Did you know Texas ranks among the top 10 states with the highest pedestrian fatalities? In fact, according to a recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Texas saw a 9% increase in pedestrian deaths from 2018 to 2019.
As a Texan, this statistic is alarming and emphasizes the importance of understanding how to protect yourself as a pedestrian.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident, seeking legal help from an experienced Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer is crucial. A pedestrian accident case can be complex and challenging, requiring knowledge of both traffic laws and personal injury law.
In this article, we’ll explore what a Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer does, the unique challenges of these cases, why hiring one is essential, and how to choose the right lawyer for your case.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian accidents occur every day in the United States. In fact, according to a study conducted by the CDC, 5,977 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S. in 2017. That equates to approximately one death every 88 minutes. Additionally, an estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency departments for nonfatal injuries resulting from an accident with a car. Also, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash per trip.
So, who is most at risk for a pedestrian accident? Studies show that alcohol was a contributing factor in almost half of all pedestrian accidents. This means that half of all crashes resulting in a pedestrian death involved alcohol consumption from either the pedestrian or the driver. Further, 33% of fatal pedestrian crashes involved a pedestrian with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. Another risk factor for pedestrian accidents is pedestrian age. Pedestrians 65 years or older accounted for 20% of all pedestrian deaths in 2017. Pedestrians at this age also accounted for 10% of all pedestrian injuries within the same year. Higher motor vehicle speeds have also been shown to increase the likelihood of a pedestrian accident.
If you have been injured by a motor vehicle while you were walking on the side of the road or while on a designated walkway, contact a Texas pedestrian accident lawyer at Zinda Law Group today
How Can A Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help You
You need to understand what a skilled attorney can do for you after a devastating incident on foot. A Texas pedestrian accident lawyer has the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. They can assess your case, explain your legal options, and determine your compensation eligibility.
In addition to providing legal guidance, a pedestrian accident lawyer can represent you in court and negotiate with insurance companies. They deeply understand personal injury law and know how to build a strong case that maximizes your chances of receiving fair compensation.
With their help, you can focus on healing from your injuries while they fight for justice on your behalf. Now let’s move on to the subsequent section about the unique challenges of pedestrian accident cases.
The Challenges of a Pedestrian Accident Case
Navigating the nuances of a case involving someone on foot can be quite complex, as numerous variables are at play. These cases require thorough investigation to determine liability and compensation options. Factors such as traffic patterns, weather conditions, and even the pedestrian’s behavior must all be considered when building a case.
Pedestrian accident cases also have unique challenges because they often involve serious injuries or fatalities. In addition, insurance companies may try to shift blame onto the pedestrian to avoid paying out large settlements.
This is why hiring an experienced Texas pedestrian accident lawyer who understands these challenges and how to navigate them effectively is important. With their expertise, you can increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your damages.
Why Should You Hire A Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you want a greater chance of receiving the compensation you deserve and easing stress, hiring an experienced Texas pedestrian accident lawyer can help you win your case. Compensation eligibility is a complex issue that requires legal knowledge and expertise in order to navigate successfully.
By retaining legal representation, you can assess the full extent of the damages caused by the accident and determine what type of compensation is appropriate for your situation.
Legal representation advantages don’t stop there. An attorney experienced in pedestrian accidents can also help negotiate with insurance companies who may try to offer a low settlement or deny your claim altogether.
They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf. With their support, you’ll feel more confident throughout the entire process as they guide you through every step involved in the legal process.
Choosing the Right Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Choosing the right legal advocate for your case can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve after a devastating collision on foot. When searching for a Texas pedestrian accident lawyer, it’s important to ask questions and watch out for any red flags indicating an untrustworthy or inexperienced attorney.
First and foremost, communication is key when working with a lawyer. You want someone who will keep you updated throughout the entire legal process and answer any questions you may have. Additionally, ask about their experience handling pedestrian accident cases and their success rate in obtaining favorable client outcomes.
Red flags to watch out for include lawyers who guarantee specific results or pressure you into signing a contract without giving you time to review it thoroughly. Trust your instincts, and don’t settle for someone who doesn’t make you feel comfortable or confident in your abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Texas?
Pedestrian accidents are often tragic and can occur in a number of different ways. This may be due to the actions of a motor vehicle driver or to the pedestrian themselves. The right Texas pedestrian accident lawyer at Zinda Law Group can help investigate your case and determine the cause of the accident. Below are examples of common causes of pedestrian accidents:
1. Pedestrian’s Failure to Cross a Road at a Designated Crosswalk
As mentioned, not all pedestrian accidents are due to the negligence of a motor vehicle driver. For their safety, pedestrians should only cross a road at a designated crosswalk. Pedestrians who cross the road at undesignated locations may be hard to notice, resulting in an accident with a car or truck. On the other hand, drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and look for pedestrians while driving.
2. Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous and may result in harming yourself or others. Despite this, an estimated 10,511 alcohol-impaired driving deaths occurred in 2018 in the United States. Further, in 2018, approximately 12 million U.S. residents over the age of 16 reported driving under the influence of marijuana in the past 12 months, while 2.3 million reported driving under the influence of other drugs in the same time period. When a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, he or she is more likely to make poor judgement decisions, which may lead to an accident.
3. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving includes all activities that take the motor vehicle operator’s attention away from the act of driving. This is extremely dangerous, as 424,000 people were injured and 3,100 were killed due to a distracted driver in the United States in 2019. There are three main kinds of distracted driving:
- Visual. This means any distraction that takes your eyes off of the road. This may include reading a billboard or checking your makeup in the rearview mirror.
- Manual. This is any distraction that takes your hands off the wheel. Examples may include texting or fiddling with the radio.
- Cognitive. This is any distraction that takes your mind off driving. An example of cognitive distraction may include talking on your cellphone instead of paying attention to the road.
4. Driver Speeding
Almost 1 in 3 crash deaths in the United States involve speeding. In fact, in 2019, speeding was a contributing factor in 9,478 deaths. Although modern life often requires juggling a busy schedule, speeding endangers everyone on the road. Speed limits are put into place to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Speeding also causes the driver to have less control over the vehicle and prolongs stopping times. No matter how busy you are, or where you need to be, keep your speed at, or below, the speed limit.
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident and believe the motor vehicle driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Hiring the right Texas pedestrian accident attorney is an important step in your legal process. Our team can help investigate your case, determine who was at fault, and build you the strongest case possible to get you the compensation you deserve.
Can a Pedestrian Be Found Partially at Fault for the Accident?
Regarding pedestrian accidents, comparative negligence is often a factor that must be considered. This means that the pedestrian may be found partially at fault for the accident if they were not paying attention or disobeying traffic laws.
However, it’s important to note that even if a pedestrian is found partially responsible for the accident, they may still be entitled to compensation for their injuries and damages.
It’s crucial to seek legal advice in these situations, as legal implications may need to be addressed. As advocates for those injured in accidents, we understand the importance of ensuring you receive fair compensation and will work tirelessly on your behalf.
How Long does It Typically Take for a Pedestrian Accident Case to Be Resolved in Texas?
Several factors can affect how long the process takes when resolving a pedestrian accident case. One of the most significant factors is the severity of the injuries sustained by the victim. Sometimes, it may take longer to settle if the victim requires ongoing medical treatment or if their injuries prevent them from returning to work.
Another factor impacting resolution time is whether or not fault is disputed in the case. If liability is unclear, it may take longer for a resolution to be reached. Furthermore, seeking legal representation early on in the process can help speed up resolution time as attorneys have experience negotiating with insurance companies and handling personal injury claims.
At our firm, we understand how important it is for victims of pedestrian accidents to receive fair compensation for their injuries and losses. That’s why we encourage anyone involved in such an accident to seek legal representation immediately. Our experienced attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve.
Are There Any Special Laws or Regulations that Apply to Pedestrian Accidents in Texas?
When it comes to pedestrian accidents in Texas, there are a few special laws and regulations that apply. Pedestrian safety initiatives have been implemented to help reduce the number of pedestrian accidents on our roads. These initiatives include crosswalks, traffic signals, and speed limits in certain areas.
Additionally, drivers are liable for any injuries or damages caused by their negligence or reckless behavior while operating a vehicle. This means that if a driver hits a pedestrian while texting or under the influence, they can be held responsible for any harm caused. Both drivers and pedestrians need to be aware of these laws and take necessary precautions to ensure everyone’s safety.
What Kind of Compensation Can a Pedestrian Accident Victim Expect in Texas?
The aftermath can be devastating when a pedestrian is involved in an accident. Medical expenses can quickly pile up, and lost wages can make it difficult to make ends meet. However, if you are a pedestrian accident victim in Texas, there is hope for compensation.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering. While every case is unique and results vary, seeking legal help from a qualified attorney who can guide you through the process and fight for your rights as a victim is important.
Contact Zinda Law Group Today If You Have Been Injured In A Pedestrian Accident
If you have been harmed due to a drunk driver, an inattentive driver, or someone who was otherwise distracted while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, you may be facing hefty medical charges and significant therapy costs. In order to receive compensation for these damages, you will need to file a personal injury claim on time. To be successful in this claim, you may need to hire the right Texas pedestrian accident attorney.
After being injured due to the negligence or intentional actions of another person, you may need an experienced personal injury attorney to fight on your behalf. Call a Texas injury attorney at Zinda Law Group today. We have the skills and resources necessary to help guide you through entire legal process, from the initial filing to the final judgment. We are here for you and your family during this difficult process and to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Contact us at (800) 863-5312 to discuss your potential personal injury case. Your initial consultation is 100% free and you do not pay us anything unless we are successful in winning your case. That is our “No Win, No Fee Guarantee.”
Meetings with attorneys are available by appointment only.
