Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Reading, MA
Walking You Through Pedestrian Accident Claims in Massachusetts
While some types of motor vehicle fatalities are going down, fatal pedestrian accidents are increasing. In 2018, a total of 6,283 people lost their lives to pedestrian traffic crashes. When most people in the United States spend some time as a pedestrian, this statistic is unacceptable. Even one death is too many, and, unfortunately, many of these deaths are caused by negligent motor vehicle drivers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in fact, 47% of fatal pedestrian accidents involve alcohol.
If you are harmed by a drunk or otherwise negligent driver, the Law Offices of Stephen M. Hughes, P.C. can help.
Call us at (781) 350-9342 to get started today.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
When cars and pedestrians collide, the pedestrian suffers the brunt of the impact – no matter who is at fault for the accident. Pedestrians who are hit by cars often sustain serious injuries or succumb to the accident entirely.
Some of the most common injuries we see at our firm include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCI)
- Pelvic fractures
- Broken bones
- Cuts and bruises
- Internal injuries
- Death
Not only do pedestrians absorb the impact of the motor vehicle that hits them, but they can also fall to the ground, be thrown into an object, or land on the hood or windshield of the car. Injuries from this kind of trauma can have lasting and lifelong effects.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents
Massachusetts always gives the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Nevertheless, many drivers hit people who are crossing the street. Chapter 89, Section 11 of Massachusetts General Law spells out liability for crosswalk accidents.
Inside or outside of crosswalks, the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence
- Failure to yield
- Cell phone use
- Distracted driving
Low visibility is also a contributing factor, but drivers must be careful and should be more careful if it is dark or difficult to see. Children and pedestrians aged 65 or older are the most at-risk for pedestrian accidents, so drivers should also be extra careful if they see these populations on the road.
How Your Claim Will Work
After a pedestrian accident, your priority should be your health. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel like you don’t need it. If you don’t leave the scene of your accident in an ambulance, try to gather information about the driver that hit you and take photos of your surroundings, any injuries you may have, and the vehicle that hit you.
Once you know what to expect in terms of your health, you may want to contact an attorney. When you choose the Law Offices of Stephen M. Hughes, P.C., the process works like this:
- You come in for a free consultation
- Our attorneys evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case
- We investigate your claim and gather supporting evidence
- We build a strong case and prepare for trial from day one
- We make a demand against the insurance company
- The insurance company makes a settlement offer
- We negotiate to maximize your compensation
- If we cannot come to an agreement, we consider going to trial
- We do everything in our power to get you the settlement or award you deserve
A successful settlement or verdict can help you account for the consequences of a pedestrian accident. Compensation can cover medical bills, missed wages, pain & suffering, and so much more.
Call the Law Offices of Stephen M. Hughes, P.C. Today
Are you ready to move forward after a pedestrian accident? Look no further than our firm. With nearly 30 years of experience, Attorney Hughes can help you file a personal injury lawsuit and fight for the resources you need to recover.
Our legal team works for you, so we give you the advice and support you need to make the best decision for your case and future. We are available 24/7 and truly care about your success. The Reading community matters to us, you matter to us, and we want to help.
Take the first step and schedule a free consultation today – call us at (781) 350-9342 or contact us online to tell us what happened and secure your first meeting.
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents
Both drivers and pedestrians can take action to help prevent pedestrian accidents. Everyone should follow the rules of the road and obey all signs and signals at all times.
As a pedestrian, you should also walk predictably and on sidewalks whenever possible. If no sidewalks are available, you should walk facing traffic and as far from traffic as possible. Cross at crosswalks and intersections whenever they are available or choose a well-lit area with a clear view of traffic. Be mindful of cars and trucks and never assume a driver can see you. If you can, make eye contact before you cross and never cross if there is not enough time for you to make it safely across. Wearing bright colors during the day and reflective materials at night can help you stay visible, as can carrying a flashlight when it is dark out. Although it is not illegal to walk under the influence, you should stay sober and distraction-free when walking around vehicles. Keep an eye out for cars entering or exiting driveways and always watch out for cars that are backing up.
As a driver, operate your motor vehicle like someone else’s life is in your hands – because it is. Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times, and use extra caution when driving in hard-to-see conditions (nighttime driving or bad weather).
Slow down when making turns or entering intersections and crosswalks. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and give them plenty of space to cross safely. Never pass a car that is stopped at a crosswalk and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the speed limit and follow slower speed limits in school zones and child-friendly neighborhoods. Avoid using your cell phone or engaging in other distractions behind the wheel. Expect pedestrians to travel into your path anywhere and at any time, even and especially when you are backing up or in or around a parking lot.
Taking care as a driver is particularly important because your vehicle could hurt or kill a pedestrian.
If you have been hit by a car, the insurance company may challenge your claim if you were doing anything unsafe at the time of the accident.
Because a moment of distraction is harmless while walking and potentially deadly while driving, we protect your rights as a pedestrian and person at all times.
If you are involved in an accident, our Reading pedestrian accident lawyers can help you recover.
To the insurance companies, you are just another number. To us you are a human being who deserves to be fought for and defended.
