If you are ever hit by a car while walking, knowing your rights and what to do is essential. The best thing to do is to seek legal help from a pedestrian accident lawyer in Riverside, CA. They will be able to walk you through the process of filing a claim and getting the compensation you deserve. They will also be able to help you if the driver who hit you is uninsured or underinsured.
What Are The Major Factors Of Pedestrian Injuries?
Several significant factors can contribute to pedestrian injuries. These include:
Poorly Designed Or Maintained Roads And Sidewalks
Poorly designed or maintained roads and sidewalks are a significant factor. Poorly designed roads can have inadequate lighting, obstructed views, or other hazards that make it difficult for pedestrians to see and navigate safely. Poorly maintained streets and sidewalks can also create trip hazards or obstacles that can cause pedestrians to trip and fall.
Distracted Driving
This is another major factor in pedestrian injuries. Drivers distracted by their cell phones, GPS devices, or other objects in the car are more likely to collide with pedestrians.
Intoxicated Driving
This is another leading cause of pedestrian injuries. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to make poor decisions and be less aware of their surroundings, increasing the risk of hitting a pedestrian.
Speeding
This is another major factor that can contribute to pedestrian injuries. When drivers are speeding, they have less time to react to obstacles or pedestrians on the road and are more likely to cause severe injuries if they hit someone.
Failure To Yield
This is another common cause of pedestrian injuries. Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks or other locations are more likely to cause collisions.
Aggressive Driving
This is another dangerous behavior that can lead to pedestrian injuries. Drivers who tailgate, make unsafe lane changes, or engage in other aggressive behaviors are more likely to cause accidents.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents are another primary type of accident resulting in pedestrian injuries. These accidents often occur when drivers fail to see or yield to bicyclists, causing the bicyclist to swerve into the pedestrian. In some cases, the bicyclist may be at fault for the accident if riding recklessly or failing to follow traffic laws. If you are injured in a bicycle accident, you can also speak with a bicycle accident lawyer. They will be able to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
These are just a few of the significant factors that can contribute to pedestrian injuries. Suppose you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. In that case, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you explore your legal options and recover the compensation you deserve is essential.
Types Of Vehicle-Related Pedestrian Injuries
There are many different types of injuries that pedestrians can suffer in collisions with vehicles. Some of the most common include:
Head Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are one of the most severe types of damage a pedestrian can suffer in a collision. TBIs can occur when the head strikes an object or when the sudden movement of the head jars the brain. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries that can lead to long-term disability or even death.
Spinal Cord Injuries
These injuries can occur when the spine is damaged in a collision. They can range from minor injuries that cause temporary pain or numbness to paralysis.
Broken Bones
Pedestrians can suffer broken bones in collisions with vehicles. Broken bones can range from minor fractures that heal quickly to severe injuries that require surgery or result in long-term disability.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding is another severe type of injury that can occur in pedestrian collisions. Internal bleeding can occur when organs are damaged in the crash or when blood vessels are ruptured. Internal bleeds can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Lacerations
Lacerations are deep cuts that can occur when pedestrians are hit by vehicles. They can range from minor scratches that require stitches to severe wounds that require surgery.
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Once you have received treatment for your injuries, you should also speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.
Who Is At Risk For Pedestrian Accidents?
Anyone who walks or jogs on public roads is at risk of a pedestrian accident. However, some groups are more likely to be involved in these accidents than others. For example, seniors and children are more likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents than adults. This is because they may not have the same awareness of their surroundings and may be more likely to cross the street unsafely. Additionally, those intoxicated or distracted are more likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents.
What To Do If You Are Involved In A Pedestrian Accident
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, there are a few things you should do:
1. Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, they could be more severe than they appear.
2. Gather Evidence
If you are able, gather evidence at the scene of the accident. This can include taking pictures of the accident scene, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and collecting the insurance information for the driver.
3. Speak With An Attorney
Suppose you have been injured in a pedestrian accident. In that case, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you explore your legal options and recover the compensation you deserve is essential.
4. File A Police Report
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to file a police report. This can provide valuable evidence if you pursue a personal injury claim.
5. Do Not Give A Statement To The Insurance Company
It is essential to avoid stating the insurance company until you have spoken with an attorney. Insurance companies will often use your information against you to minimize the compensation you recover.
Pedestrian accidents can be severe and life-changing events. Suppose you have been involved in a pedestrian accident. In that case, speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you explore your legal options and recover the compensation you deserve is essential.
What Is The Benefit Of Consulting A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
The most significant benefit is that you will have an experienced legal professional who can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to trial if necessary. A pedestrian accident lawyer will also be able to help you recover damages for your injuries, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, don't hesitate to contact a lawyer today to discuss your case. They will be able to answer any questions you have and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact An Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney In Riverside, CA
Chris and Frank, Accident Attorneys, have represented many people involved in pedestrian accidents. Their attorneys understand the laws regarding pedestrian rights and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. They know what you're going through. The injuries from being hit by a car can be debilitating, and dealing with insurance companies is confusing and frustrating. That's why they want to help. Let them handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on healing. They will fight to get you the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact them today for a free consultation.
