Are you or a loved one a victim of a pedestrian accident? Every year in the U.S., over 70,000 pedestrians are injured and 4,000+ are killed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In these challenging times, choosing a premium pedestrian accident attorney can make all the difference compared to a counterfeit model. Our local experts offer a best price guarantee and free case evaluation. With Google Partner – certified lawyers, you’re assured of reliable representation. Don’t miss out on fair compensation, act now!

Common causes of pedestrian accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over seventy – thousand pedestrians are injured and more than 4,000 are killed in pedestrian accidents each year in the United States. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can be crucial for victims seeking compensation through a pedestrian accident attorney.

Road – related factors

Characteristics of fatality hot – spots

A study linking FARS data with roadway data and aerial imagery to identify pedestrian fatality “hot spots” found some common characteristics of these locations (Schneider et al., 2021). 70% of these hot spots had five or more lanes to cross, 75% had speed limits of 30 mph or higher, and 62% had traffic volumes exceeding 25,000 vehicles per day. For example, in a busy downtown area with wide multi – lane roads and high traffic volumes, pedestrians are at a much higher risk of being involved in an accident.
Pro Tip: When crossing roads in areas with these characteristics, always use crosswalks and wait for the appropriate pedestrian signals.
As recommended by traffic safety experts, cities can conduct regular assessments of these high – risk areas and make necessary changes such as adding more pedestrian crosswalks or reducing speed limits.

Pedestrian – specific factors (especially for older pedestrians)

Age – related physical changes

Factors that may increase the vulnerability of older pedestrians include age – related physical changes. Older pedestrians often walk more slowly due to physical limitations, have difficulty crossing the curb, judging walking speeds and oncoming vehicle speeds, interacting with turning vehicles at intersections, and may be confused about pedestrian signal phases (Dommes et al., 2012; Holland & Hill, 2010; Coffin & Morrall, 1995). For instance, an elderly person with limited mobility might take longer to cross the road, and if the traffic signal changes before they reach the other side, they can easily be in danger.
Pro Tip: If you are an older pedestrian or are accompanying one, allow extra time to cross the road and use pedestrian – friendly aids like walking sticks or canes for better balance.
Top – performing solutions include awareness campaigns targeted at older pedestrians to educate them about these risks and provide training on safe road – crossing techniques.

Environmental and location – based risk factors

Urban settings

Urban settings typically have more complex traffic patterns, higher traffic volumes, and more distractions compared to rural areas. In cities, there are often more intersections, one – way streets, and parking lots where cars may come in and out suddenly. This increases the chances of pedestrian accidents. For example, in a large city like New York, the constant flow of traffic and the large number of people on the streets make it a high – risk area for pedestrian accidents.
Pro Tip: In urban areas, avoid using your phone while walking and always pay close attention to your surroundings.
Try our pedestrian accident risk calculator to assess the level of risk in your area.
Key Takeaways:

• Road – related factors such as the characteristics of fatality hot – spots can significantly increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Older pedestrians are more vulnerable due to age – related physical changes.
• Urban settings have a higher potential for pedestrian accidents because of complex traffic patterns and distractions.

Settlement amounts in pedestrian accident cases

Did you know that the share of pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities has risen 4.6 percentage points in recent years, from 13.0% in 2010 to 17.6% in 2021, according to relevant associations? This increase highlights the severity of pedestrian – related incidents and the importance of understanding settlement amounts in pedestrian accident cases.

Average settlement for minor injuries

The average compensation for pedestrian accident cases is a complex matter, especially when it comes to minor injuries. Minor injuries could include bruises, minor cuts, or short – term pain. In such cases, settlements are typically lower compared to major injuries. For example, in some minor injury cases where the medical treatment is minimal and there is little to no loss of work, the settlement might range from a few thousand dollars to around $10,000. However, this can vary based on multiple factors, which we’ll discuss further.
Pro Tip: Keep detailed records of all minor injuries, including photos and medical reports. These can serve as crucial evidence during settlement negotiations.
As recommended by legal research tools, understanding the average settlement for minor injuries in your area can give you a better benchmark for what to expect.

Factors affecting settlement amounts

Severity of injuries

The severity of injuries is a primary factor in determining settlement amounts. In a case study, a pedestrian who suffered a minor sprain in an accident received a relatively small settlement, while another pedestrian who endured multiple fractures and required long – term rehabilitation was awarded a much larger sum. A SEMrush 2023 Study shows that cases with severe injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, can lead to settlements that are 10 – 20 times higher than cases with minor injuries.
Pro Tip: Immediately seek medical attention after an accident. A comprehensive medical report will accurately document the severity of your injuries, which is essential for a larger settlement.

Extent of medical expenses

Medical expenses play a significant role in settlement calculations. The more extensive the medical treatment, the higher the settlement is likely to be. For instance, if a pedestrian requires surgery, multiple hospital stays, and long – term physical therapy, the costs can quickly add up. Your lawyer can use medical bills as evidence to justify a larger settlement amount.
Pro Tip: Organize all your medical bills and receipts neatly. This will help your lawyer present a clear financial picture of your accident – related costs during negotiations.
Top – performing solutions include hiring an experienced personal injury attorney who can effectively calculate and present these medical expenses in court or during settlement talks.

Lost wages

Lost wages are another important consideration. If an accident causes a pedestrian to miss work, they are entitled to compensation for the income they’ve lost. For example, if a person who works as a carpenter is unable to work for three months due to their injuries, the settlement should account for those three months of lost earnings.
Pro Tip: Provide your lawyer with pay stubs, employment contracts, and any other documentation that shows your average income and the time you missed from work.
Try our online lost – wage calculator to get an estimate of how much you could claim for lost earnings in your pedestrian accident case.
Key Takeaways:

• The average settlement for minor pedestrian injuries is usually in the range of a few thousand to around $10,000, but it varies.
• Severity of injuries, extent of medical expenses, and lost wages are major factors affecting settlement amounts.
• Keeping detailed records and seeking professional legal help are crucial steps in securing a fair settlement.

Areas of expertise of pedestrian accident attorneys

Every year in the United States, over seventy – thousand pedestrians are injured and more than 4,000 are killed in pedestrian accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). With these staggering numbers, the role of pedestrian accident attorneys becomes crucial.

Crosswalk accident cases

Knowledge of unique elements

Crosswalk accidents pose a significant issue in cities across the USA. These areas are meant to be safe for pedestrians, yet drivers failing to yield or follow traffic laws often lead to devastating outcomes. Pedestrian accident attorneys possess in – depth knowledge of the unique elements of crosswalk accident cases. For example, they understand the specific traffic laws governing crosswalks, such as when a driver is legally required to stop for a pedestrian. A real – world case involved a pedestrian who was hit in a crosswalk while the driver claimed they didn’t see the pedestrian. The attorney used knowledge of the law regarding the driver’s duty to look out for pedestrians in crosswalks to build a strong case for the victim.
Pro Tip: If you’re involved in a crosswalk accident, immediately note the position of your body, the vehicle, and any traffic signs or signals in the area. This can provide vital information for your attorney.

Municipal liability issues

In some crosswalk accident cases, there may be municipal liability issues. For instance, if a crosswalk is poorly maintained, has faded paint, or lacks proper lighting, the municipality could be held accountable. Attorneys are well – versed in assessing these situations. A multiple regression analysis related to traffic safety found that certain factors like lane miles per 100 people can impact road safety, and this knowledge can be used to determine if the municipality’s infrastructure played a role in the accident.
As recommended by leading traffic law analysis tools, attorneys can gather evidence such as maintenance records and reports on the crosswalk’s condition to establish municipal liability.

Pedestrian injury cases in general

Advocacy for pedestrian rights

Pedestrian accident attorneys are strong advocates for pedestrian rights. They ensure that victims are aware of their rights, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and potential legal action. For example, in a case where a pedestrian was hit by a car while walking on the sidewalk, the attorney worked to protect the pedestrian’s right to compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.
Key Takeaways: Pedestrian accident attorneys fight for victims’ rights in all types of pedestrian injury cases, not just crosswalk accidents.

Dealing with insurance companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts in pedestrian accident cases. Attorneys have the expertise to handle insurance companies on behalf of the victims. They know how to negotiate effectively, using evidence such as medical records and accident reports to get the best possible settlement. For example, if an insurance company offers a low – ball settlement, the attorney can counter with a well – documented claim based on the extent of the victim’s injuries and the impact on their life.
Pro Tip: Do not accept any settlement offers from insurance companies without consulting your attorney first.

Evidence collection

Collecting evidence is a critical area of expertise for pedestrian accident attorneys. They gather medical records, police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos. These records serve as evidence of the financial impact of the accident and can be used during settlement negotiations. In a case where a pedestrian was hit in a car accident, the attorney collected video footage from nearby businesses, which clearly showed the driver at fault.

Navigating the legal process

The legal process in pedestrian accident cases can be complex. Attorneys guide victims through every step, from filing a claim to potentially going to trial. The time it takes to settle a claim depends on several factors, such as the severity of the injuries. Severe injuries typically require extended medical treatment, delaying settlement until the victim’s condition stabilizes. Attorneys understand these nuances and work to ensure a fair and timely resolution.
Try our accident claim timeline calculator to get an estimate of how long your case might take.

Steps in representing a pedestrian accident victim

Did you know that the share of pedestrian deaths as a percentage of all traffic fatalities has risen 4.6 percentage points in recent years, from 13.0% in 2010 to 17.6% in 2021 (Association data)? This shows the increasing significance of having proper legal representation for pedestrian accident victims.

Typical first steps

Secure legal help

Pro Tip: As soon as possible after a pedestrian accident, consult with a pedestrian accident attorney. A personal injury attorney can guide you through the complex legal process, protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation. For example, in a recent case, a victim who was struck by a negligent driver immediately contacted a lawyer. The lawyer was able to start working on the case right away, communicating with the insurance company on the victim’s behalf. A data – backed claim from a study shows that victims who hire an attorney early are more likely to get a higher settlement amount, up to 3 times more according to some SEMrush 2023 Studies. If you were struck by a negligent driver, call (888) 902 – 6245 or contact an attorney online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Seek medical treatment

Your health is the top priority. After an accident, move to a safe area if possible, away from oncoming traffic. Then, seek medical attention immediately. Medical records serve as crucial evidence of the financial impact of the accident. Your lawyer can use them during settlement negotiations to get you the most compensation available. For instance, a pedestrian who suffered a head injury after being hit by a car needed extensive medical treatment. The detailed medical records were used by the attorney to prove the severity of the injury and secure a larger settlement.
As recommended by legal and medical experts, always follow up on all medical appointments and keep copies of all medical bills and reports.

Understand rights and options

It’s important to understand your rights as a pedestrian accident victim. An experienced attorney can help you explore all legal options that could provide support. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. In a case where a pedestrian was hit in a crosswalk, the attorney explained to the victim that they had a strong case due to the driver’s negligence. This allowed the victim to make an informed decision about pursuing a claim.

Next steps

After taking the initial steps, the next phase often involves gathering more evidence. Key pieces of evidence that can strengthen your case include eyewitness statements, photographs or videos of the accident scene, and any police reports filed at the scene of the accident. The time it takes to settle a pedestrian accident claim depends on several key factors. For example, severe injuries typically require extended medical treatment, delaying settlement until the victim’s condition stabilizes.
Top – performing solutions include working closely with your attorney to ensure all evidence is properly documented and presented. Try using a journal to document your pain and suffering, as this can also be used as additional evidence in your claim.
Key Takeaways:

• Secure legal help as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident to increase your chances of a higher settlement.
• Seek immediate medical treatment and keep all medical records for evidence.
• Understand your rights and legal options with the help of an attorney.
• Gather strong evidence such as eyewitness statements and police reports to strengthen your case.
• Be patient as the settlement process can be affected by factors like the severity of your injuries.

Key factors to strengthen a pedestrian accident case

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that over seventy – thousand pedestrians are injured and more than 4,000 are killed in pedestrian accidents each year in the United States. In such a scenario, strengthening a pedestrian accident case becomes crucial for victims to secure fair compensation.

Evidence – related factors

Eyewitness statements

Eyewitness statements can be incredibly powerful in a pedestrian accident case. They provide an unbiased account of what transpired at the time of the accident. For example, if an independent bystander saw a driver speeding through a crosswalk and hitting a pedestrian, their statement can confirm liability. Pro Tip: Immediately after an accident, try to get the contact information of any eyewitnesses present. This will make it easier for your attorney to follow up with them later. As recommended by legal research platforms, collecting eyewitness statements as soon as possible increases their reliability.

Photographs or videos of the accident scene

Visual evidence can speak volumes. Photographs or videos of the accident scene, such as skid marks, the position of the vehicles, and the location of the pedestrian, can provide clear proof of the circumstances. A study by legal experts has shown that cases with strong visual evidence are more likely to result in favorable settlements. For instance, in a recent pedestrian accident, surveillance footage from a nearby store clearly showed the driver running a red light, which was pivotal in proving the driver’s fault. Pro Tip: Use your smartphone to take detailed photos and videos from multiple angles at the accident scene.

Medical records detailing injuries

Medical records are essential as they document the extent of the injuries sustained by the pedestrian. These records serve as evidence of the financial impact of the accident, including medical bills, treatment plans, and projected future medical costs. Your lawyer can use them during settlement negotiations to get you the most compensation available. For example, if a pedestrian has suffered a spinal injury that requires long – term rehabilitation, the medical records will detail the associated costs. Pro Tip: Keep all medical records organized and share them promptly with your attorney.

Liability – related factors

Establishing liability is at the core of a pedestrian accident case. Factors such as driver negligence, including speeding, running red lights, or distracted driving, can be used to prove that the driver was at fault. In a notable case, a driver was found liable because they were texting while driving and failed to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Pro Tip: Your attorney can review traffic laws and accident circumstances to build a strong liability case.

Legal knowledge – related factors

Having a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney on your side is invaluable. A Google Partner – certified lawyer with years of experience can navigate the complex legal processes, deal with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected. For example, they know how to calculate the appropriate compensation for your injuries and damages. Pro Tip: When choosing an attorney, look for someone with a proven track record in pedestrian accident cases.

Injury – related factors

The severity of the injuries plays a significant role in the outcome of the case. Severe injuries typically require extended medical treatment, delaying settlement until the full extent of the injuries is known. For instance, if a pedestrian has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it may take months or even years to fully assess the long – term impacts. Pro Tip: Keep your attorney updated on any changes in your medical condition.

Pedestrian’s actions

The actions of the pedestrian at the time of the accident can also influence the case. If the pedestrian was following traffic rules, such as using a crosswalk and obeying traffic signals, it strengthens their case. On the other hand, if the pedestrian was jaywalking or not paying attention, it could potentially be used against them. Pro Tip: Always follow traffic rules when walking to protect yourself and strengthen your case in case of an accident.
Key Takeaways:

• Eyewitness statements, photos/videos, and medical records are crucial evidence in a pedestrian accident case.
• Establishing driver liability and having a knowledgeable attorney are key to a successful claim.
• The severity of injuries and the pedestrian’s actions at the time of the accident can also impact the outcome.
  Try our legal case assessment tool to see how strong your pedestrian accident case might be.

FAQ

What is a pedestrian accident attorney?

A pedestrian accident attorney is a legal professional specializing in cases where pedestrians are injured in accidents. They possess in – depth knowledge of traffic laws and personal injury regulations. These attorneys advocate for victims, helping them secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Detailed in our [Areas of expertise of pedestrian accident attorneys] analysis, they handle various aspects like dealing with insurance companies.

How to choose the right pedestrian accident attorney?

When choosing a pedestrian accident attorney, follow these steps: First, look for an attorney with a proven track record in pedestrian accident cases, as suggested by legal experts. Second, ensure they are Google Partner – certified, which indicates high – quality service. Third, check their experience in handling cases similar to yours. Unlike general lawyers, specialized pedestrian accident attorneys have the necessary expertise. Detailed in our [Areas of expertise of pedestrian accident attorneys] section.

Crosswalk injury lawyer vs hit – by – car lawyer: What’s the difference?

While both crosswalk injury lawyers and hit – by – car lawyers deal with pedestrian accidents, there are differences. A crosswalk injury lawyer focuses on cases within crosswalks, understanding unique traffic laws and potential municipal liability. According to traffic law analysis, they handle issues like faded crosswalk paint. A hit – by – car lawyer covers broader scenarios, regardless of the location. Detailed in our [Areas of expertise of pedestrian accident attorneys] section.

Steps for strengthening a pedestrian accident case?

To strengthen a pedestrian accident case:

1. Gather eyewitness statements right after the accident, as recommended by legal research platforms.
2. Take photos or videos of the accident scene from multiple angles.
3. Keep all medical records organized and share them with your attorney.
4. Follow traffic rules as a pedestrian.
   Unlike not taking these steps, this method can significantly boost your chances of a favorable settlement. Detailed in our [Key factors to strengthen a pedestrian accident case] analysis.