Pedestrian Accidents

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Pedestrian accidents occur when a person on foot is struck by a vehicle, bicycle, or other motorized device. These incidents often happen in crosswalks, intersections, parking lots, or along roadsides. Due to the lack of protection, pedestrians are at a high risk of sustaining serious injuries in these collisions.

Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable individuals on the road, often suffering severe injuries when struck by motor vehicles. Pedestrian accidents can result in life-altering consequences, from physical injuries to emotional trauma.  

Most pedestrian accidents are caused by driver negligence or recklessness, including:

• Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions can cause drivers to miss pedestrians crossing the street.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore crosswalks or pedestrian right-of-way rules often cause accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speeds reduce reaction times and increase the severity of collisions.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers are a leading cause of pedestrian accidents.
• Unsafe Left or Right Turns: Drivers turning at intersections may fail to notice pedestrians in their path.
• Poor Visibility: Nighttime or inclement weather conditions can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Improper Road Design: Lack of crosswalks, traffic signals, or proper signage can increase the risk of accidents.

Pedestrian accidents often lead to catastrophic injuries due to the impact of a vehicle. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage and bleeding
• Severe cuts, bruises, and lacerations
• Emotional trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities.
2. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement and ensure an official report is filed.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident location, vehicle involved, and visible injuries.
4. Collect Information: Gather contact and insurance information from the driver, as well as any witnesses.
5. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies: Let your attorney handle all communications to protect your claim.
6. Consult an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney: An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Wrongful death damages (for surviving family members)

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident is crucial for recovering compensation. Responsible parties may include:

• The Driver: If they were speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent.
• Vehicle Owners: In some cases, the owner of the vehicle may share liability.
• Government Entities: Poor road design, lack of crosswalks, or faulty traffic signals can lead to liability for municipalities.
• Third Parties: In rare cases, other factors like a bicyclist or another pedestrian may contribute to the accident.

At the Law Office of Margarita E. Tapia, PLLC, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured pedestrians. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Extensive Experience: We have successfully handled numerous pedestrian accident cases.
• Thorough Investigation: We gather all evidence, including witness statements and accident reports, to build a strong case.
• Personalized Support: We understand the emotional and physical challenges you face and provide compassionate guidance.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay anything upfront—we only get paid if you receive compensation.

Pedestrian accidents can be devastating, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At the Law Office of Margarita E. Tapia, PLLC, we are here to stand by your side, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Contact us today at (512) 528-5064 for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal challenges while you focus on your recovery.