Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws Explained
Right-of-way laws vary by state and situation. Understanding these rules is essential for proving fault in your pedestrian accident case.
Comparative Fault in Pedestrian Accidents
Even if you share some fault for your accident, you may still recover compensation. Understanding comparative negligence is key.
Contributory Negligence: A Harsh Rule for Pedestrians
Alabama, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, and DC use contributory negligence—any fault may bar your entire recovery.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents
Every state has a deadline for filing pedestrian accident claims. Miss it and you lose your right to compensation permanently.
Proving Fault in Pedestrian Accidents
Building a strong pedestrian accident case requires proving driver negligence. Evidence, witnesses, and expert testimony are crucial.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage for Pedestrians
Surprisingly, your own auto insurance may cover you as a pedestrian through uninsured motorist coverage—critical for hit-and-run cases.
No-Fault Insurance States and Pedestrian Claims
In no-fault states, your own PIP coverage may be primary for pedestrian injuries. Understanding these rules is essential.
Government Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
Dangerous road design and signal timing can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Government entities may share liability.
Property Owner Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
Parking lot owners, shopping centers, and businesses may share liability when poor maintenance or design causes pedestrian accidents.
Dram Shop Liability: Suing Bars for Drunk Driver Accidents
Bars and restaurants that over-serve intoxicated drivers may share liability when those drivers hit pedestrians.
Punitive Damages in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Punitive damages punish particularly egregious behavior. Drunk driving and extreme recklessness may support these additional damages.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim for a Pedestrian
When a pedestrian accident is fatal, surviving family members can pursue wrongful death claims for their losses.
Pain and Suffering Damages for Pedestrian Victims
Pain and suffering damages compensate for physical discomfort and emotional distress—often the largest part of pedestrian accident settlements.
Lost Wages and Income Claims After a Pedestrian Accident
Serious pedestrian injuries mean months or years of lost income. Documenting lost wages and future earning capacity is crucial.
Documenting Medical Expenses in Pedestrian Claims
Medical bills form the foundation of pedestrian accident claims. Proper documentation ensures you recover all treatment costs.
When to Hire a Pedestrian Accident Attorney
While minor injuries may not need an attorney, serious pedestrian accidents benefit significantly from legal representation.
Settlement vs. Trial in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Most pedestrian accident cases settle, but some require trial to get fair compensation. Understanding your options is important.
Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit Timeline
Pedestrian accident cases can take months to years to resolve. Understanding the timeline helps set realistic expectations.
Insurance Bad Faith in Pedestrian Accident Claims
Insurance companies must act in good faith. Unreasonable denials, delays, and lowball offers may constitute bad faith.
Class Action Lawsuits for Pedestrian Safety
When a dangerous intersection or road design injures multiple pedestrians, class action lawsuits may force safety improvements.
Expert Witnesses in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Accident reconstruction, medical, and economic experts can significantly strengthen your pedestrian accident case.
Subrogation in Pedestrian Accident Claims
Health insurers may have subrogation rights to recover payments from your settlement. Understanding these claims protects your recovery.
Medical Liens on Pedestrian Accident Settlements
Hospitals, Medicaid, and health insurers may place liens on your settlement. Proper negotiation can reduce these claims.
Legal Issues in Pedestrian Accidents Involving Minors
When children are injured in pedestrian accidents, special legal protections apply to ensure their interests are protected.
Out-of-State Pedestrian Accidents: Which Law Applies?
Being hit while visiting another state creates complex legal questions about jurisdiction and which laws apply.