Pedestrian Accidents

The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating traffic incidents. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection—no airbags, no seatbelts—just their body absorbing the full impact. This makes even low-speed crashes potentially life-threatening.

Many pedestrian accidents happen because drivers fail to see or yield to people walking near or across roads. Whether it’s a busy city intersection, a residential crosswalk, or a parking lot, pedestrians are at constant risk. If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, you should not have to face the financial and emotional burden alone. Legal action can help ensure you get the compensation needed for recovery.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents Involving Motor Vehicles

Most pedestrian accidents happen because of driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted Driving

• Drivers using their phones, eating, or adjusting the radio often don’t see pedestrians crossing the road.
• A split-second distraction can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

Failure to Yield at Crosswalks

• Many accidents happen when drivers don’t stop for pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks.
• Right turns at intersections are especially dangerous, as drivers often focus on vehicle traffic and fail to check for pedestrians.

Speeding

• A driver going too fast has less time to react to a pedestrian.
• Speeding increases the force of impact, making injuries more severe.

Poor Visibility & Low-Light Conditions

• Nighttime, bad weather, or obstructed views make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Accidents are more common in poorly lit intersections, alleys, and residential streets.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

• Drunk or impaired drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to miss seeing a pedestrian.
• DUI-related pedestrian accidents are often fatal.

Reckless & Aggressive Driving

• Running red lights, illegal turns, and failure to check blind spots put pedestrians at risk.
• Parking lot accidents are common, as drivers often back up without checking for pedestrians behind them.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Because pedestrians have no protection, injuries in accidents involving motor vehicles are often severe and long-lasting. Some of the most common include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head trauma can cause concussions, memory loss, and permanent cognitive issues.
• Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis: A direct hit can result in nerve damage, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
• Fractures & Broken Bones: Many pedestrians suffer broken legs, arms, ribs, or collarbones due to the force of impact.
• Internal Organ Damage: A pedestrian struck by a car may suffer internal bleeding or punctured organs.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Torn ligaments, muscle damage, and severe bruising can lead to chronic pain.
• Fatalities: Sadly, many pedestrian accidents result in wrongful death, leaving families with overwhelming loss and financial strain.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you were hit by a motor vehicle while walking, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights.

1. Call 911 & Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Even if you feel okay, internal injuries or brain trauma may not show symptoms immediately.
• Request a police report, which can help prove fault later.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If Possible)

• Take photos of the car, accident location, and any visible injuries.
• Get witness contact information—their statements can support your case.

3. Do Not Admit Fault or Discuss the Accident with Insurance Companies

• Anything you say may be used against you to deny or reduce your claim.
• Stick to the facts when speaking to police and medical professionals.

4. Preserve Clothing & Personal Items

Torn or damaged clothing, shoes, and belongings can serve as evidence in proving the severity of the accident.

5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

A lawyer can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Who is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?

Liability in pedestrian accidents is usually placed on the driver, but other factors can contribute. Potentially responsible parties include:

1. The Driver – If they were speeding, distracted, impaired, or failed to yield.
2. The City or Municipality – If poor street lighting, broken signals, or lack of crosswalks contributed to the accident.
3. Property Owners – If a business or private property failed to maintain safe walking areas, causing the pedestrian to be in harm’s way.

A personal injury attorney will investigate all possible causes to determine who is responsible for the accident.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Pedestrian accident victims often face severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Compensation may cover:

• Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term therapy.
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings: Compensation if the injury prevents returning to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress, PTSD, and loss of quality of life.
• Permanent Disability & Home Modifications: If injuries require wheelchair ramps, assistive devices, or in-home care.
• Wrongful Death Compensation: Families of deceased victims may receive damages for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Insurance companies often blame pedestrians or try to minimize injury claims. Without legal representation, victims may not receive the full compensation they deserve. A personal injury attorney can:

• Investigate the Accident: Gather police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
• Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Prevent them from downplaying injuries or offering unfair settlements.
• Prove Liability: Demonstrate that the driver’s actions led to the accident and your injuries.
• Take Your Case to Court (If Necessary): If insurance refuses to offer a fair settlement.