Pedestrian Accident Lawyer & Pedestrian Strike Injury Attorney
We Seek Full Compensation for Pedestrian Injuries and Fatalities.
Roads in many areas are frequently congested with traffic, creating significant safety risks for pedestrians. These dangers are often heightened by a lack of awareness among many drivers about pedestrian rights. Many motorists mistakenly believe that pedestrians should yield to them, leading to situations where drivers fail to give pedestrians the right of way. This disregard for pedestrian safety frequently results in collisions and near misses, putting lives at risk.
If you’ve been injured or if a loved one has been tragically killed due to a negligent driver, we’re here to help. We provide comprehensive injury and wrongful death representation, including contingency fee arrangements—meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. We also advance all litigation costs, so you won’t need to worry about out-of-pocket expenses for court fees or expert witnesses while your case is ongoing. Most importantly, we offer the personal attention and dedication you and your family deserve during this challenging time.
Please Feel Free to Call Us at (855) 343-0997 for a Free Consultation and to Learn About Your Options for Seeking Recovery from Those Responsible
The Risks of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable when walking alongside roadways or crossing streets. Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians have no physical protection in the event of a collision. This lack of protection often leads to severe injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and even fatalities. The impact of such injuries can be life-altering, leading to long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant financial burdens.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various factors, many of which are related to driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may fail to see pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections often cause serious accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, leading to a higher risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents frequently occur when drivers fail to see pedestrians due to low light conditions, fog, or other visibility issues.
Understanding Liability in Pedestrian Accident Cases
In both Massachusetts and Georgia, drivers have a legal obligation to exercise caution and avoid causing harm to pedestrians. If a driver fails to meet this obligation and hits a pedestrian, they may be held liable for the resulting injuries. However, determining liability can be complex, especially in cases where multiple factors contributed to the accident.
At Lionhart Injury Law, we work diligently to investigate the circumstances of accidents, by gathering evidence and building a strong case to hold all responsible parties accountable. This may include not only the driver but also other entities such as municipalities that fail to maintain safe roadways or property owners who neglect to address hazardous conditions.
Can I Recover Future Damages in a Pedestrian Injury Case?
Absolutely.
In Massachusetts, Georgia, and across the country, when you file a lawsuit for a pedestrian injury, you must include all potential damages at that time. There’s typically no opportunity to seek additional compensation later if your injuries turn out to be more severe than initially anticipated.
In cases of serious injuries, such as paralysis or traumatic brain injuries, the financial impact can be immense, often reaching into the millions. This can include:
- Lifetime caregiver expenses
- Loss of earning capacity
- Future surgeries and associated pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and inability to participate in physical activities with loved ones
- Diminished quality of life
Each pedestrian injury case is unique. When catastrophic injuries occur, seeking full compensation that accounts for all future needs is crucial. This often involves working with medical, vocational, and life-care planning professionals to evaluate the long-term requirements of those who have suffered severe injuries.
The law allows you to recover future expenses, lost income, ongoing medical care, and compensation for pain and suffering—provided it can be shown that these costs are “more likely than not” to arise. Our role as your legal counsel is to establish the extent of these injuries and damages, ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Pedestrian Injury Attorney.
We offer a free consultation so that you can ask questions about bringing a lawsuit, the strengths and merits of your case, and any other issues that you might have. This consultation is also an opportunity to find out about your legal opportunities for seeking compensation from all those who may be liable for your damages.
If you have been injured or if a family member has been killed due to the fault of someone else in a pedestrian collision, We invite you to call us at (855) 343-0997.
Pedestrian\Motor Vehicle Accident Claim FAQs
What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident?
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, the first priority is to seek medical attention immediately. Then, report the accident to the police and document the scene as much as possible. This includes taking photos, gathering witness contact information, and noting any traffic signals or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Contact a pedestrian injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes, in both Massachusetts and Georgia, you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault for the accident, as long as your liability does not exceed a certain threshold. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%. It’s important to work with a pedestrian accident attorney who can help minimize your assigned fault and maximize your recovery.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical costs, including hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time missed from work because of the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or reduce your ability to earn the same income as before the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the diminished ability to enjoy life’s activities due to the injuries sustained.
How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim varies by state. In Massachusetts, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years. It is crucial to contact a pedestrian injury lawyer promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe.
Can I Sue if I Wasn’t in a Crosswalk When I Was Hit?
Yes, you can. The law allows a pedestrian to file a lawsuit even if they weren’t in a crosswalk when struck. You don’t need to be at an intersection or designated crossing area—you can still pursue legal action if you were hit while “jaywalking” or crossing the street in the middle of a block.
The main factor in these cases is whether the driver was negligent. All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely, which includes following speed limits, obeying traffic signs, driving cautiously in adverse weather, and staying alert to their surroundings. Actions such as speeding, driving under the influence, or texting while driving are considered unsafe and can lead to driver liability.