Pedestrian accidents in Austin are becoming far too common, especially as the city continues to grow and traffic congestion worsens. If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, truck, or motorcycle while walking, you may be dealing with severe injuries, lost income, and overwhelming medical bills. A skilled Austin pedestrian accident lawyer can help you fight back and recover compensation for the harm you’ve suffered.
Texas law protects pedestrians just like any other road user. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to yield the right of way, speed through intersections, or ignore traffic signals. The aftermath of a pedestrian accident is often catastrophic; broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or even wrongful death. If you’re in this situation, legal action is more than an option, it’s a necessity.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Austin
The roads around the University of Texas, Downtown, South Congress, and East Austin are hotspots for pedestrian accidents. But these incidents can happen anywhere, and they’re often the result of driver negligence.
Here are the most common causes:
- Distracted driving (texting or using a phone)
- Speeding in residential or urban areas
- Failing to yield at crosswalks or stop signs
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Poor visibility or inadequate street lighting
Chart: Pedestrian Accident Hotspots in Austin
| Location | Primary Risk Factor | Time of Day Most Accidents Occur |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Austin | Heavy foot and vehicle traffic | Evening Rush Hour |
| South Congress Avenue | Tourists, poor visibility | Nighttime |
| Riverside Drive | High-speed traffic | Morning Commute |
| UT Austin Campus Area | Student crossings, buses | Afternoon |
| North Lamar & Rundberg | Poor signage, speeding | Evening |
Knowing these hotspots can help residents and visitors stay alert—but when drivers fail to use caution, prevention isn’t always possible.
What Should You Do After a Pedestrian Accident?
If you’ve been struck by a vehicle, prioritize your safety and medical care first. However, taking the right legal steps early on is just as critical. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 immediately – Ensure police and emergency medical responders are dispatched.
- Document the scene – If you can, take photos of the area, your injuries, and the vehicle involved.
- Get contact information – Gather names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- Seek medical care – Even if you feel fine, internal injuries are common.
- Avoid speaking to the insurance company without legal counsel – Their goal is to minimize payouts.
- Contact an experienced Austin pedestrian accident attorney – Time is critical, and evidence fades quickly.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
The human body isn’t built to withstand the force of a moving vehicle. Pedestrian accident injuries are often serious, requiring long-term care and rehabilitation. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head trauma and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Lacerations and soft tissue injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Psychological trauma, including PTSD
Table: Average Costs of Recovery for Common Pedestrian Injuries
| Injury Type | Average Medical Cost | Average Time Off Work |
| Broken Leg or Arm | $15,000 – $25,000 | 4 to 8 weeks |
| Spinal Cord Injury | $250,000 – $1 million+ | 6 months to lifelong |
| TBI | $100,000 – $3 million+ | 3 months to permanent |
| Lacerations (Severe) | $5,000 – $20,000 | 1 to 3 weeks |
| Internal Organ Damage | $50,000 – $500,000+ | 6 to 12 weeks |
These costs don’t include non-economic damages like pain and suffering, mental anguish, or reduced quality of life—which a qualified attorney can help you recover.
What Damages Can You Recover?
A dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer in Austin will pursue both economic and non-economic damages on your behalf. These may include:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Ongoing rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Future medical expenses
- In wrongful death cases, funeral and burial costs
Statute of Limitations in Texas
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to recover damages, so it’s critical to act fast.
If the victim is a minor or if the injury was discovered later (such as internal bleeding or TBI), some exceptions may apply. An attorney can help determine how the law applies in your specific case.
Why Choose Loncar Lyon Jenkins?
Loncar Lyon Jenkins has earned a reputation for fighting relentlessly on behalf of injury victims across Texas. With over 35 years of experience, we bring the resources, expertise, and courtroom strength needed to challenge insurance companies and negligent drivers.
When you work with us, you get:
- A free, no-obligation consultation
- No fees unless we win your case
- Investigative resources to gather strong evidence
- Access to expert witnesses when needed
- Skilled negotiators and trial lawyers
Service Areas Around Austin
Our pedestrian accident legal services are available in:
- Downtown Austin
- East Austin
- North Lamar
- Travis Heights
- West Lake Hills
- Round Rock
- Pflugerville
- Cedar Park
- Kyle
- Buda
- Georgetown
- Leander
We’re also proud to serve surrounding communities throughout Travis County, Williamson County, and Hays County.
What to Expect in Your Free Consultation
Your first meeting with our legal team is pressure-free. We’ll:
- Review your accident details
- Evaluate your injuries and financial losses
- Explain your rights and possible next steps
- Discuss potential case value and timeline
All consultations are confidential, and there is no obligation to move forward if you decide not to.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
Being hit by a car is traumatic, but you don’t have to go through recovery and legal action alone. Let an Austin pedestrian accident lawyer from Loncar Lyon Jenkins fight for your rights. Our team is ready to investigate your case, deal with insurance companies, and help you pursue the compensation you need to heal.
Reach out today for your free consultation. Let’s hold negligent drivers accountable and make Austin’s streets safer for everyone.
