Richmond Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When you’re walking down the street toward your destination, the last thing on your mind is getting into an accident.

Pedestrian accidents may happen in a split second, but the consequences can last a lifetime. If you’re the victim of a pedestrian accident, you’ll quickly find yourself on a journey to recovery, while also bearing the burden of medical bills and other financial losses. 

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident and wondering, “Is there a trustworthy pedestrian accident lawyer near me?” Commonwealth Law Group has the answer you’re looking for.

If you were struck by an automobile, a Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to help. Experienced personal injury attorneys could work to gather the evidence needed to pursue fair payment for your losses.

Pedestrians Deserve the Same Respect as Everyone Else on the Road

Drivers have a duty to drive responsibly to keep themselves free from harm and also respect others on the road. That duty includes other drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and also pedestrians.

Pedestrians are even the subject of Virginia laws that give them certain rights — for example, the right of way when crossing the street. 

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Pedestrian accidents can happen for several reasons. Whatever the cause, because pedestrians have no physical protection from potential accidents, they usually suffer significant injuries.

Traffic laws exist to protect every person on the roads and the surrounding areas. Just as drivers have the obligation to avoid placing other motorists at risk, they must also drive in a way that does not threaten the well-being of pedestrians.

Road-Related Incidents

Roads and traffic signs and signals are critical to pedestrian safety. Issues with any of the following can result in harm to pedestrians:

• Missing signage
• Lack of sufficient lighting
• Missing or closed sidewalks
• Dangerous construction zones
• Broken or malfunctioning traffic signals

Liability for road-related causes can lie with governmental entities, including the county or city. 

Defective Products

Sometimes, a pedestrian accident is neither the fault of the pedestrian nor the driver who hits them. Vehicles or certain parts of a car can malfunction, causing drivers to lose control and resulting in an accident. 

If a product defect or malfunction causes a pedestrian’s injuries, it’s possible to seek compensation from the party or parties responsible, including the vehicle or parts designers or manufacturers.

Driver Negligence

Drivers’ actions most often cause pedestrian accidents. Drivers can cause pedestrians injury as a result of any of the following:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Aggressive driving
• Driving while fatigued
• Driving under the influence
• Violating traffic signs and laws

Liability can still be tricky, even when it’s clear that a driver caused a pedestrian’s injuries. In some cases, more than one driver can be liable. A pedestrian accident lawyer can review the details of the incident to determine who caused your accident and how it happened. 

Injuries resulting from a pedestrian accident are often severe, as pedestrians have no protection in the event of an accident. The most common injuries include:

• Head injuries
• Internal injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Amputation injuries
• Fractured or broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Paralysis and spinal cord injuries

Injuries from a pedestrian accident can leave a victim facing extensive medical treatment and mounting medical bills. Some injuries also require treatment well into the future and could result in life-altering changes. 

The more significant the injuries, the more you’ll feel them financially. A pedestrian accident attorney can determine the monetary value of your losses and work diligently to obtain maximum compensation on your behalf. 

If you suffer injuries in a pedestrian accident, you’ll want to pursue justice for the wrongs done to you. This involves holding the responsible party accountable for their actions and seeking financial recovery.

If another driver causes your injuries, you can file a claim with their insurance company. Taking this route may prove successful, but it is worth noting that car insurance companies are notorious for being difficult. They use several tactics to defend against their insured’s liability and avoid paying you what your claim is worth. 

A pedestrian accident lawyer knows how to handle and communicate with insurance companies. Your attorney will try to negotiate a fair settlement, but when that’s not possible, they may need to file a lawsuit.

No matter what challenges you may encounter on the road to recovery, you can count on your pedestrian injury lawyer. 

Damages compensate you for your injuries and other losses you suffered due to your pedestrian accident. The type of damages available to you depends on the details of your case. 

Pedestrian accident damages can include any of the following:

• Medical bills, including hospital stays and treatment
• Therapy and rehabilitation expenses 
• Lost wages and earning potential
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

In cases where a pedestrian is left with disabilities or the consequences of their injuries, a pedestrian injury lawyer can calculate the potential long-term costs for the victim.

Once your pedestrian lawyer knows how much your case is worth, they can actively pursue the fairest possible financial recovery.

Drivers on Richmond's roads have a duty to avoid placing any other person at unnecessary risk of harm. A failure to provide this protection, whether by speeding, failing to yield at a crosswalk, or texting while driving, places an obligation on the defendant to provide compensation for any resulting injuries.

A Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer could help you hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. They could perform an investigation into the incident, gather the evidence needed to demonstrate the defendant's negligence, and measure your losses to make accurate demands for payment. However, it is vital to act quickly and efficiently to protect your rights. Call an attorney today to discuss your case.