Killeen Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Many people walk to get to where they need to be on a daily basis. Additionally, walking is a popular form of exercise and stress release. Tragically, walking is also how many people become injured when a vehicle unexpectedly strikes them.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you should consult with a qualified personal injury attorney. An experienced Killeen pedestrian accident lawyer can help you receive access to justice and financial compensation.
Avoiding a Collision
Walking is an activity many of us cannot avoid. Fortunately, there are several steps a pedestrian can take to reduce their risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident, such as:
- Abiding by all road signs, crosswalks, and signals
- Using sidewalks whenever possible to avoid walking in the street
- Avoiding distractions such as phone use or listening to music
- Remaining alert at all times and never assuming a driver can see them
- Avoiding walking under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Wearing reflective clothing when walking at night
Some groups of people are more susceptible to being harmed in a pedestrian accident. For instance, disabled people and the elderly may have difficulty crossing the street or avoiding hazards. Additionally, children are vulnerable to accidents because they sometimes run into the street without looking for oncoming traffic.
Unfortunately, cars run over even the most cautious pedestrians. A qualified Killeen pedestrian crash lawyer can help an injured party file a claim for damages as soon as possible.
Common Types of Injuries
Unlike a car occupant or bicyclist, a pedestrian usually does not have any safety gear to protect them against injuries in an accident. Consequently, pedestrians often suffer catastrophic injuries when struck by a vehicle. These injuries can include severe damage to their head, extremities, neck, and spine.
The severity of a pedestrian’s injuries depends on several factors, such as the angle of the impact, the vehicle’s speed, and what part of the pedestrian’s body suffered harm. For instance, a pedestrian might land on top of the hood of a car after being hit by a speeding vehicle.
A pedestrian’s injuries commonly require extensive medical treatment and may even prevent them from returning to work. A local pedestrian accident attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to obtain an equitable settlement on a victim’s behalf.
Proving Fault Following a Crash
Under Texas law, both drivers and pedestrians can face liability for an accident. Texas adopts a modified comparative fault rule in the majority of negligence-based cases. Accordingly, the courts will calculate each party’s contribution to the accident, assign a percentage of fault, and reduce the victim’s damages by that percent.
A party that is over 50 percent responsible for the accident will lose its ability to recover financial compensation. A skilled pedestrian attorney in the area can ensure that a victim receives the compensation they deserve and that the at-fault party is held responsible.
Let a Killeen Pedestrian Attorney Assist You Today
A person injured in a pedestrian accident may be eligible to recover damages for any injuries and losses they sustained. An injured party should not delay filing a claim because they could lose their ability to recover damages once the statute of limitations expires.
A diligent Killeen pedestrian lawyer can evaluate the merits of your case and help you seek justice. Contact our firm today to consult with a specialist about your accident.
