Tucson Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can cause life-changing injuries. If you were the victim of one, an Arizona pedestrian accident lawyer can help you seek damages.

The attorneys at Sweet James have over 25 years of experience helping accident victims. If you were injured as a pedestrian, a Tucson pedestrian accident lawyer can help you pursue a settlement.

How Can a Tucson Pedestrian Accident Attorney Help?

Pedestrian accident cases can get complicated fast.

A pedestrian accident lawyer can assist with your case by:

• Investigating the accident: A lawyer can gather evidence such as police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements to determine how the crash occurred and who may be responsible.
• Calculating your damages: A lawyer can evaluate your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages to determine the potential value of your claim.
• Handling insurance companies: Insurance adjusters may try to shift blame to the pedestrian. A lawyer can communicate with insurers on your behalf.
• Taking your case to court: If a settlement that covers your documented losses isn’t offered, a lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf.

What Types of Compensation Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Pursue?

Pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to seek compensation for a variety of losses, including:

• Medical expenses: You can pursue money for the cost of hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, rehabilitation, and other necessary medical care related to the accident.
• Future medical treatment: If your injuries require ongoing care, you can pursue compensation for future medical expenses related to the accident.
• Lost income: You can seek wages you lost while you were unable to work during your recovery.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or limit your ability to work, you can seek compensation for reduced earning potential.
• Pain and suffering: You can pursue damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
• Property damage: You can request the cost to repair or replace personal property damaged in the crash, such as phones, glasses, or other belongings.
• Punitive damages: In cases involving particularly reckless behavior, you may be able to pursue punitive damages intended to punish the wrongdoer.

A personal injury lawyer can help you identify and document the losses associated with your claim.

What Is the Deadline to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Arizona?

Per A.R.S. § 12-542, the deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit after a pedestrian accident in Arizona is generally two years from the date of the crash. If your lawsuit is not filed within this time, you may lose the right to pursue compensation.

Exceptions may apply in cases involving government entities, minors, or delayed discovery of injuries. A Tucson personal injury lawyer can help you meet the applicable deadline.

What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Tucson?

Pedestrian accidents can occur in many ways, but most are caused by driver negligence or unsafe roadway conditions.

Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Tucson include:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, using navigation systems, or otherwise not paying attention may not notice pedestrians crossing the street.
• Failure to yield at crosswalks: Arizona law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, yet many drivers ignore this rule.
• Speeding: Higher speeds reduce a driver’s ability to stop in time and increase the severity of injuries when a collision occurs.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drug impairment slows drivers’ reaction time and impairs their judgment, making them more likely to strike pedestrians.
• Poor visibility: Accidents often happen at night or during early morning hours when drivers have difficulty seeing pedestrians.
• Unsafe turns at intersections: Drivers making left or right turns may focus on oncoming traffic and overlook pedestrians crossing legally.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Tucson

Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in traffic collisions. Even at relatively low speeds, these accidents can cause serious injuries.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries: A blow to the head during a collision or fall can lead to long-term cognitive problems, memory loss, or even permanent disability.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord may result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or paralysis.
• Broken bones: These accidents often cause leg, arm, rib, or pelvis fractures.
• Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs can create life-threatening medical emergencies.
• Soft tissue injuries: Torn ligaments, muscle damage, and severe bruising can cause lasting pain and limit an accident victim’s mobility.
• Psychological trauma: Many victims develop anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a serious accident.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

While a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, it’s still important to:

1. Call the police: A police report creates an official record of the accident, which will be important for your claim.
2. Document the scene: If possible, take photos of the accident location, the vehicle involved, any visible injuries, and any nearby traffic signs or crosswalks.
3. Collect contact information: Obtain the driver’s name, insurance information, and contact details. If there are witnesses, ask for their information as well.
4. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
5. Avoid discussing fault: Do not apologize or admit blame at the scene. Statements made immediately after an accident can be used against you later.
6. Talk to a lawyer: Reach out to a pedestrian accident attorney serving Tucson to go over your legal options.

Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Serving Tucson

A pedestrian accident can lead to serious financial strain. If you were injured by a negligent driver, a Tucson pedestrian accident attorney from Sweet James can help you file a claim and seek compensation for your losses.

Book a free case evaluation to take the first step today. No attorneys’ fees unless we win. (Client may be responsible for other costs.)