Hitting a Pedestrian Outside of a Crosswalk: Who’s at Fault? Can Car Insurance Be Claimed?
(Photo Credit: freepik)
Hitting a pedestrian on a crosswalk is clearly against the law, but what if you hit someone crossing outside of a crosswalk? In this case, who would be at fault?
Today, we’ll delve into the laws around vehicle-pedestrian accidents and the essential car insurance claim conditions every driver should know to ensure safe driving and a thorough understanding of car insurance coverage.
Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Pedestrian?
Before discussing car insurance claims, let’s first understand what the law says about vehicle-pedestrian accidents to encourage careful driving.
Hitting a Pedestrian Who Runs in Front of a Car
If a person suddenly runs in front of a car, causing the driver to be unable to stop in time, the pedestrian is generally at fault. However, certain types of car insurance, such as comprehensive coverage, may cover the damages under specified conditions.
- Hitting a Pedestrian Crossing Outside of a Crosswalk
In this case, the fault is considered shared. The driver is responsible according to the law, and car insurance will provide coverage for both the driver and the pedestrian involved, within the policy’s limits.
Hitting a Pedestrian Standing in the Roadway
Even if a pedestrian is standing in the middle of the road, the driver must still exercise caution. In such situations, car insurance will generally cover the driver. However, if a lawsuit arises, the details of the incident would need to be thoroughly reviewed.
How Does Car Insurance Cover Damages?
- Coverage for the Other Party
If a driver hits a pedestrian, resulting in injury or death, car insurance will cover damages exceeding the basic government insurance (P.A. coverage) according to the policy limits. Comprehensive insurance (Class 1) generally provides the highest coverage for both personal injury and property damage.
- Coverage for the Driver
For policyholders, car insurance covers medical expenses, property damage, compensation in the event of death, and bail costs if the driver faces legal charges, all within the policy’s specified limits.
Drive Carefully to Avoid Risky Situations
Staying alert on the road is essential. Safe driving not only reduces the risk of accidents but also minimizes the need to frequently rely on car insurance for damages.
Claim your free car valuation today!
Read More: What is Contributory Negligence? Can You Claim Insurance?
Looking for a car appraisal? You can contact us for a free car valuation within 24 hours…
