Pedestrian Accidents

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, especially if you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries. At Safi Law Group, our team of dedicated personal injury lawyers is committed to assisting those injured in pedestrian accidents due to the negligence of others. We understand the challenges accident victims face and are here to guide you through the complex legal process. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, we encourage you to contact Safi Law Group for a free introductory consultation to discuss your case.

Reach out to our office by phone at (780) 760-7234, and let our experienced attorneys help you navigate the road to recovery.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, often resulting from the negligence of drivers or other parties. Some common causes of pedestrian injuries include:

1. Distracted driving: Motor vehicle accidents involving pedestrians are frequently caused by drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions that take their attention away from the road.
2. Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions can be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
3. Failure to yield: Many pedestrian accidents happen at intersections or crosswalks when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
4. Impaired driving: Alcohol and drug use can impair a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely, leading to accidents involving pedestrians.
5. Poor visibility: Inadequate lighting or inclement weather can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents.

Who is At-Fault in Accidents Involving Pedestrians?

Determining fault in pedestrian accidents is crucial for filing a personal injury claim and obtaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Generally, the fault party is determined based on negligence, which means that one party failed to exercise reasonable care, resulting in injury to another party.

In many cases, the driver of the vehicle involved in an accident with a pedestrian is responsible for the accident. However, pedestrians can also be partially or wholly at fault if they fail to exercise reasonable care, such as crossing the street without paying attention to traffic or jaywalking. In some instances, multiple parties may share responsibility for an accident. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of determining fault and pursuing a personal injury claim.

Should I Make a Claim after a Pedestrian Accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to consider whether to make a personal injury claim. By filing a claim, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.

When determining whether to make a claim, consider the following factors:

1. Severity of injuries: Catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injuries, may result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and a diminished quality of life. In such cases, pursuing a personal injury claim may be necessary to secure financial compensation.
2. Fault: If the driver or another party was at fault for the accident, you might have a strong case for compensation. Consult with a personal injury lawyer to assess the strength of your claim.
3. Insurance coverage: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Common Injuries Suffered in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering conditions. Some common injuries suffered in pedestrian accidents include:

1. Traumatic brain injury: Head injuries can have long-lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and motor skills. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, requiring ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.

1. Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting a person’s mobility and independence. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, adaptive equipment, and long-term care.
2. Fractures and broken bones: Pedestrians may suffer fractures or broken bones in their arms, legs, ribs, or other parts of the body as a result of the impact with a vehicle.
3. Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
4. Internal injuries: The force of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, resulting in life-threatening complications and requiring emergency medical attention.
5. Emotional trauma: Besides physical injuries, pedestrian accident victims may experience emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

What is the Potential Liability for Hitting a Pedestrian?

When a driver is at fault for a pedestrian accident, they may face civil and criminal liability. Civil liability involves compensating the injured pedestrian for damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer can help victims pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver or their insurance company.

Criminal liability may arise if the driver’s actions leading to the accident were reckless or in violation of traffic laws. Examples of criminal behaviour include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, hit-and-run accidents, or excessive speeding. In such cases, the driver may face fines, license suspension, or even imprisonment.

It’s important to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer to understand your rights and potential liabilities in the aftermath of an accident. Safi Law Group is committed to helping victims of pedestrian accidents seek the compensation they deserve. With our expertise in personal injury law and dedication to our clients, we can guide you through the legal process and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Reach out today for a free initial consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to contact Safi Law Group for a free initial consultation. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. Contact our office today by phone at (780) 760-7234 and let us help you on the path to recovery.