Pedestrian accidents are growing at an alarming rate with almost six thousand fatalities and a further 137,000 people needing treatment in emergency rooms in 2017 after being hit by a motorist, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The main causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving while intoxicated
- Weather conditions
- Left-hand turns
- Improper lane use
- Quiet cars
- Pedestrians wearing dark clothes
- Failing to stop or yield to pedestrians
- Backing-up accidents
Drivers must always exercise reasonable care while operating a vehicle. If they do not and then cause an accident, they may be liable for any damages resulting from negligent or reckless driving.
If you have been injured or lost a loved one as a pedestrian and suspect another’s negligence to be the cause, you may be entitled to compensation. Contacting a personal injury lawyer with experience in pedestrian accidents is a good first step to determine how to proceed with your claim.
Tips to Prevent Auto-Pedestrian Accidents
Now that we have a better understanding of the main causes of pedestrian accidents; it is essential to consider what you can do to reduce the risk of accidents while walking or cycling in public places. Improve your safety by:
- Increasing your visibility by wearing reflective clothing or using a torch when it is dark or foggy can help motorists see you.
- Refrain from using earbuds while walking as they can make you less aware of what is going on around you and leave you unable to hear approaching vehicles.
- Avoid walking if you are impaired from alcohol or drugs as they can impair your judgment and coordination.
- Always use the sidewalk or path rather than the road. If a path is not available, walk on the shoulder and face the direction of the traffic.
- When crossing streets, use a designated crosswalk or intersection whenever possible.
Even with the correct safety precautions, pedestrian accidents are still all too common and are rising year on year, according to a survey from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). People are left with devastating injuries, having to take an extended leave from work, and facing mounting medical and rehabilitation costs. You should not have to contend with added financial pressure from an accident that was not your fault.
If the other motorist is proven to be negligent, you are entitled to compensation. A personal injury lawyer can be a valuable ally when it comes to representing you to protect your rights, overcome defensive tactics from insurance companies, and achieve a full and fair settlement. Litigation for pedestrian accidents can be complex, so it can be beneficial to leave the legal heavy lifting to your injury lawyer so that you can focus entirely on getting back to good health.
Additionally, it is good to act quickly so that you comply with the strict time limits in which you can bring a claim under Texas law. Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003(a) in Texas limits the filing of personal injury cases to occur within two years, after which you may not be able to pursue compensation.
For a free legal consultation, call 877-239-4878
Pursuing Compensation for Injuries Suffered in a Pedestrian Accident
Aside from gathering evidence and investigating your accident to build a robust and persuasive case, there are many ways in which a personal injury attorney can support you through the legal process, including:
- Proving negligence and liability.
- Negotiating with insurance companies and other lawyers on your behalf.
- Estimating the impact of your accident physically, emotionally, and financially.
- Reviewing settlement offers to ensure they accurately reflect the harm you have suffered.
- Representing your best interests should your case go to trial.
You should not have to pay for someone else’s reckless behavior. When the negligence is proven, you are entitled to compensation to cover the costs of:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation
- Lost earnings
- Reduced earning capacity
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death
If you are concerned about the cost of legal representation, many firms offer a free case evaluation to determine your legal options. You can check and see if your chosen law practice provides its services on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning you do not pay anything until a settlement or verdict is reached.
Learn More About How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help You with a Free Case Consultation Today
If you have been injured or lost a loved one while walking, crossing the street, or cycling, the dedicated team at Loncar Lyon Jenkins is ready to advise you about your claim today. We understand the challenges you are facing every day after being struck by a motorist as a pedestrian.
Our injury lawyers have helped many people with their financial recovery in a similar situation, and we want to help you too. While we cannot erase the physical harm you have endured, we can at least ease the pressures of worrying about your financial situation both now and for the future.
Call us for a free case evaluation at 877-239-4878 today.
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