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Minnesota drivers not so nice on winter roads

On Behalf of | Mar 4, 2014 | Auto-Pedestrian Accidents |

Many pedestrians in and around Minneapolis would like to rely on the kindness — or “Minnesota nice-ness” — of others when the roads in the area get treacherous. But some people are just not as considerate behind the wheel as they should be. Drivers feel protected inside their vehicle and end up making hazardous decisions while driving. However, those who are outside of a car know that there are very real risks associated with dangerous driving in Minnesota, and they are often the ones who pay the price.

Pedestrians are not nearly as well protected in a crash as motorists are. If and when a pedestrian is hit by a motor vehicle, the results can be devastating. Victims can break bones, suffer a brain injury or be killed, even in minor collisions. That is why many people who have been affected by a pedestrian accident in Minnesota choose to take legal action against a negligent or reckless driver.

A reckless driver may not always be easy to identify until it is too late. That is why it can be crucial for an investigation to be completed immediately and thoroughly. In many cases, victims learn that they were hurt because of one of these types of drivers:

  • Drivers in a hurry: People who are late or trying to get somewhere quickly may speed through an intersection without taking the time to see if it is clear.
  • Distracted drivers: Someone who is focused on a phone or other distraction can end up clipping another vehicle or a pedestrian they failed to see.
  • Angry drivers: Drivers who are frustrated or mad may follow other vehicles too closely, cut other people off or take other unnecessary risks around other vehicles.

Each of these behaviors can have a dramatic effect on the safety of pedestrians because they driver is not focused on scanning the roads to watch out for others. This can be especially dangerous in winter months when the roads are much less forgiving of sharp or quick movements behind the wheel.

While some pedestrians may be able to spot these reckless drivers coming and try to avoid them, that is not always the case. In many cases, a person becomes a victim first. In these situations, injured pedestrians can speak with an attorney in order to explore their options for holding a negligent driver accountable for damages.

Source: KTTC, “Minnesota Rude running rampant on the roads,” Ali Killam, Feb. 26, 2014

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