Walking is a healthy activity, but it also comes with risks in Connecticut and elsewhere. According to a recent article in the Connecticut Mirror, the state’s road designs put pedestrians at risk. The data shows that 73 pedestrians were struck and killed in 2022 (the highest number since 1988), and another 53 died in 2023. As of April 16, 2024, there were 21 pedestrian deaths, which is two more than the previous two years at that time.
While those numbers reflect all pedestrian fatalities, crosswalks are critical to pedestrian safety. The state has specific regulations to protect pedestrians at crosswalks. In short, pedestrians have the right of way at the curb or within a crosswalk. Drivers must slow down or stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely.
New hand signals for walkers
As of October 1, 2021, there are now rules for pedestrians to signal their intent to cross the street, requiring drivers to slow down or stop. Drivers may now see pedestrians signal their intent to cross the street by extending their arm outward, pointing in the direction they intend to go. This simple gesture helps drivers recognize that the pedestrian intends to cross and prompts them to yield. This type of clear communication benefits everyone on the road.
In addition to signaling their intent to cross, pedestrians can also use the following hand signals for other actions:
- Stop signal: Extend the arm horizontally, palm facing forward, to indicate that you are stopping or slowing down.
- Right turn signal: Extend the arm straight out to the side, parallel to the ground, to signal a right turn.
- Left turn signal: Extend the arm straight out to the side and point toward the left, indicating a left turn.
The state introduced these signals to enhance communication between pedestrians and drivers, promoting safety on the road.
Driver obligations and good habits
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and exercise caution to avoid hitting pedestrians. Motorists must also stop when school crossing guards in crosswalks and elsewhere ask them to do so. Along with following the speed limits, driving sober and avoiding distractions, drivers should also look for pedestrians, especially in low-light areas like suburban neighborhoods.
Victims’ families could have a valid claim
Not all pedestrian deaths are the fault of drivers. Still, many pedestrian deaths are due to driver error or poor road design (often lacking crosswalks) and maintenance. If a family member was tragically lost in a pedestrian accident in a crosswalk or elsewhere, this law firm can help families determine if they have a valid claim and then guide them through the wrongful death lawsuit process.
