Texas Pedestrian Accidents

5 Things You Should Do after a Pedestrian Accident in Texas

Pedestrian accidents can be frightening and potentially cause life-altering injuries. Here are five crucial steps to take if you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Texas:

• 1) Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be the top priority. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Some injuries, like internal trauma or concussions, may not manifest symptoms right away. Additionally, having medical documentation of your injuries is crucial for any legal proceedings or insurance claims.
• 2) Contact Law Enforcement: Call 911 to report the accident to the police. It’s important to have an official record of the incident, and the police report will document key details such as the location, time, and circumstances of the accident. Be sure to provide the officers with accurate information and cooperate fully with their investigation.
• 3) Gather Evidence: If you’re physically able, try to gather as much evidence from the scene as possible. Take photographs of the accident site, including any damage to vehicles involved, skid marks, traffic signs, and your injuries. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident occur. This evidence can be invaluable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
• 4) Notify Your Insurance Company: Contact your auto insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Even if you were a pedestrian and not driving a vehicle, your auto insurance policy may provide coverage for medical expenses or liability in certain situations. Be honest and provide accurate details about the accident when speaking with your insurance agent.
• 5) Consult with an Attorney at Sweet James: Pedestrian accidents can result in complex legal issues, especially when determining fault and pursuing compensation for damages. Consult with a personal injury attorney at Sweet James who has experience handling pedestrian accident cases in Texas. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and advocate for fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

By following these steps after a pedestrian accident in Texas, you can protect your health, gather important evidence, and ensure that your rights are upheld during the aftermath of the incident.

Different Types of Pedestrian Accidents

Understanding the different types of pedestrian accidents can help raise awareness and promote safety measures to prevent them. Here are some of the most prevalent types:

• Intersection Accidents: Intersections are high-risk areas for pedestrians due to the convergence of vehicles and foot traffic. Accidents at intersections often occur when drivers fail to yield the right of way to pedestrians while turning or when pedestrians jaywalk or ignore traffic signals.
• Crosswalk Accidents: Crosswalks are designated areas for pedestrians to safely cross the road, but accidents can still happen. Drivers may fail to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, especially during busy traffic or when visibility is poor. Similarly, pedestrians might mistakenly assume that vehicles will yield to them and step into the crosswalk without checking for oncoming traffic.
• Distracted Driving/Pedestrian Distraction: With the rise of smartphones and other electronic devices, both drivers and pedestrians are increasingly distracted while on the road. Distracted drivers may not notice pedestrians crossing the street, while distracted pedestrians may fail to see oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Backing Accidents: These accidents occur when a vehicle is backing out of a driveway, parking space, or alley and strikes a pedestrian walking behind the vehicle. Limited visibility and driver negligence are often contributing factors to backing accidents involving pedestrians.
• Speeding Accidents: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, such as pedestrians crossing the road. Speeding drivers have a shorter stopping distance, making it more difficult to avoid collisions with pedestrians, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving pedestrians. Intoxicated drivers may fail to notice pedestrians or misjudge their speed and distance.
• Pedestrian Right-of-Way Violations: Pedestrians have the right of way in many situations, such as when crossing at marked crosswalks or intersections with pedestrian signals. Accidents occur when drivers disregard pedestrian right-of-way laws and fail to yield to pedestrians when required by law.
• Nighttime Accidents: Reduced visibility at night increases the risk of pedestrian accidents. Poor street lighting, dark clothing worn by pedestrians, and impaired visibility due to weather conditions can make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians, leading to accidents.
• Turning Accidents: Accidents involving turning vehicles occur when a driver fails to notice a pedestrian while making a turn at an intersection or into a driveway. Blind spots, distracted driving, and misjudging the speed of pedestrians are common factors in turning accidents.
• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, such as poorly marked crosswalks, lack of sidewalks, or inadequate lighting, can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Improving infrastructure and implementing traffic calming measures can help enhance pedestrian safety.

These are just a few examples of the different types of pedestrian accidents that occur on roads and streets often in Texas. Promoting awareness, adhering to traffic laws, and practicing safe driving and walking habits are crucial steps in reducing the frequency and severity of pedestrian accidents.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can result in a range of injuries, varying in severity depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicle, the angle of impact, and the physical condition of the pedestrian. Here are some common pedestrian accident injuries:

• Soft Tissue Injuries: These are among the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents. Soft tissue injuries include bruises, sprains, strains, and cuts. They can occur when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle or thrown to the ground upon impact.
• Fractures: Pedestrians may suffer fractures to bones such as the arms, legs, hips, or pelvis in accidents. Fractures can vary in severity from hairline fractures to compound fractures that pierce the skin.
• Head Injuries: Head injuries are a significant concern in pedestrian accidents, especially if the pedestrian strikes their head on the vehicle, the ground, or other objects. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive impairments or disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a vehicle can cause trauma to the spine, resulting in spinal cord injuries. These injuries can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, or impaired motor function depending on the location and severity of the injury.
• Internal Injuries: Pedestrians involved in accidents may sustain internal injuries to organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
• Emotional Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can also cause emotional trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event like being struck by a vehicle can have long-lasting psychological effects.
• Fatal Injuries: Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can sometimes result in fatalities, particularly in cases of high-speed collisions or when pedestrians are struck by larger vehicles such as trucks or buses.

It’s important for pedestrians to be vigilant and follow safety precautions such as using crosswalks, obeying traffic signals, and avoiding distractions like texting while walking. Additionally, drivers should exercise caution, adhere to speed limits, and remain attentive to their surroundings to prevent pedestrian accidents and minimize injuries.

How a Texas Pedestrian Accident Attorney at Sweet James Can Help You

When it comes to pedestrian accidents in Texas, the aftermath can be devastating. From severe injuries to emotional trauma and financial strain, victims often find themselves overwhelmed and uncertain of where to turn for help. This is where a pedestrian accident attorney can be an invaluable resource.

Our pedestrian accident attorneys bring knowledge and experience to your case. We understand the complexities of Texas traffic laws, insurance policies, and liability issues related to pedestrian accidents. This knowledge allows us to navigate the legal process efficiently and effectively on behalf of our clients.

One of the primary ways a pedestrian accident attorney can assist a victim is by conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. This may involve gathering evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to determine who was at fault. Our attorneys can help establish liability and maximize the victim’s chances of receiving fair compensation.

Additionally, our pedestrian accident attorneys can handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on behalf of the victim. Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Whether it’s negotiating a settlement or litigating the case in court, our attorney’s goal is to secure the compensation the victim deserves for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Our pedestrian accident attorneys at Sweet James provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the entire legal process. Our team understands the emotional toll that a serious accident can take on a victim and their family, and we are here to offer compassion, reassurance, and practical advice every step of the way.

Handling Insurance Companies after a Pedestrian Accident

After enduring a pedestrian accident in Texas, navigating the complexities of insurance companies can be daunting. First and foremost, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. Seek medical attention immediately, as your health takes precedence over any insurance matters. Once stabilized, you can begin the process of dealing with insurance companies.

In Texas, like in many states, there are specific regulations governing insurance claims, especially in cases involving pedestrian accidents. It’s crucial to document every detail of the incident, including gathering witness statements, police reports, and medical records. When dealing with insurance companies, it’s advisable to communicate in writing, keeping records of all correspondence. Additionally, enlisting the help of an experienced attorney can provide invaluable support during negotiations and ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process. With patience, perseverance, and the right guidance, you can navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident in Texas and work towards securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

The Importance of Documentation after a Pedestrian Accident

Documentation following a pedestrian accident in Texas is crucial for various reasons. In Texas, like in many other states, pedestrian accidents can have severe legal, financial, and emotional implications. Here’s why documentation is important in such cases:

• Legal Proceedings: Documentation serves as evidence in legal proceedings. This includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any photographic evidence of the accident scene. In Texas, where fault is determined based on comparative negligence, having clear documentation can significantly impact the outcome of legal proceedings.
• Insurance Claims: Insurance companies will require thorough documentation to process claims efficiently. This includes medical bills, records of lost wages, and any other expenses incurred due to the accident. Providing comprehensive documentation can expedite the claims process and ensure fair compensation for the injured party.
• Establishing Liability: Documentation helps in establishing liability for the accident. Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning that compensation can be reduced based on the pedestrian’s degree of fault. Clear documentation can help determine fault accurately, whether it lies with the driver, pedestrian, or both.
• Medical Treatment: Detailed documentation of injuries sustained in the accident is essential for receiving appropriate medical treatment. This includes medical records, diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up care. Adequate documentation ensures that the injured pedestrian receives the necessary medical attention for recovery.
• Future Recourse: Documentation provides a record of the accident that can be referred to in the future if complications arise. It can be essential for seeking further medical treatment or pursuing additional compensation if the initial settlement does not cover all expenses related to the accident.
• Preventing Disputes: Clear documentation helps prevent disputes and misunderstandings regarding the circumstances of the accident. By accurately recording the events, injuries, and damages, both parties involved can have a clearer understanding of what transpired, reducing the likelihood of disagreements later on.
• Public Safety: Documentation of pedestrian accidents can contribute to identifying hazardous areas and implementing safety measures to prevent future accidents. Analyzing accident data helps authorities understand patterns and prioritize improvements to pedestrian infrastructure and traffic regulations.

Documentation helps establish liability, facilitates insurance claims, ensures proper medical treatment, and contributes to improving public safety. Pedestrians and drivers alike should prioritize thorough documentation in the unfortunate event of an accident to protect their interests and promote a fair resolution.

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. Therefore, it’s crucial for victims to seek legal representation as soon as possible to ensure their rights are protected and they have the best possible chance of obtaining a favorable outcome.

Our Pedestrian Accident Attorneys at Sweet James are Here to Help

Sustaining injuries in a pedestrian accident can be traumatizing for everyone involved. You do not have to face the aftermath alone. Contact our office today at 1-800-900-0000. We are here to help you and your loved ones during this trying time.