Pedestrian accidents can leave you in physically and financially ruins
In 2023, 1,399 people were injured by a car. 133 people died as a result of a pedestrian car wreck.
Pedestrian accident cases are very difficult cases in Virginia. Hiring a qualified injury lawyer is crucial in navigating these complex legal matters and ensuring appropriate compensation. So many people do not understand what side of the road they should be walking on, and when it is safe to do so.
The law in Virginia is designed to keep pedestrians safe. But it can appear counterintuitive.
In short, if you are walking on the hard surface of the road, then you should walk as close as you can to the edge and walk against traffic. That way you can see oncoming traffic and you will not get hit from behind while you are walking. It is important to walk facing traffic to reduce the risk of accidents, especially in urban areas.
But, if you are walking on the shoulder, then you can walk on either shoulder.
We have seen many cases where the debate is over whether our client was walking on the shoulder or the hard surface of the road. The serious consequences of pedestrian hit-and-run incidents, such as injuries and financial struggles, highlight the need for legal support. If you break the law regarding which side of the road to walk on, then the jury could find you guilty of contributory negligence. It is also essential to file a pedestrian accident claim within specific timeframes as dictated by state laws to secure potential compensation.
Introduction to Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in the United States, resulting in serious injuries and pedestrian fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, thousands of pedestrians are killed or injured in motor vehicle crashes each year.
Pedestrian accident lawyers play a crucial role in helping injured pedestrians and their families seek compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to understand your rights and options for pursuing a personal injury claim.
Causes and Consequences of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various factors, including distracted driving, failure to yield, and speeding. The consequences of these accidents can be devastating, resulting in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and even death. Injured pedestrians may require extensive medical treatment, including physical therapy and surgery. They may be unable to work or engage in daily activities. Experienced pedestrian accident lawyers can help victims and their families navigate the complex legal process and pursue compensation for their losses.
Virginia Pedestrian Accident Statistics and Trends
Pedestrian accident lawyers in Virginia are well-versed in the state’s traffic laws. They can help injured pedestrians and their families seek compensation for their losses. By understanding the statistics and trends surrounding pedestrian accidents in Virginia, we can work towards preventing these accidents and promoting pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian Safety and Prevention Measures
Preventing pedestrian accidents requires a combination of efforts from drivers, pedestrians, and local authorities. Pedestrians can take steps to stay safe by following traffic signals, using designated crosswalks, and being aware of their surroundings.
Drivers can also play a crucial role in preventing accidents by avoiding distracted driving. They should following speed limits and yield to pedestrians. Local authorities can implement safety measures such as improving lighting and infrastructure to reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents.
By working together, we can reduce the number of pedestrian accidents and promote a safer environment for everyone.
What is Contributory Negligence?
What is contributory negligence? Contributory negligence is a one hundred percent bar of any recovery in Virginia. That means if you are one percent negligent, then you will get nothing and you don’t have a case.
Many of these cases come down to this question: could you have seen and avoided the danger by exercising your own reasonable diligence.
In many instances, you simply need a lawyer who knows these rules inside and out. Your lawyer should be able to tell you when the insurance company is wasting time. He or she should help you push toward a trial. Additionally, attorney fees in pedestrian accident cases are often structured on a contingent fee basis. That means you only pay if you win your case.
The insurance companies almost never agree to liability in these cases as they are hoping for a contributory negligence verdict. They always choose to fight, instead of doing the right thing. Insurance companies may also try to deny claims to avoid paying settlements, making experienced legal representation crucial.
A trusted lawyer should know how to handle a pedestrian case
Our pedestrian accident attorneys are experts at getting information to prove our client’s case.
For example, Hannah Bowie represented a pedestrian in a car wreck case in Farmville, Virginia. After extensive litigation, the defense finally stipulated that the defendant was liable. That means the jury only had to decide how much to award our client.
Even though the insurance company made an offer, it was way too low to accept.
At trial, our client was awarded double the insurance company’s last offer.
To be the best pedestrian accident lawyer, you have to try pedestrian accident cases. Trying cases and winning verdicts helps your lawyer understand how much to expect in a settlement.
Our job as lawyers is to tell you what to expect and what the possible outcomes could be. Your job is to make the best legal decision you can make with the information you have.
Sometimes that means settling your case, and other times it means trying your case to a jury.
We walk through both decisions with you. Our lawyers are dedicated to helping clients in recovering compensation, even if they are partially at fault.
Seeking Medical Attention and Treatment After a Pedestrian Accident
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not appear to be seriously injured, you may have suffered internal injuries or traumatic brain injuries that require medical attention.
Failing to seek medical attention can also harm your personal injury claim, as insurance companies may argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
Experienced pedestrian accident lawyers can help you navigate the medical process and ensure that you receive the treatment you need to recover from your injuries.
Understanding Pedestrian Injury and Its Impact
Pedestrian injuries can have a significant impact on a person’s life, affecting their ability to work, engage in daily activities, and enjoy time with loved ones. In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can also result in emotional trauma and financial burdens.
Pedestrian accident lawyers can help victims and their families understand the full extent of their injuries and pursue compensation for their losses. By seeking fair compensation, injured pedestrians can begin to rebuild their lives and move forward after a devastating accident.
If you’ve suffered one of these injuries, you may be wondering
What Damages May I Recover?
- Medical Expense
- Pain and Suffering
- Inconvenience
- Permanent Impairment or Disfigurement
- Lost Wages
- Lost Earning Capacity
Do you have a pedestrian accident case?
Contacting a reputable law firm in Lynchburg, Virginia can help you recover financially after an accident.
Because there is a two-year window for you to be able to file a lawsuit, the sooner you contact an attorney, the better. You have rights under Virginia law and an attorney can help you preserve those rights. Understanding the timeframe for filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
