One of the most frequent personal injury cases our Lone Star Injury Attorneys manage in Texas pertains to pedestrian accidents. Tragically, many of these incidents are catastrophic, leading to life-threatening injuries or even fatalities. Unlike bikers or vehicle motorists, pedestrians have no protective gear or equipment, leaving them particularly vulnerable in the event of a collision.
Some injured pedestrians may believe they were at fault for their accidents, but this is often not the case. Based on our extensive experience, the majority of these accidents result from the negligence of drivers or other road users. It’s rare for a pedestrian to be primarily at fault, and even when they are partially responsible, other parties often bear a higher standard of care. An experienced Katy pedestrian accident lawyer can analyze the specific circumstances of your case and help determine liability.
Pedestrian accidents happen frequently and can occur for a wide range of reasons. Whether it’s being struck by a distracted driver at a crosswalk or tripping over debris at a construction site, negligence by motorists is the leading cause of pedestrian accidents in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, at least 3,600 people are killed annually by drivers, with thousands more suffering serious injuries.
It’s vital to recognize that not all pedestrian accidents are caused by third parties. Your own negligence might also contribute to your injuries. For instance, if you were hit by a vehicle while carelessly crossing the street and engaging with your phone, the defense might argue that you share the blame. In such situations, retaining a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney who understands comparative fault is crucial. Even if you are found to be partially at fault, so long as your responsibility is less than 50%, you are still eligible for compensation.
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Katy, it’s essential to protect your legal rights, even if you’re uncertain about pursuing a lawsuit. The actions you take immediately following the accident can play a crucial role in building a successful personal injury claim. Here are the three vital steps you should follow:
If you sustain serious injuries, call 911 so emergency services can find you and provide necessary medical care. Beyond ensuring your immediate well-being, seeking prompt medical attention also helps create a record of your injuries, connecting them directly to the accident. Defense attorneys may argue that your injuries stem from a preexisting condition, and having medical reports and doctor’s testimonials can help refute such claims.
Reporting serious accidents to the appropriate local authorities is not only a legal requirement but also allows for a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case. A police report provides solid evidence that the accident occurred, and the officers’ findings, including eyewitness statements, can help determine liability. While your Katy pedestrian accident attorney may conduct their own investigation, it’s crucial to obtain a copy of the final police report for your records.
No matter who is at fault, hiring a reputable Katy pedestrian accident attorney is a wise decision. An experienced lawyer brings invaluable expertise to the litigation process and acts as your advocate. A trustworthy attorney will represent you on a contingency fee basis, meaning they are focused on securing the compensation you need, as their fees are only collected once you are awarded compensation. Any discussions regarding your case will be confidential, and legal strategies will be tailored to the unique circumstances of your accident.
Pedestrian accidents often leave indelible marks on the lives of victims. Beyond coping with serious physical injuries, many individuals and families must grapple with significant financial burdens that can even lead to bankruptcy. Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible parties is a vital way to recover monetary compensation to help secure your future. Compensation may be sought for the following:
Furthermore, if a loved one was fatally injured in a pedestrian accident, you may also have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. Our pedestrian accident attorneys can assist you in substantiating your claim and seeking the closure and compensation you need.
If you have unfortunately become a victim of negligence by a motorist or another road user, you may be entitled to legal compensation. The most effective way to understand the full scope of your legal options is to consult with our Katy pedestrian accident attorneys. Contact us today to schedule a free, one-on-one consultation.
