When Is a Pedestrian At Fault for a Car Accident in Kentucky?

Some people assume drivers are always to blame for pedestrian accidents, but this isn’t necessarily true. So, when is a pedestrian at fault for a car accident in Kentucky?

In recent years, pedestrian accidents have been on the rise in KY, with nearly 1,400 occurring in 2023. Drivers cause many in the Bluegrass State.

However, pedestrians are also sometimes at fault. Here are several instances where they might be responsible.

They Ignore Traffic Signals While Using Crosswalks

In Kentucky, pedestrians must cross streets at crosswalks whenever possible. Failure to do so is a leading answer to the question, “When is a pedestrian at fault for a car accident in Kentucky?”

People using crosswalks maintain the right of way, and drivers must yield to them. At the same time, those walking must also pay attention to traffic signals.

For example, they should remain where they are if traffic signals tell them not to cross streets. Otherwise, they could walk right into traffic before unsuspecting drivers notice.

They Fail To Yield to Vehicles When Crossing Streets Outside of Crosswalks

Generally speaking, people must make every effort to use marked crosswalks. However, they may encounter situations where they don’t have easy access.

This could lead to people receiving citations for jaywalking even if they aren’t involved in accidents.

They might also commit right-of-way violations if they mistakenly believe drivers must yield to them. In many cases, drivers do not have to yield to those walking outside of crosswalks, and these people could be liable for any crashes.

They Walk Out Into the Streets Without Checking for Traffic

People learn to look both ways before crossing streets at a young age. Therefore, it’s a good idea to remain vigilant about this, regardless of one’s age or experience crossing streets.

When people step out into traffic without checking first and cause pedestrian-related collisions, the blame usually falls on them. Drivers will argue that these people didn’t give them enough time to stop.

They Cross Streets While Distracted

Many people are familiar with distracted driving, but did you know distracted walking has also become a problem?

Some pedestrians walk around wearing headphones while playing on their smartphones or fiddling with other devices. These activities sometimes cause them to cross streets without paying enough attention to the traffic around them.

This makes distracted walking another answer to the question, “When is a pedestrian at fault for a car accident in Kentucky?”

Was a Pedestrian At Fault for Your Car Accident in Kentucky? Call Us for Help

Many answers to the question, “When is a pedestrian at fault for a car accident in Kentucky?” exist. If you suspect one caused a recent crash you were in, schedule a free consultation with Regard Law Group, PLLC. Contact us at 859-281-1318 or fill out this brief form to set one up.

Pedestrian Accident FAQs

Find answers to commonly asked questions below.

What Happens If a Pedestrian Causes a Motor Vehicle Accident?

If a pedestrian causes a motor vehicle accident, they could be liable for damages. They may need to cover medical bills, property damage expenses, and other costs from a crash.

Is a Pedestrian Blamed for a Car Accident Still Entitled to Compensation?

A pedestrian blamed for a car accident may still be entitled to compensation. Kentucky’s pure comparative fault laws allow those partially to blame for crashes to still recover compensation.

How Can Pedestrians Avoid Causing Auto Crashes?

Pedestrians can avoid causing auto crashes by crossing streets at crosswalks and abiding by traffic signals.