Richmond Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

A simple walk should not be a risky activity, but the actions of a careless driver can place pedestrians in harm's way. Even if a pedestrian stays on the sidewalk and takes every possible precaution, another driver's moment of negligence can still result in significant injuries.

The law holds that negligent drivers have the absolute obligation to provide compensation to the people that they harm. However, you may be surprised to learn that defendants must be 100 percent at fault for the victim to collect any compensation.

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.

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 wellbeing of pedestrians.

Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way at Crosswalks?

One common cause of pedestrian accidents is drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. According to VA Code §46.2-924(A)(1), a driver must yield to a pedestrian who is at a clearly marked crosswalk and is in the process of crossing. Even in the absence of a crosswalk, drivers must yield to pedestrians who are crossing the road if the speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.

Of course, pedestrians may also suffer injuries in situations where a driver does not violate a rule of the road. Traffic accidents between two vehicles may affect pedestrians if those cars careen onto a sidewalk. Pedestrians may also endure harm when drivers are careless in adverse weather conditions and do not use headlights or windshield wipers. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Richmond could evaluate the causes of an injury to place blame on negligent defendant drivers.

Pedestrian accidents can result in some of the most serious injuries seen in personal injury law. Even at low speeds, a pedestrian accident can cause broken bones, severe cuts and scrapes, or separated joints. More serious accidents can lead to paralysis, permanent brain damage, or even death.

While the physical effects of a pedestrian accident form the core of a claim for damages, they are not the plaintiff's only source of compensation. Victims can seek payment for lost wages from time off work and a future loss of earning potential due to a permanent or prolonged disability.

What Emotional Damages Could be Sought?

Victims can also recover compensation for the emotional impact of an accident. Intense pain and suffering accompany many injuries, and some plaintiffs may also be burdened with depression, anxiety, or PTSD. A Richmond pedestrian accident attorney could help to measure the full extent of an individual's losses and demand appropriate compensation.

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.