Why Car Accidents Surge Near Pittsburgh Universities During the School Year
The city of Pittsburgh comes alive during the school year. With students on campuses like the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, and Duquesne University, the energy of the city skyrockets. But along with the excitement of student life comes an unfortunate reality – car accidents near these universities can spike once the academic year begins.
High pedestrian traffic
One of the biggest reasons for the uptick in car accidents is the number of pedestrians near campus areas. Imagine Forbes Avenue or Fifth Avenue during peak class times. It’s a sea of students walking to and from class, dorms, or local hangouts. These areas, central to the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon, can become congested with vehicles and pedestrians. Drivers trying to navigate these crowded streets face constant distractions, including students darting across crosswalks, groups congregating near bus stops, and cyclists weaving through traffic.
Even the most cautious driver may have trouble staying focused in such a chaotic environment. All it takes is one moment of inattention to cause a serious car accident. Some hot spots for pedestrian congestion include Forbes Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and Boulevard of the Allies. The mix of cars, buses, and pedestrians often leads to accidents, especially during rush hour.
Distracted driving
Even though pedestrian congestion is a major factor in accidents, distracted driving also plays a role. Many drivers near Pittsburgh’s universities and colleges are young and inexperienced. According to a 2023 study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), young drivers are involved in a disproportionately high number of crashes.
Young drivers are more likely to engage in distracted driving behaviors, like texting while driving, scrolling through social media, using GPS apps, or talking to passengers in the car. When you combine distracted driving with crowded campus streets, the risk of an accident rises. A split-second glance at a phone can lead to a rear-end collision or a pedestrian accident.
Remember, distracted driving has real and devastating consequences. At Carmody & Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we’ve represented clients who were hit by distracted drivers and suffered injuries like broken bones, concussions, and long-term disabilities. These accidents often lead to significant medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Low visibility at night
Another factor contributing to car accidents near Pittsburgh’s universities is the increased risk at night. Once the sun sets, visibility decreases, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Nighttime is also when students are likely to be out and about, heading to off-campus housing, attending social events, or exploring Pittsburgh’s nightlife. Areas around South Oakland and Squirrel Hill, popular neighborhoods for student housing, become accident hotspots after dark. Common nighttime accidents include pedestrian accidents, rear-end collisions, and cyclist accidents. We often advise our clients to take extra precautions when driving near campuses at night. Simple steps like reducing your speed, staying off your phone, and watching for pedestrians can make all the difference.
Inexperienced drivers
Many drivers near Pittsburgh’s universities and colleges are young and inexperienced and still learning the rules of the road. First-year students who bring cars to campus often deal with unfamiliar streets, heavy traffic, and confusing intersections. This lack of experience can lead to missed traffic signals, failure to yield to pedestrians, and improper lane changes.
Even a minor driving mistake can have serious consequences, especially in high-traffic areas like Oakland or the South Side. Inexperienced drivers may also struggle with Pittsburgh’s unique layout, which includes steep hills and sharp turns, narrow streets, and unpredictable weather conditions. At Carmody & Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we’ve helped numerous clients injured in accidents caused by inexperienced drivers. We understand how frustrating it can be to suffer injuries because someone was careless behind the wheel.
How can your lawyers help if I’m injured in a Pittsburgh car accident?
Dealing with a car accident near one of Pittsburgh’s universities can be challenging to get through, especially if you’re trying to handle injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies. That’s where our car accident attorneys come in. At Carmody & Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we’re dedicated to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s how we can assist you.
We gather evidence, review police reports, and interview witnesses to build a strong case on your behalf. Insurance companies may try to minimize your payout, but we fight for fair compensation for your injuries and damages. And, if necessary, we’re always prepared to take your case to trial to get the best possible outcome.
Our Pittsburgh car accidents are here to help if an accident happens – but prevention is always the best strategy. Following are a few tips on staying safe near Pittsburgh’s campuses.
- If you’re a driver, stay alert and avoid distractions. Slow down in congested areas. Be extra cautious at night and in poor weather conditions.
- If you’re a pedestrian, use designated crosswalks and follow all traffic signals. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Also, avoid using headphones or looking at your phone while walking.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident near the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon, or Duquesne University, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Carmody & Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from dealing with insurance companies to fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule your free initial consultation today.