Pedestrian Injuries During Inclement Weather
Virginia's unpredictable weather—rain, snow, sleet, and fog—makes roadways dangerous for everyone. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable when visibility drops and road conditions worsen. Too often, these scenarios lead to accidents that cause severe injuries or worse. The Virginia State Crime Commission analyzed Virginia traffic crash fatality data between 2017 and 2022. Data revealed 5,309 individuals were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes during this time period, which included 4,464 (84%) drivers or passengers, 771 (15%) pedestrians, and 74 (1%) bicyclists.
The last thing you want is to become another statistic. Protecting yourself requires vigilance and taking ownership of your own safety by committing to staying visible, avoiding hazards, and making safe decisions.
The Key to Avoiding Accidents
During inclement weather, assume drivers can’t see you until you make yourself visible. Heavy rain, snow, or fog reduces a driver’s ability to see beyond their headlights. For pedestrians, this means taking extra steps to stand out.
Wear reflective clothing or gear, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Even a small reflective patch or LED accessory can catch a car's headlights, giving drivers the critical seconds needed to avoid an accident. Dark clothing is a liability during bad weather; it blends into the gloom, making you a nearly invisible target.
Stick to designated crosswalks and ensure drivers are aware of your presence. Make deliberate eye contact before stepping into the street, even if you have the right of way. Don’t assume drivers will stop; wet roads and poor visibility often mean slower reaction times.
The Chain Reaction of Negligence
Inclement weather amplifies the risks on Virginia’s roads. Drivers face slick surfaces, black ice, and obscured markings, often leading to reckless behavior or mistakes. This chain reaction puts pedestrians directly in harm’s way.
To minimize your risk exposure, walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If no sidewalks exist, face oncoming traffic and keep a wide berth from the road. Shoulders can be especially dangerous during rain or snow, as drivers swerving to avoid puddles or ice might unknowingly drift closer to pedestrians.
The Right of Way Won’t Protect You
Drivers have a legal obligation to yield to pedestrians, but the reality on the road can be very different during inclement weather. Vehicles take longer to stop on wet or icy pavement even at reduced speeds. The right of way won’t protect you from the physical harm of being hit.
When crossing streets, choose intersections with clear visibility and traffic signals. Avoid crossing near curves or hills where drivers might not see you until it’s too late. If conditions are severe, wait for a wide gap in traffic to cross, even if you have a signal or crosswalk.
Your Next Steps
Even when pedestrians take every precaution, accidents still occur—often because drivers fail to account for weather conditions. Virginia law requires drivers to exercise caution and adapt their speed during adverse weather, but holding them accountable after a pedestrian accident requires evidence and swift action.
If you’re hit by a car, start protecting your rights immediately:
Document the Scene - Take photos of the road, your injuries, and the vehicle involved.
Gather Information - Collect the driver’s contact details, insurance information, and statements from witnesses.
File a Police Report - This creates an official record, which will be crucial for any personal injury claim.
Seek Medical Attention - Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated. Hidden injuries, like concussions or internal damage, may worsen without treatment.
Personal injury cases hinge on demonstrating that the driver’s negligence caused your injuries. Weather conditions can complicate this process, but a strong legal advocate can make the difference between a denied claim and a fair settlement. Blaszkow Legal, PLLC fights to ensure victims are compensated for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Call us at (703) 879-5910 to discuss your personal injury case today. Let us hold negligent drivers accountable while you focus on recovery.