Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits

While pedestrians have the right-of-way in most situations on roadways, this does not necessarily keep them safe from harm. Vehicle accidents involving pedestrians occur every day, injuring and killing thousands of people per year. In 2016, almost 6,000 people lost their lives in pedestrian accidents, and it is estimated that well over a hundred thousand were treated in emergency rooms for injuries. When a pedestrian accident occurs, the driver of the vehicle is usually liable for any injuries.

Pedestrians are given the right-of-way in most circumstances since they have no protection against a motorized vehicle. Drivers are cautioned to look for pedestrians at street corners and other crossing spots, as well as in residential neighborhoods. According to NTHSA statistics, most fatal pedestrian accidents involve passenger vehicles, occur at night and in urban areas. However, an accident can occur anytime and anywhere when a driver is not paying attention to his or her surroundings and the pedestrians on the road.

Fault in Pedestrian Injury Accidents

While pedestrians do have the right-of-way in many circumstances, not all pedestrian crashes are the fault of the driver. If a pedestrian runs in front of a car, there may be no way for the driver to avoid a collision. However, it is always important to collect information about the accident and the driver in any pedestrian injury accident. If the driver was intoxicated or driving without a license, they may be liable for any accident if they should not have been behind the wheel. Common carrier vehicles like buses or taxis have a higher responsibility for providing safety on the road and may be liable in pedestrian accidents.

Conley Griggs Partin LLP offers representation for pedestrians that have been seriously injured by a driver. If you were injured or lost a loved one to a pedestrian vehicle crash, contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. If we handle your case, we will work diligently to obtain compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages.