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Free ConsultationA pedestrian accident occurs when a vehicle hits somebody who is on foot. Given the harm that a person can suffer when hit by a car, it is always the job of the driver to watch out for people. In many cases, people are injured or even killed by cars when the pedestrians are taking all proper precautions. A driver may negligently hit a pedestrian due to a number of factors, such as drunk driving, being too tired, texting, or simply not paying attention. When a person is injured, he or she has certain rights.
If you have been injured by a car, contact a Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer from Lowenthal & Abrams. You should not have to bear the cost or pain and suffering of your injury alone. Our skilled personal injury attorneys understand your rights as a pedestrian, the insurance claim process, and the complex court system.
Common Reasons for Pedestrian Collisions
When drivers are do not take proper precautions and look out for pedestrians, accidents can easily happen. As such, most pedestrian accidents are caused by irresponsible drivers, especially when walking cities such as Philadelphia. Common causes of these collisions involve drivers who are:
- Speeding
- Refusing to yield right-of-way in crosswalks and parking lots
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Using cell phones or engaging in other forms of distracted driving
- Failing to use turn signals to warn the pedestrian
- Driving too close to the curb or roadside
- Driving while drunk or on drugs
Poor weather conditions, unmarked crosswalks, and crossing signals that are not working properly also may cause a car to hit a person crossing the street. Any pedestrian who suffers an injury because of a reckless driver must follow vital steps after a collision with a vehicle. The first and most essential step is seeking professional medical care. Next, they should contact a qualified local attorney to begin working on their pedestrian accident claim for compensation.
Damages After Getting Hit by a Car
Every motorist has a legal duty to drive with a certain level of reasonable care. The driver must obey all the traffic laws and ensure they operate their vehicle safely. When they do not follow safety guidelines and traffic laws, causing a pedestrian to sustain an injury, that person could sue the driver for negligence. The victim of a negligent driver may be eligible to collect for:
- Current and future lost wages
- Current and future medical bills
- Other miscellaneous expenses affiliated with the accident and injuries
- Pain and suffering
It is crucial that injured pedestrians contact an attorney in Philadelphia immediately after their accident. Not only could one of our lawyers help a client with the court proceedings, but they could also work with insurance companies on their behalf to get the compensation they need.
Insurance Issues
When it comes to pedestrian accidents, insurance coverage issues are both important and complex. When pedestrians are hit by cars, they are considered full tort automatically. This means they are entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, even if they normally have limited tort insurance. However, if the driver does not have automobile insurance or their insurance is not enough to cover the claimant’s injuries, obtaining fair compensation can be difficult. Retaining the proper legal counsel is vital in these situations.
State Statute Regarding Pedestrians on Sidewalks
75 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statute § 3547 describes the right-of-way of pedestrians on sidewalks. This law states that any driver entering from a driveway, building, private road, or alley must yield to any people who are present. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way as the driver approaches a sidewalk extending across the driveway, building, private road, or alley.
Any pedestrian who sustains serious injuries because a driver failed to follow this state statute should contact a lawyer in Philadelphia to discuss the accident.
Schedule a Meeting with a Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian collisions can leave you with lasting injuries and trauma, but you do not have to face this challenging time alone. If you were struck by a negligent driver, contact an experienced and compassionate Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer to work on your case right away.
It is pivotal that you take prompt action in securing the compensation you need. Knowledgeable legal counsel from our firm could handle your case, allowing you to focus on recuperating. Call today to get started right away.
