Pedestrian accidents often result in devastating injuries. When a person on foot is struck by a car, truck, or other motor vehicle, the lack of physical protection can lead to catastrophic or even fatal harm. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a negligent driver or unsafe conditions, it is critical to take immediate steps to protect your rights. The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial stress that follow a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming—but you do not have to face this process alone.
At Howell Justice, our pedestrian accident injury lawyers represent individuals who have been seriously hurt while walking, crossing streets, or traveling through parking lots and roadways. We understand the unique challenges pedestrian accident victims face and are committed to holding negligent parties accountable.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions pedestrians have after a serious accident.
Advice From Pedestrian Accident Lawyers: What Should You Do After a Pedestrian Accident?
What you do immediately after a pedestrian accident can significantly impact your health and your legal claim. Our attorneys recommend taking the following steps whenever possible:
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Seek immediate medical attention. Pedestrian injuries are often severe and may not be fully apparent right away.
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Call law enforcement and report the accident. An official report creates crucial documentation.
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Document the scene. Take photos and videos of the vehicle involved, traffic signals, crosswalks, road conditions, and visible injuries.
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Gather witness information. Obtain names and contact details without discussing fault or injuries.
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Avoid speaking with insurance companies. Do not provide recorded statements or sign documents before consulting a lawyer.
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Contact a pedestrian accident injury attorney promptly. Early legal involvement helps preserve evidence and protect your claim.
Why Do I Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
Pedestrian accident cases are often more complex than they appear. Insurance companies frequently attempt to blame pedestrians by alleging jaywalking, distraction, or failure to follow traffic signals—even when the driver was clearly at fault.
Our attorneys conduct detailed investigations to uncover the truth. This may include reviewing traffic laws, vehicle speed data, surveillance footage, witness statements, and roadway design. At Howell Justice, we work to counter unfair assumptions and present a clear, evidence-based case that proves negligence.
We are prepared to negotiate aggressively and take cases to trial when insurance companies refuse to make fair settlement offers.
How Much Do Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Cost?
Pedestrian accident victims often face substantial medical bills, lost income, and ongoing treatment costs. Many people worry they cannot afford legal representation during this time.
At Howell Justice, there are no upfront legal fees. Our pedestrian accident injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. If there is no recovery, you owe nothing.
How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Claim Worth?
The value of a pedestrian accident claim depends on many factors, including the severity of injuries, long-term effects, and the extent of negligence involved. Injured pedestrians may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy, and future medical needs.
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Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, trauma, scarring, and loss of enjoyment of life.
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Lost wages and earning capacity: Income lost during recovery and future losses if injuries prevent a return to work.
An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can review your case and help determine the compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often occur due to negligent or reckless behavior, including:
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Distracted driving
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Failure to yield at crosswalks
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Speeding or aggressive driving
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Driving under the influence
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Running red lights or stop signs
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Unsafe turns or backing up
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Poor visibility or inadequate lighting
Howell Justice gathers evidence to prove how the accident occurred and who should be held responsible.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
Liability in pedestrian accident cases may involve multiple parties, including:
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Negligent drivers
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Commercial vehicle operators
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Employers of on-duty drivers
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Government entities responsible for roadway or sidewalk maintenance
Proving liability requires showing that a party breached their duty of care and that this negligence directly caused the pedestrian’s injuries.
Types of Damages in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Injured pedestrians may seek economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and future earning losses. In serious injury cases, expert testimony may be used to assess long-term financial impact.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages address pain and suffering, emotional trauma, permanent disability, scarring, and diminished quality of life. Although harder to quantify, they reflect the lasting consequences of a pedestrian accident.
When Are Punitive Damages Awarded?
Punitive damages may be awarded when the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless or egregious, such as drunk driving or intentional disregard for pedestrian safety. These damages are intended to punish wrongdoing and deter similar behavior.
Determining a Pedestrian Accident Settlement
Settlement negotiations take into account medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and the long-term effects of the injuries. Initial settlement offers are often insufficient. Howell Justice prepares every case as if it will go to trial, allowing us to negotiate from a position of strength.
Shared and Comparative Negligence
Insurance companies often attempt to argue that a pedestrian was partially responsible for the accident. Any percentage of fault assigned may reduce compensation. Our legal team challenges unfair fault determinations and works to protect your right to maximum recovery.
The Dangers of Giving Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters commonly request recorded statements after pedestrian accidents. These statements are frequently used to minimize or deny claims. Howell Justice strongly advises against providing any recorded statements without legal representation.
The Benefits of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Injury Lawyer
Pedestrian accident victims who hire experienced legal counsel often recover significantly more compensation than those who handle claims alone. A lawyer can help by:
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Conducting a thorough investigation
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Preserving critical evidence
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Managing insurance communications
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Identifying all liable parties
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Assisting with appropriate medical care referrals
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Pedestrian Accident Injury Lawyer
Pedestrian accident cases are time-sensitive, and evidence can disappear quickly. You deserve an advocate who understands the serious nature of pedestrian injuries and will fight for accountability.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Howell Justice today for a free consultation. We are ready to pursue the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
