Dallas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
When a motor vehicle collides with a pedestrian, the pedestrian may sustain serious injuries or even death. If the motor vehicle driver was at fault for causing the accident, the injured individual may be able to file a claim for damages. If the pedestrian died in the crash, the decedent’s estate representative may be able to file the claim in their place.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may need the assistance of a Dallas pedestrian accident lawyer who could help you review the facts of your accident and develop a plan to obtain a fair settlement. A capable attorney is ready to stand by your side to potentially present your personal injury case to the defendants and hold them accountable.
Steps Pedestrians Can Take to Avoid Accidents
There are some steps all pedestrians can take to lessen the likelihood of an accident. These include:
- Using a designated crosswalk when one is available
- Crossing the street when and where it is safe to do so
- Abiding by traffic control devices and other pedestrian signals
- Never attempting to beat traffic or run through a crosswalk or intersection
Violating the Duty of Care
Motorists have a duty to act with reasonable care towards others when on the roads. Whenever a pedestrian is walking in a designated crosswalk at an intersection in accordance with proper traffic signals, motor vehicle drivers must give the pedestrian the right of way. Failing to do so is typically deemed a violation of their duty of care and may result in liability.
To prove a driver is negligent, the injured pedestrian must show that the driver acted in a careless, negligent, or reckless manner. The injured pedestrian must also be able to show the wreck was the direct cause of their injuries. For help with proving negligence, it is highly recommended to retain the services of a Dallas pedestrian accident lawyer today.
How Pedestrians Suffer Injuries
With external protection, pedestrians are much more vulnerable to injuries than car or truck drivers. This may be especially true if the motor vehicle is moving at a high speed at the time of the impact.
Pedestrian injuries can range in severity, depending on the force of the impact and where the accident occurred. Injuries can include:
- Cuts and burns
- Bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
Partial Fault
Injured pedestrians may sometimes share the blame for a crash. For example, at the time of impact, the pedestrian may have been walking slightly outside the crosswalk lines or may have started crossing the intersection when it was not safe to do so.
In this situation, Texas uses the doctrine of comparative negligence. Under comparative negligence, if the accident victim’s level of fault is half or less than half, the accident victim could still recover damages. However, the final settlement will be reduced by the percentage attributable to the plaintiff.
Call a Dallas Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
No matter what the extent of your injuries or whether you believe you share the fault, you may want to consult with a Dallas pedestrian accident lawyer to review your legal options. Skilled local attorneys could help you negotiate with the insurance company, prove damages, and pursue a fair settlement to cover your injuries and losses. You may be entitled to compensation for another party’s careless or negligent acts, so do not hesitate to call today.
