Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in busy cities like Philadelphia and often can lead to severe injuries and significant emotional and financial burdens. According to the City of Philadelphia Vision Zero 2021 Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, our city has a higher number of pedestrian fatalities than similar U.S cities, with walkers being injured or killed (on average) every six hours.

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, understanding your legal rights and the steps you should take is crucial. On the top of your list should be consulting with a Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer.

You’re likely to have significant medical costs and lost wages if you were fortunate enough to have survived such an accident while walking in Philadelphia. And if your loved one died in a crash like this, you may have these expenses plus funeral and burial ones. Whatever the situation, we urge you to contact our law firm, Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, to learn about how to seek a financial settlement in your case. Meeting with our attorneys to learn about your legal options is free, so call or email us to schedule a consultation now.

Common Reasons Pedestrians Get Struck

Pedestrian accidents can occur due to various reasons; however, driver negligence or unsafe conditions are often to blame. Some common causes of these injury incidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers using mobile phones or other distractions can easily miss pedestrians.
• Speeding: High speeds reduce reaction time. According to a 2009 Accident Analysis & Prevention study published by Science Direct, both the likelihood of being struck and the severity of injuries increase at higher vehicle speeds.
• Failure To Yield: Drivers not yielding the right of way at crosswalks or intersections can cause serious accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers are a significant risk to pedestrians.
• Poor Visibility: Accidents often occur at night or in poor weather conditions when visibility is low.
• Traffic Signal Violations: Drivers running red lights or stop signs can collide with pedestrians lawfully crossing the street. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), at least 127,000 individuals suffered injuries in a recent year, and 1,109 were killed in crashes where a driver ran a red light.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents and the Law

Pedestrian accidents refer to incidents where individuals on foot are struck by vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, or bicycles.

These accidents can occur in various settings, including crosswalks, sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways. Urban environments, with their high density of vehicles, pedestrians, and intersections, are common sites for pedestrian accidents. The heavy traffic, numerous crosswalks, and frequent interactions between pedestrians and vehicles increase the risk.

Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the vulnerability of a person walking compared to motor vehicle occupants.

Pedestrian accident law falls under personal injury law and involves claims and lawsuits filed by victims who have been injured while walking. These claims aim to secure compensation for injuries and losses resulting from another party’s negligence or wrongful actions.

Pennsylvania law states that when a pedestrian crosses the street in a crosswalk, the driver must yield.

However, there are some conditions to that rule, including:

• If a pedestrian crosses the street between intersections and there’s no crosswalk, the pedestrian must yield to vehicles.
• Drivers do not have to stop until the pedestrian begins to step into a crosswalk.
• Pedestrians shouldn’t move into the path of a moving vehicle unexpectedly, assuming that a driver will see or yield.
• Drivers cannot pass a vehicle in front of them that’s stopped for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
• At intersections, both pedestrians and motorists must obey the traffic-control devices.
• Pedestrians must use sidewalks when available.

Understanding the nature, causes, and consequences of pedestrian accidents is crucial for both prevention and legal recourse.

Laws are notoriously complex. This is one of those areas where a Philadelphia pedestrian accident can be of assistance in helping you understand what your legal obligations may have been and, thus, what your right to file a pedestrian injury claim is. Consider contacting us at Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan to help you understand the applicability of city ordinances and Pennsylvania law to your case. We offer free consultations, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us today.

Injuries Pedestrians Suffer

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were roughly 104,000 emergency department visits of pedestrians treated for non-fatal crash-related injuries in 2020 nationwide. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents, often resulting in severe injuries such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Pedestrians struck by vehicles can suffer serious head and brain injuries.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can lead to paralysis and long-term disability.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Common due to the direct impact of the collision.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Including bruises, sprains, and strains.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs that can be life-threatening and may require extensive medical treatment.

How an Attorney Can You If You Were Struck While Walking in Philadelphia

Dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. A Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in several ways, including:

Expertise and Knowledge

Pedestrian accident attorneys have in-depth knowledge of traffic laws and personal injury statutes. They understand the complexities of pedestrian accident claims and can effectively build a strong case on your behalf.

Investigating the Accident

Skilled legal counsel will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. They may also work with accident reconstructionists to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer knows the tactics insurers use and can negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Maximizing Compensation

Your lawyer can help you pursue all possible avenues for compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. They will ensure that all your damages are accurately calculated and included in your claim.

Providing Peace of Mind

Dealing with legal matters while recovering from an accident can be stressful. Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery while they handle the legal aspects of your case.

Right now, you should be focused on your recovery or grief, not assessing the merits of a case, compiling evidence, and dealing with insurers. Let us at Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan handle all of that for you. Let’s meet for an initial consultation to discuss your case. If you hire us, we can get to work for you right away. Call or email us now to schedule that free case review.

What To Expect After Filing a Pedestrian Injury Claim

Understanding the legal process, including how a 2-year statute of limitations applies in Pennsylvania,  can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Here are the typical steps involved in a pedestrian accident claim:

Initial Consultation

The first step is to meet with a pedestrian accident lawyer for an initial consultation. During this meeting, you’ll discuss the details of your accident, and the legal representative will assess the merits of your case. Most pedestrian accident attorneys offer free initial consultations.

Investigation and Evidence Gathering

If you decide to hire a lawyer, they will begin investigating your case. This involves collecting evidence, such as medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any other relevant information.

Filing the Claim

Once enough evidence is gathered, your attorney will file a claim with the appropriate court. This formal document outlines your case, the extent of your injuries, and the compensation you’re seeking.

Negotiation and Settlement

Many pedestrian accident cases are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial.

Trial

If your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court, presenting evidence and arguing your case to the judge or jury. The goal is to secure a favorable verdict that awards you the compensation you deserve.

Choosing the Right Lawyer for Your Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Case

Selecting the right attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a pedestrian accident lawyer in Philadelphia:

• Experience: Look for an attorney with extensive experience in handling pedestrian accident cases. A lawyer who regularly handles these cases will have a deeper understanding of the nuances involved and be better equipped to handle your case.
• Reputation: Research the attorney’s reputation by reading client reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback from previous clients can indicate a lawyer’s reliability and success rate. Additionally, check for any disciplinary actions or complaints against the attorney.
• Communication and Availability: Effective communication is key. Choose a legal representative who is responsive and keeps you informed about the progress of your case. Ensure they are available to answer your questions and address your concerns.
• Fee Structure: Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to avoid any surprises later. Ensure you understand what percentage of your settlement or verdict the attorney will take as their fee.
• Personal Connection: It’s important to feel comfortable with your lawyer. A good personal connection can facilitate better communication and ensure that you feel supported throughout the legal process. Choose an attorney who listens to you, understands your concerns, and makes you feel confident in their ability to handle your case.

Your Path to Justice and Recovery

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a life-altering experience, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone.

At Laffey Bucci D’Andrea Reich & Ryan, we provide the guidance and support you need to secure the compensation you deserve. By understanding the legal process and choosing the right attorney, you can focus on your recovery while ensuring your rights are protected.

Whether you’ve been injured due to a distracted driver, poor visibility, or any other cause, seeking legal help promptly is crucial. A Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer in our office can help you understand your position, advocate on your behalf, and work tirelessly to achieve a favorable outcome.

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options.