Fayetteville Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

When a pedestrian is involved in a traffic accident, severe injuries or even death can result since nothing is protecting them from the force of the impact. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), approximately 12 percent of car accidents in Arkansas involve pedestrians. This is largely due to poor infrastructure, higher speed limits, and motorists who are driving while distracted.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

All motorists and pedestrians are expected to obey the rules of the road, particularly in busy urban areas where pedestrians are more likely to be crossing the street or walking along the side of the road. Pedestrian accidents can also occur in rural areas with poor visibility due to the time of day, windy road conditions, or inclement weather. When motorists and pedestrians understand the common causes of pedestrian accidents, they can take proactive steps to prioritize safety and avoid accidents.

The following are examples of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:

  • Drunk driving
  • Driving while under the influence of drugs
  • Distracted driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Speeding and reckless driving
  • Poorly designed intersections and roadways
  • Poor city infrastructure

What Are Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents?

If you are involved in a minor fender bender, you may walk away from the accident with only minor scrapes or no injuries at all. However, even a low-speed accident can cause severe injuries to a pedestrian. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the more devastating the resulting injuries are likely to be.

The following are some of the most common injuries pedestrians can suffer if they are hit by a car:

  • Broken bones
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Head and neck injuries
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Internal organ damage
  • Amputation and disfigurement
  • Road rash

Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Several parties may be at fault for a pedestrian accident. In some cases, the pedestrian may be at fault for the accident. However, in the majority of accidents involving a pedestrian, the driver is at fault, although there are situations where multiple parties may share the blame, including:

  • The driver of the vehicle how hit the pedestrian.
  • Other vehicles involved in the accident.
  • The city or county responsible for maintaining road conditions and traffic signals.
  • The driver’s employer.

It is important to understand that Arkansas is a comparative negligence state, which means that if you are 50 percent or more responsible for causing the accident, you will be ineligible to recover compensation for your injuries. For example, if you were hit by a car while crossing an intersection and were found to be 20 percent at fault because you did not use the crosswalk when crossing the street, you will still be able to recover financial compensation. However, your total damages will be reduced by 20 percent.

What Steps Should I Take if I am Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?

If you were hit by a car as a pedestrian, it is crucial that you take the following steps:

  • Move to a safe spot. If you are physically able to do so, move to the side of the road out of the path of oncoming traffic.
  • Call 911. Report the accident so that police and an ambulance arrive at the accident scene as soon as possible. Make sure that you get immediate medical attention, even if your injuries do not seem life-threatening.
  • Talk to the responding police officer. Give the responding police officer a detailed account of the moments leading up to the accident and who you believe was responsible for hitting you.
  • Gather evidence. Take pictures of the accident scene, including your injuries, the position of the vehicle that hit you, and the location of the accident.
  • Exchange contact information. Share contact information with the driver responsible for causing the accident and any other motorists who may have been involved.
  • Talk to witnesses. If witnesses saw the accident occur, ask if they would be willing to provide an official statement and get their contact information.
  • Keep a record of medical expenses and lost wages. Ensure you keep copies of all medical costs associated with your injuries and lost wages if you cannot return to work.
  • Contact a Fayetteville pedestrian accident lawyer. A dedicated pedestrian lawyer will protect your legal rights, help you navigate every step of the claims process, and negotiate the best possible settlement outcome so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

The Fayetteville Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm Represent Victims of Pedestrian Accidents

If you or a loved one was severely injured in a pedestrian accident, it is highly recommended that you contact the Fayetteville pedestrian accident lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm. We will review the case details, determine who is responsible for causing the accident, and pursue the maximum financial damages you are entitled to. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 479-521-7727 or contact us online. Based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.