It is unfortunate when pedestrians get hit by a vehicle when they have the right of way. In 2017 alone, 5,977 pedestrians were killed because of traffic crashes, leading to one death for every 88 minutes that passed. Pedestrian accidents can result in long-lasting injuries that prevent the victim from living a normal life again. If an accident happened to you and you believe that you are not at fault, you can seek counsel with a pedestrian accident attorney in Chandler, AZ to investigate your case. If the driver is at fault, it is possible to get compensation for your injuries. You can contact Wattel and York for a free consultation.
Pedestrian Fatalities and SUVs
SUVs are large and heavy vehicles that take longer to slow down and make a bigger impact in crashes. Drivers of SUVs are particularly at risk of killing pedestrians compared to drivers of smaller vehicles. Within the 20 to 39 miles per hour range, three out of ten pedestrian accident crashes caused by SUV drivers resulted in a fatal injury, according to a 2020 study. Non-SUV drivers, however, only caused five out of 22 fatal crashes.
How Can a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help You?
Pedestrian accident lawyers are very knowledgeable in the law, which allows them to educate you on your case. If you were not following the pedestrian laws when you were struck by a car, the driver might not be completely at fault for your injuries. The lawyer can closely examine your case and find out whether you can claim damages for your injuries. They can also explain the comparative negligence law, which states that if you are partially at fault you can still receive compensation for the percentage you are not at fault for.
Arizona Pedestrian Laws
Arizona laws require all pedestrians to use the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk or it abruptly ends, pedestrians are legally allowed to walk on the road. They have to keep to the far shoulder and stay out of traffic. Pedestrians are also required to walk in the opposite direction of oncoming traffic so that drivers have a clear view of them. Additionally, pedestrians should always use crosswalks when available instead of cutting across the road. If there is a walk signal at an intersection, pedestrians should wait for it to be highlighted before crossing the road if possible.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but the main causes are speeding, not stopping in time, and not driving slowly enough during inclement weather. Other common reasons include careless, reckless, and distracted driving. Distracted driving includes texting while driving or other activities that take their eyes off the road. They might also potentially be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drowsiness and fatigue are other culprits for why a driver might have hit a pedestrian. Drivers that cause pedestrian accidents are more likely to disobey traffic signals.
Who Is Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?
In most cases, the car or SUV driver is held liable for hitting the pedestrian. In some scenarios, it can be difficult to prove that the driver was negligent. In those cases, a pedestrian accident attorney can help by using the evidence to prove that the pedestrian is not at fault. Even if the driver is only partially at fault, they can still be held liable for the percentage they’re at fault for.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Chandler, Arizona
After a pedestrian accident, you should call 911 so that they can send an EMT to check you for life-threatening injuries. After you get medical treatment you will know the extent of your injuries so you can report them to your personal injury attorney. You should stay at the scene of the crash, so you can tell the police what happened. When you can, take pictures of the physical damage because they can help show the severity of your accident and also be used as evidence. Also, you should get contact information from the driver and any nearby witnesses. An attorney in Chandler, AZ can help guide you through the settlement to potentially help you recover compensation for your damages.
What Are The Attorney Fees?
Most attorneys that manage pedestrian accident cases are paid through a contingency fee. This means that there are no upfront payments until you receive a settlement. The attorney will then take a percentage of this amount.
How Much Money Can I Expect to Receive?
Every pedestrian accident case is different. Because your personal injury is unique, you have to get help from an attorney to help you calculate an accurate settlement amount. There is no average settlement for a pedestrian accident.
How Long Does the Settlement Claim Process Take?
Pedestrian accident claims can take months to a year or more to be resolved. Your attorney can provide you with more information on what timing to expect, but there is no definite answer as it depends on whether the other party agrees to your settlement. If they don’t agree, your attorney can file a lawsuit. Your lawsuit will be reviewed in court and the judge and jury will come to a decision.
More Information on Pedestrian Accidents
If you need help resolving your pedestrian accident damages, you can speak to an experienced attorney in Chandler, AZ. Contact Wattel and York today for a free consultation.