Pedestrian Accidents: What Are They and How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?
Pedestrian accidents involve a pedestrian, or someone on foot, being struck by a vehicle, such as a car, truck, or motorcycle. These accidents can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to life-altering disabilities or even fatalities. If you or a loved on has been involved in a pedestrian accident, Reasonover Law is here to help you navigate the legal system and obtain just compensation for your losses. Here’s more information on pedestrian accidents, their causes, and the role of car accident lawyers in helping victims seek justice and compensation:
Understanding Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents occur when a vehicle collides with an individual that is traveling on foot. These accidents can take place in various settings, not just on roadways. Pedestrians are often at risk when crossing at intersections, even when they have the right of way in a crosswalk. Drivers failing to yield or running red lights can cause accidents. Pedestrian accidents can also happen when vehicles leave the road and collide with pedestrians on sidewalks. Pedestrians can be vulnerable to accidents in parking lots, where cars often maneuver, back up, or pull in and out of spaces with limited visibility. Accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles frequently occur in residential neighborhoods where children may be playing in or crossing streets.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can be attributed to several factors, with human error being one of the most significant. Drivers using smartphones, eating, or engaging in other distractions while operating a vehicle are less likely to notice pedestrians. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it difficult to stop to avoid a collision with a pedestrian. Drivers failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents. Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can affect one’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, which can cause accidents. Limited visibility due to weather conditions, low lighting, or obstructed view can make it challenging for drivers to spot pedestrians. Aggressive or reckless driving behaviors like running red lights or stop signs can result in pedestrian accidents.
The Role of Car Accident Lawyers in Pedestrian Accidents
Car accident lawyers help pedestrian accident victims seek justice, navigate complex legal processes, and obtain compensation for their injuries and losses. Here are some of the ways these specialized attorneys assist accident victims:
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Car accident attorneys conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence related to the accident. This includes reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, obtaining surveillance footage, and reconstructing the accident scene if necessary. Lawyers can build a solid case to establish liability by collecting compelling evidence.
Determining Liability
One of the key tasks of car accident lawyers is establishing liability and determining who is at fault for the pedestrian accident. This may involve proving that the driver’s negligence, recklessness, or violation of traffic laws led to the collision. In cases of partial liability, lawyers work to maximize compensation based on the percentage of fault assigned to each party.
Evaluating Damages
Car accident lawyers assess the full extent of their client’s injuries and losses. This includes medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering. It can also include lost wages and future expenses related to their injuries. A comprehensive evaluation helps lawyers determine an appropriate compensation amount. At Reasonover Law, our attorneys will negotiate a settlement that includes payment for your physical, mental, and emotional suffering.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to settle pedestrian accident claims quickly and for as little money as possible. Lawyers are skilled negotiators who advocate for their clients to secure fair and just settlements. They understand the tactics used by insurance companies and can counteract them effectively.
Litigation Representation
If negotiations with the insurance company do not yield a satisfactory result, car accident lawyers are prepared to take the case to court. They will file a lawsuit and represent their clients in court proceedings. In court, they will present the case’s evidence and arguments to a judge and jury and fight for their client’s rights.
Meet With a Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Reasonover Law, our team understands that pedestrian accidents can have severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences for victims. If you or a loved one has been involved in pedestrian accident, you can pursue financial compensation with the help of Reasonover Law. Our lawyers are dedicated to fighting for our clients’ rights both in and out of the courtroom. Contact us today to set up a consultation and learn more about how we can help with your case.
