One of the most common personal injury cases our Lone Star Injury Attorneys handle in Texas involves pedestrian accidents. Sadly, most of these accidents are catastrophic, resulting in life-threatening injuries and sometimes death. Pedestrians have no protective gear or equipment like other road users such as bikers and vehicle motorists. In the event that an accident occurs, their bodies do not have a shield to protect them.
While some pedestrians may feel like they were responsible for their injuries, this is often not the case. Based on the numerous cases we have handled, a majority of these accidents are caused by negligence on the part of drivers or other road users. Very rarely is a pedestrian at fault. And even when they are, the other parties have a higher standard of care. An experienced Katy pedestrian accident lawyer will help answer the big questions of liability for your case.
Pedestrian accidents are a common occurrence and occur due to a variety of reasons. One may be hit by a distracted driver in a crosswalk, or even slip and fall over debris in a construction site. Negligence on the part of motorists is by far the leading cause of pedestrian accidents in Texas. The Texas Department of Transportation indicates that at least 3,600 people are killed each year due to drivers, with thousands of others sustaining serious injuries.
It’s also very important to note that not all pedestrian accidents are caused by third parties. Your own negligence may also contribute to your injuries. For example, if you were carelessly crossing the road while texting or speaking on phone, and you are knocked down by a vehicle, the defense may argue that you were at fault. In such scenarios, it’s best to retain the services of a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney who knows how comparative fault works. Even if you are found to be partly at fault for the accident, as long as your fault is less than 50%, you are still entitled to compensation.
If you are involved in a Katy pedestrian accident, you must protect your legal rights even when you are not sure about filing a lawsuit. The steps you take can be instrumental in the buildup of your personal injury claim. The most crucial things you should do include:
If you are severely injured, call 911 so the EMS can locate you and administer the necessary medical aid. Apart from safeguarding your wellbeing, having your injuries evaluated and treated is proof that the harm you suffered is directly related to the accident. The defense counsel may argue that your injuries are from a preexisting condition. As such, the only proof that can distance you from such allegations is medical reports and doctor’s testimonials.
It’s a legal requirement that serious accidents be reported to the necessary local authorities. This allows for comprehensive investigations on the facts around your case. It also acts as evidence that such an accident occurred. The police will investigate and talk to eyewitnesses to determine liability. Although your Katy pedestrian accident attorney will run parallel investigations, it’s also important that you retain a copy of the police final report.
Regardless of who is at fault, you should retain a reputable Katy pedestrian accident attorney. Their experience and expertise are great assets when it comes to litigation. A good attorney has your best interests at heart, and as such, will only represent you on a contingency fee arrangement. This means their priority is getting you the compensation you need since it’s only then that the attorney can collect attorneys fees. Your case will be discussed confidentially and based on the unique circumstances of your accident.
Most pedestrian accidents leave a permanent mark on the lives of victims. Apart from having to contend with serious physical harm, there is also the huge financial implication that often leaves some families bankrupt. Filing a personal injury case against the at-fault parties is a great way of recovering monetary compensation that aids in securing your future. You may be compensated for:
Additionally, you may also file a wrongful death claim if your loved one was killed in a similar accident. Our pedestrian accident attorneys may help you prove your claim and bring you the closure you need.
If you have been an unfortunate victim of the negligence of a motorist or any other road user, you may have a legal claim. The best way to know the full extent of your legal options is by retaining our Katy pedestrian accident attorney. Call us today for a free one-on-one consultation.
