At East Valley Injury Law, we have represented pedestrians hit by vehicles in crosswalks, on sidewalks, in parking lots, and on dirt shoulders. Matt Riggs here. While teaching each of my six children how to drive, I begin by asking this question: “What are you about to do?” Their usual answer, “Drive a car.” I quickly correct them and they never forget: “You are about to drive a Killing Machine!”
There are few defenses available to drivers of vehicles who hit a person walking on a sidewalk, yet the insurance industry does their best to muddy the waters. One argument they like to make is that the person was walking (or riding a bicycle or scooter) against traffic. We never accept that argument and hold them accountable for their actions.
When a car-pedestrian accident occurs in a crosswalk, the insurance company will often attempt to put blame on the pedestrian due to walking on a “don’t walk” signal, or to put a percentage of fault on the pedestrian for not paying attention to their surroundings. In Arizona, juries are allowed to put percentages of fault on the various parties in litigation, so the insurance companies and attorneys will do all they can to reduce the percentage of fault on their insured drivers.
With decades of experience in our firm, we have seen it all. We understand the tactics employed by insurance companies and their attorneys and we expose them for what they are. When necessary, we hire accident reconstruction experts and other experts to help us fight the battle.
If you’ve been hit by a car as a pedestrian (in a crosswalk, on the sidewalk, or on a dirt shoulder), our experienced attorneys are here to help. You deserve the best representation possible to ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life. Let us advocate for you.
Pedestrian accidents occur when an individual who is walking or using other means of non-motorized transportation is struck by a vehicle. These accidents can happen in a variety of locations, including:
Unlike individuals inside a vehicle, pedestrians are vulnerable to the full force of a collision, leading to injuries ranging from broken bones and head trauma to spinal cord damage and, tragically, death.
In Arizona, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common. With heavy traffic, busy intersections, and a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in some areas, the risks for pedestrians are high. If you’ve been injured, it’s crucial to seek legal help from a skilled attorney who can guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries, high medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering. Navigating the legal process following an accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are already coping with the physical and emotional toll of your injuries. At East Valley Injury Law, our skilled attorneys will handle every aspect of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Here are some of the key reasons why hiring an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is essential:
Pedestrian accidents often involve complex legal and medical issues. Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of Arizona’s traffic laws and personal injury regulations, and we know how to handle these cases effectively.
We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident. This includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, video footage, medical records, and accident reconstruction reports. By building a strong case, we can prove liability and demonstrate the full extent of your injuries.
Insurance companies are more focused on protecting their bottom line than paying fair compensation to injured victims. Our team will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you are not taken advantage of.
We will fight for the full compensation you deserve. This includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future medical costs associated with your injuries. In cases of wrongful death, we will work to secure justice for your loved one’s passing and help provide financial support for your family’s future.
Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, and determining liability is a crucial part of the legal process. Some common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or may disregard traffic signals, leading to accidents. In many cases, drivers are distracted by their phones or other distractions, speeding, or running red lights.
Pedestrians may be injured when drivers fail to stop for red lights or stop signs at crosswalks, putting pedestrians in harm’s way.
Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs are far more likely to cause accidents, as they have impaired judgment, slowed reflexes, and reduced awareness of their surroundings. When a driver is DUI, we are able to force insurance companies to pay more for your injuries than they would if the driver was sober.
Hazardous road conditions such as uneven sidewalks, lack of proper signage, or poorly lit areas can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. Property owners and municipalities may be liable for failing to maintain safe conditions.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your health and your legal rights:
Always prioritize your health and seek medical care immediately, even if you don’t feel injured right away. Symptoms may not be immediately manifest. It is important to seek early treatment to prevent long-term complications.
Contact the police to file a report. Without a police report, the at-fault driver can change their story making it a “he said/she said” situation which is difficult to prove. An official report is an important record and can help clarify the details for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to vehicles. Detailed photos can provide crucial evidence to help support your version of events in the claims process.
Collect the contact and insurance information of the driver involved, as well as any witnesses. Having accurate contact details will help with follow-up communication and ensure you have the necessary information for claims and legal actions.
Reach out to a trusted pedestrian accident lawyer at East Valley Injury Law to discuss your case. We can help guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At East Valley Injury Law, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to victims of pedestrian accidents. Our team will fight tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you get back on your feet and secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
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