Pedestrian accidents, unfortunately, are a frequent and often devastating occurrence. Understanding the common causes of these accidents and knowing how a pedestrian accident lawyer can assist in the aftermath is crucial for victims seeking justice and compensation.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents
- Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, eating, adjusting their GPS, or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street or walking along the road.
- Speeding: When drivers exceed speed limits, they have less time to react to unexpected events, including pedestrians crossing the road. High speeds increase the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
- Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents occur at crosswalks and intersections where drivers fail to yield the right of way. This failure can be due to driver inattention, ignorance of traffic laws, or aggressive driving behavior.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Impaired drivers have reduced reaction times, poor judgment, and decreased awareness of their surroundings, making them more likely to cause pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in low visibility conditions such as nighttime, during bad weather, or in poorly lit areas. Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians, leading to collisions.
- Left Turns: Drivers making left turns at intersections often focus on oncoming traffic, neglecting to look for pedestrians crossing the street. This split-second oversight can result in serious accidents.
How A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
A pedestrian accident can lead to severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. A pedestrian accident lawyer provides essential assistance in several ways:
- Investigating the Accident: A skilled lawyer from Council & Associates, LLC will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and police reports. This comprehensive approach helps establish the facts of the case and determine liability.
- Proving Fault: Establishing fault in pedestrian accidents can be complex. An experienced lawyer understands traffic laws and can identify violations that led to the accident. They work to prove the driver’s negligence, ensuring the victim’s rights are upheld.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A pedestrian accident lawyer negotiates with insurers on behalf of the victim to ensure a fair settlement. They handle all communications and advocate for the victim’s best interests.
- Calculating Damages: A lawyer helps assess the full extent of the victim’s damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. This comprehensive calculation ensures that all aspects of the victim’s suffering are considered.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a pedestrian accident lawyer is prepared to take the case to court. They will file the necessary legal documents, represent the victim in court, and work tirelessly to secure a favorable verdict.
- Providing Support and Guidance: Beyond legal representation, a lawyer offers emotional support and guidance throughout the recovery process. They ensure that victims understand their rights and the legal process, providing peace of mind during a challenging time.
Pedestrian accidents can have life-altering consequences. However, with the assistance of a knowledgeable and dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer, victims can navigate the legal complexities, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation they deserve.