Pedestrian Accident Attorney

A Growing Number of Pedestrians Will Die When Walking

The number of pedestrians deaths in the country is growing substantially. Recently, the rate of pedestrian deaths reached its highest since 1990, and the growth is only anticipated to accelerate. Officials seek to create safety programs to combat the number of pedestrian accidents. Some of these safety initiatives were addressed recently in a study conducted by Smart Growth America and the National Complete Streets Coalition. The study found that all over the United States, governments and planners continue to design streets that are dangerous for everyone. 

The Reason Behind the Increase in Pedestrian Fatalities

There is no one cause of pedestrian deaths. Experts cite several factors for these accidents including distracted drivers, large vehicles, and more people are walking. To make matters even more complex, there is no single solution to implement. Despite a $1 billion budget by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the government has been unable to fully combat this hazard. 

While the exact cause behind the increase in pedestrian accidents remains uncertain, there is a belief held by many drivers that they can multitask while still safely operating a vehicle. In reality, humans can only focus on one task at a time, which is why performing multiple tasks simultaneously is dangerous. Distracted driving costs people their lives.

Typical Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems, diverts the driver’s attention away from the road and especially away from pedestrians crossing the road. This negligence can result in catastrophic injuries and death.

As one of the top pedestrian accident lawyers, I have witnessed terrible tragedies and represented their families in personal injury claims. I have also won millions of dollars on their behalf, by holding the negligent driver accountable!

Speeding

Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and ability to stop quickly. When a driver fails to adhere to speed limits, they are more likely to injure pedestrians because they cannot react and stop quickly enough.

Pedestrian accident victims have no chance against a speeding driver, and suffer horrific injuries. Personal injury attorneys, like myself, represent traumatized victims, whose lives are forever changed as a result of the accident.

Failure to Yield

Drivers who do not yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections can cause serious accidents. Some people are in too much of hurry, and do not take time, or care to recognize a pedestrian is crossing the street.

An accident involving a vehicle and a defenseless pedestrian, almost always results in a personal injury case. Sadly, they sometimes result in wrongful death cases as well.

Drunk Driving

Impaired drivers often have reduced judgment and slower reaction times, making them a significant risk to pedestrians. Pedestrian accident cases often involve drunk drivers, with victims seeking compensation through personal injury claims for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and mental anguish.

Running Red Lights/Stop Signs

Drivers who disregard traffic signals or signs can collide with pedestrians who are lawfully crossing the road and result in serious consequences. Careless drivers will be held liable because my law firm will seek financial compensation for the injuries suffered by my clients. Financial recovery should include fair compensation for lost income, medical care, future medical care, therapies and more.

If you need legal assistance, call me today for a free case evaluation and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Poor Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed and behavior accordingly can cause accidents with pedestrians.

It is critical for drivers to exercise caution when driving in inclement weather. At fault parties will be held accountable, and I will seek maximum compensation for my injured clients.

Failing to Check Blind Spots

Neglecting to check blind spots before turning or changing lanes can result in pedestrians being struck by a vehicle. This is especially true at night, when visibility is diminished. Even slightly sideswiping a defenseless pedestrian can cause terrible injuries.

Reckless Driving

Aggressive or reckless driving behaviors, like tailgating or swerving between lanes, can endanger pedestrians. When someone is driving recklessly, they may not maintain the control of the vehicle necessary to avoid oncoming hazards.

Inadequate Lighting

Poorly lit roads can make it difficult for drivers and pedestrians to see each other. This lack of visibility can contribute to accidents.

Car accidents involving pedestrians can occur for a multitude of reasons, and can cause devastating injuries. An injured pedestrian or family members will often seek compensation through legal means in the form of a a pedestrian accident case. It is very important to seek the help of experienced pedestrian accident attorneys. Call me and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Injury Concerns

Broken Bones

Pedestrians often suffer head trauma, internal injuries, broken legs, arms, and/or ribs because they have no means of protection in car accidents. There isn’t a buffer between the car and person crossing the street. Recovery can be challenging; surgeries, physical therapy, and a lengthy rehabilitation period. Some severe fractures may lead to permanent disability or mobility limitations, necessitating future medical expenses and ongoing care. Call me for a free consultation to discuss your personal injury claim against the at-fault driver’s bodily injury liability coverage.

Head Injuries

Head injuries range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The recovery from head injuries can be extremely challenging, with varying degrees of cognitive and physical impairment. Long-term rehabilitation, including cognitive therapy, may be required, and some victims may never fully recover. Serious head injuries can even result in death.

Spinal Cord Injuries

When hit by a car, the body can be twisted and turned in very awkward directions resulting in spinal cord injury. Severe spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis, either partial (paraplegia) or complete (quadriplegia). These injuries are life-changing, and often require lifelong medical care, specialized equipment, and substantial financial support for lost wages and future medical expenses.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and contusions. While they may not be as severe as some other injuries, they can still cause significant pain and missed work. Recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury, but can result in lost wages and high medical costs.

Psychological Trauma

Pedestrian car accidents can cause psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or even depression. Recovery from these emotional injuries can be difficult and may necessitate therapy and counseling. Victims may also face lost wages due to the emotional toll.

Wrongful Death

In the most tragic cases, pedestrian car accidents result in fatalities. When a loved one dies due to the negligence of a driver, the surviving family members need to file a wrongful death claim. This will seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, medical bills and emotional suffering.

Lost Wages

Any serious injury sustained in a pedestrian car accident can lead to lost wages, as victims may be unable to work during their recovery period. This financial burden can be included in a personal injury claim to compensate for the income they would have earned if not for the accident.

Future Medical Expenses

Severe injuries often require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation, resulting in significant ongoing medical expenses. These costs should be considered in a personal injury claim to ensure the victim receives compensation to cover their long-term healthcare needs.

Pedestrian car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from broken bones and head injuries to spinal cord injuries and psychological trauma. Recovery can be challenging, time consuming, and costly. I am an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer, with more than 40 years of helping the people of Cleveland who suffered unfortunate injuries. Call me today, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

What To Do if You’ve Been Hit by a Car

If you are physically able:

Ensure Safety

Prioritize your safety. If you can move, try to get to a safe place away from traffic to avoid further harm.

Call for Help

Dial 911 or emergency services immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance for yourself and others involved.

Exchange Information

Exchange information with the driver who hit you, as you would after any motor vehicle accident. Collect their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details. Also, note the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.

Document the Scene

If possible, take photos or video of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, your injuries, road conditions, and any traffic signs or signals. These records may be valuable for a potential pedestrian accident claim.

Gather Witness Information

If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their names and contact information. Their statements may be essential in supporting your pedestrian accident claim.

Report the Accident

Notify the local police or law enforcement about the accident. They will create an accident report, which can be crucial for your accident claim.

Preserve Evidence

Keep any evidence related to the accident, such as medical records, bills, and receipts for expenses. This documentation will be necessary for your personal injury attorney to build a strong case.

Call Me

I am here to make the legal process easy for you. I can provide legal guidance, assess your case’s merits, and help you understand your rights and options.

Notify Your Insurance Company

If you have auto insurance or other applicable coverage, promptly inform your insurance company about the accident. Understand your policy’s terms and any potential coverage for medical expenses or legal fees.

File a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Work with me to file a pedestrian accident claim against the negligent driver’s insurance company. Provide all necessary documentation and information to support your claim.

Negotiate or Litigate

I will negotiate with the insurance company for a maximum settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, I may advise you to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries.

Remember, it’s essential to act swiftly, as pedestrian accident claims can be complex. I understand how hard a serious personal injury can be on you and your family. I am here to get you the help you need. While you focus on your recovery, I will take care of everything else. Call me today, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

New Legislative Efforts

The government currently has several programs in effect to make roads safer. A budget that was recently approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee will provide $49 billion in highway aid during the current fiscal year. Additionally, the overall transportation budget includes safety-related funding. 

Life Care Planners and Walking Accidents

The aftermath of walking accidents can leave families facing serious obstacles. In these situations, many families have discovered that life care planners can be helpful. Planners can perform several tasks including arranging plans of action for the end of hospital care stays, planning for appointments, helping with paperwork, and meeting transportation needs of the injured victim. I can help your family arrange for a life care planner after a loved one has suffered injuries in a walking accident.

Pursuing Compensation Following Walking Accidents

If you have been injured in a walking accident, you have options to obtain compensation even if you were partially at fault. Umbrella coverage provides additional routes to compensation beyond a person’s basic insurance policy. In these situations, your insurance company can pick up the tab. To learn more about your various options, contact me today.

Pedestrian Accident FAQ Summary

1. What should I do immediately after a pedestrian car accident?

Immediately after a pedestrian car accident, prioritize safety by moving to a safe location if possible. Call 911 for medical assistance and report the accident to the police. Exchange information with the driver and collect witness information if available. Seek medical attention even if your injuries seem minor, and document the accident scene and your injuries. Finally, call me and we’ll discuss your legal options.

2. How can I prove that the driver was negligent and at fault for the accident?

Proving driver negligence involves gathering evidence such as witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, traffic camera footage, and the police report. I will assess these factors to establish negligence. Key elements include demonstrating that the driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty through negligent actions, and that this negligence directly caused your injuries.

3. What types of compensation can I seek in a pedestrian accident claim?

In a pedestrian accident claim, you can seek compensation for medical expenses (current and future), lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, rehabilitation costs and loss of consortium. In severe cases, compensation for permanent disability or disfigurement can be sought. My team of experts can determine the specific damages applicable to your claim.