Washington County Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries and challenging legal situations. Individuals may face significant medical expenses, lost wages, and prolonged recovery periods when these incidents occur.

Pedestrians are more vulnerable to accidents because they do not have the same protections as drivers and passengers inside motor vehicles. Unfortunately, many drivers do not give pedestrians the right of way or act negligently in other ways. The Washington County pedestrian accident lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm protect pedestrians’ rights after they are injured in car crashes and answer their legal questions with clarity, support, and compassion.

What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents result from different contributing factors:

• Distracted driving is a frequent cause, where drivers fail to pay attention to crosswalks or individuals crossing the road.
• Speeding is another significant factor, as drivers traveling too fast have reduced reaction times and may not stop in time to avoid a collision.
• Failure to yield at crosswalks can cause life-threatening injuries or worse for pedestrians.
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol contributes to many pedestrian accidents.
• Weather conditions and poor visibility also play a role in these incidents. Fog, rain, or darkness can make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Road design and lack of proper signage may contribute to hazardous conditions.
• Pedestrians may put themselves at risk when they cross outside designated areas or fail to adhere to traffic signals.

Each case is unique and requires an in-depth analysis to determine the exact cause and any potential liabilities.

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Pedestrian Accident?

After being involved in a pedestrian accident, you can take several steps to protect your health and legal rights. Seeking medical attention should be the top priority, even if injuries initially appear minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen without treatment. Obtaining a detailed medical record can also serve as critical evidence in any potential legal claim.

Gather information at the scene, including the driver’s contact details, insurance information, and vehicle description, if possible. Photographs of the accident site, including skid marks, road conditions, and injuries, can provide valuable documentation. Witness statements can also offer additional perspectives on what occurred.

Reporting the accident to local law enforcement is equally important, as an official police report may be required for legal proceedings. Ask the officers if they know of any traffic cameras at the accident site; the footage could be invaluable for your claim.

How Is Liability Determined in Pedestrian Accident Cases?

Liability in pedestrian accidents depends on two main categories: establishing who acted negligently and whether that negligence directly caused the injuries sustained. Drivers are required to follow traffic laws, exercise caution, and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. When a driver fails to fulfill these obligations and an accident occurs, they may be held legally responsible.

However, pedestrians must also follow certain rules, such as using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals. If a pedestrian’s actions contributed to the incident, shared liability might apply.

Arkansas follows a comparative negligence rule: If a pedestrian and driver are both found partially at fault, the pedestrian’s awarded compensation will be reduced by their assigned fault percentage. They cannot receive any damages when that is 50% or more.

That is one reason why linking the driver’s actions to pedestrian accidents is so important. Our Washington County pedestrian accident lawyers work diligently to establish responsibility and advocate for fair outcomes.

What Types of Compensation Are Available in Pedestrian Accident Cases?

Compensation in pedestrian accident cases may cover a variety of damages.

• Medical expenses, including emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation, are often a primary concern.
• Lost wages may also be included, particularly if injuries prevent the individual from returning to work immediately.
• Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are another form of compensation. These damages address the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• In cases where the pedestrian sustains permanent injuries or disabilities, future medical expenses and diminished earning capacity may also be considered.

Every case is unique, and the specific damages available depend on the circumstances of the accident.

Why Is it Important to Work with a Washington County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

Legal claims involving pedestrian accidents can involve complicated laws and procedures. Our Washington County pedestrian accident lawyers are experienced in handling these cases and provide valuable insights and strategies. We effectively gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and negotiate settlements that reflect the full extent of the damages sustained. We represent our clients in court when fair settlements cannot be reached.

Our team members also help individuals understand their rights and responsibilities under Washington County and state laws. This guidance can be instrumental in achieving a favorable resolution for those unfamiliar with the legal process. Legal representation is particularly important when dealing with insurers, as they may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute claims altogether.

What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

In Arkansas, pedestrian accident claims are subject to the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This legal deadline typically allows three years from the date of the accident to file. Missing this deadline may result in losing the ability to seek compensation through the court system.

However, certain exceptions can apply, such as cases involving minors or when the responsible party cannot be immediately identified. Prompt action is strongly recommended to keep all legal options remain available. Consulting with our Washington County pedestrian accident lawyers soon after the accident can help clarify any deadlines and avoid unnecessary complications.

Let the Washington County Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm Fight to Pursue Justice for Your Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can have far-reaching consequences, both physically and financially. Osborne & Wilmoth Law Firm has extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases and is committed to providing strong representation for injured clients. Contact our Washington County pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation to learn about your legal options. Call us at 479-521-7727 or submit our online form. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.