Pedestrian deaths and sharing Maryland roads

Recently, two pedestrian deaths were caused by car accidents in Maryland.

Whether you are driving or are a pedestrian, you must follow the rules of the road.  Pedestrians have the right of way!

Pedestrian Deaths and Maryland Law

Under Maryland’s law, a pedestrian must obey all traffic control signals at an intersection.  At any other place, a pedestrian has the right of way.

Right of way in a crosswalk

Yes, you have the right of way in a crosswalk.  But, you have to follow the rules of the road.  You cannot cross against the light, and you cannot dart out in front of a car that would be unable to stop in time.

No, you do not always have the right of way when you are not in a crosswalk.

No, you may not cross diagonally most of the time.

If the traffic light allows for diagonal crossing, you may; otherwise, it is up/down and to the left/right for pedestrians.

Sidewalks

Yes, you have to use the sidewalk.  If there is no sidewalk, then you must walk on shoulder or as close to the edge of the road as possible.  Unlike bicyclists, who must ride with the flow of traffic, pedestrians must walk facing the traffic.

Pedestrians Death and Contributory Negligence

In Maryland, if you are found partially at fault for your accident, then you will be denied compensation.  Maryland is a contributory negligence state.

A pedestrian walking on the wrong side of the road and hit by a car, could be denied compensation if a judge or jury found the pedestrian partially at fault.

Schedule a free Carroll County Auto Accident Attorney consultation

If you or a family member has been injured because of someone else’s careless or negligent acts, then call Albers & Associates to schedule a free Carroll County car accident lawyer consultation.  Carroll County Auto Accident Attorney Ross W. Albers is a former Maryland insurance adjuster that knows what you’re up against.

Albers & Associates offers contingency fee arrangements: No Recovery. No Fee. No Expense.

If your car collision injury prevents you from coming to our office in Westminster, Maryland, then we will come to you!  Evening and weekend appointments are available, too.