People often do not realize that walking along the street, even in their own neighborhood, can be a very dangerous activity. You expect people operating cars, trucks, and other vehicles to drive responsibly. When distractions or poor visibility are part of the equation, unsuspecting pedestrians become victims in a pedestrian accident, typically suffering serious or catastrophic injuries in the process.
If you or a loved one was hit by a car and is suffering from serious injuries, the lawyers at Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman can help. We understand that serious injuries can result in lost wages, significant medical expenses, stress, and the uncertainty of working with insurance companies. To alleviate your concerns, we will work quickly to obtain the compensation you deserve.
While we try to resolve all matters out of court to avoid prolonged litigation, we will prepare your case as if it were going to trial and will sue in court when necessary and with your permission.
How A Pedestrian Accident Can Occur
Pedestrian accidents aren’t always the result of a pedestrian’s mistake. Many times, these accidents are the result of driver negligence, which can include:
- Failing to yield right of way while turning
- Failing to stop at a traffic light or sign
- Being distracted while driving
- Not paying attention while moving through a crosswalk
- Being intoxicated behind the wheel
Although accidents between other vehicles don’t always result in injuries, striking a pedestrian typically does. Whether the offending vehicle is a motorcycle, car, truck, or large commercial vehicle, pedestrian strikes can cause catastrophic injuries that may include:
- Multiple fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic head injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe lacerations that can lead to scarring and disfigurement
Depending on the size and speed of the vehicle, a pedestrian’s injuries may result in amputation, which may lead to numerous surgeries, rehabilitation, and permanent disability. If a pedestrian is not lucky enough to survive, their family may have a wrongful death claim on their hands.
Can The Pedestrian Be At Fault?
A pedestrian can be at fault for a pedestrian accident despite the fact that motor vehicles must always yield to pedestrians while they are on the road. Pedestrians still have a responsibility to ensure they are following traffic laws as well. Some of the most common situations where a pedestrian can be found at fault in an accident:
- A pedestrian was crossing against the traffic signal
- A pedestrian was crossing the road outside a crosswalk
- A pedestrian was walking where pedestrian access is clearly not allowed
Pedestrian accident liability can be complex. There are many factors that need to be considered. If you have been injured, contact Mississippi pedestrian accident attorneys today to learn how we can help you.
How Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help
We believe that drivers have a duty to drive safely, especially when pedestrians are present. We realize this doesn’t always happen.
Whatever your situation, we are prepared to:
- Deal with the insurance company on your behalf
- Assert your rights through aggressive negotiation or litigation (when necessary)
- Help you receive the maximum amount of compensation entitled to you by the law
- Listen to your needs and goals, and always keep them in mind while we work hard to hold the negligent party accountable for his or her actions
To speak with a lawyer from Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, contact us today. Initial consultations are free, and there are no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman helps those who have been injured in a pedestrian accident throughout Northern Mississippi including the cities of Southaven and Hernando as well as the counties of DeSoto, Marshall, Tate, and Tunica.
