Personalized Attention – Every case is different. We’ll listen to your story and develop a strategy tailored to your needs.

✔ No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing out of pocket. We only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

Call Us Today for a Free Consultation WIth Our Team of Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait. Evidence can disappear quickly, and Hawaii law limits the time you have to file a claim.

Call Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner now at 808-746-7729 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

We’ll fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to heal and move forward.