Texas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer | ATX Legal

Every year, countless lives are disrupted by pedestrian accidents in Austin, Texas. These incidents, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities, can have lasting consequences for the injured person and their family. If you or a family member has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you should reach out to a pedestrian accident lawyer to see what your options are. Contact ATX legal for a free case evaluation for your pedestrian accident case.

Pedestrian Accidents in Austin, Texas

Austin claims to be renowned for its walkability, but is unfortunately no stranger to pedestrian accidents. These accidents often have devastating consequences, leaving pedestrians with serious injuries and a long road to recovery. A negligent driver’s split-second lapse of attention can forever alter a pedestrian’s life, underscoring the importance of pedestrian safety measures and legal recourse.

Not surprisingly, pedestrian accidents often occur in urban settings, particularly at non-intersections. Cars and trucks pose a significant threat to pedestrians, given their size, speed, and potential for causing severe injuries, such as in a car accident. The aftermath of such incidents often involves hefty medical bills, the need for long-term care, and in some cases, life-altering injuries such as limb loss or spinal cord damage. Even the most cautious pedestrian is not immune to the risks posed by a distracted or negligent driver.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Texas

In the unfortunate event of a pedestrian accident, you are probably not thinking clearly. The necessary steps range from seeking immediate medical attention to preserving evidence and consulting with a pedestrian accident lawyer.

Most Important – Care for Your Health

Seeking medical attention should be your immediate priority following a pedestrian accident. Even if you feel fine, there could be underlying injuries that may not manifest until later. A medical professional can accurately assess the extent of your injuries and begin a proper treatment plan.

Besides ensuring your well-being, prompt medical attention serves another significant purpose, especially in car insurance claims. Insurance companies or defendants in a lawsuit may attempt to downplay your injuries if you do not seek medical attention promptly following an accident. By doing so, the insurance company involved in your car insurance claim may try to minimize their liability.

Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide variety of injuries, including:

• Broken bones

• Lacerations

• Concussions

• Spinal cord damage

If you’ve been involved in such an incident, you may be eligible to file a pedestrian accident claim.

In some cases, these injuries can lead to long-term complications and even permanent disability. Prompt medical attention can help mitigate these risks and provide a detailed record of your injuries, which can be crucial in a subsequent personal injury claim. It’s essential to have bodily injury liability coverage to protect yourself financially in such situations.

Preserve Evidence from the Scene

Collecting evidence from the accident scene is a vital step towards a strong personal injury claim. This includes photographic evidence of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Photos can capture crucial details like road conditions, traffic signals, and skid marks that may be pivotal in establishing the at-fault party.

Eyewitness accounts can also play a significant role in your case. If there were any bystanders who witnessed the accident, be sure to:

• Collect their contact information

• Ask them to provide a written statement or record a video statement

• Request their permission to use their account as evidence

Their accounts of the incident can corroborate your version of events and potentially strengthen your claim.

Lastly, it’s imperative to get a copy of the official police report. This document provides an unbiased account of the accident, including details of the involved parties, witness statements, and the officer’s observations and determinations at the scene. Your pedestrian accident lawyer can use this report, along with other collected evidence, to build a robust case on your behalf.

Call a Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Once your immediate health concerns are addressed, and necessary evidence is preserved, you should then consult an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer. Navigating the complex legal landscape following an accident can be overwhelming, especially while you’re focused on your recovery. A competent attorney can guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are protected and your interests are advocated for.

Pedestrian accident lawyers can provide invaluable assistance in cases of pedestrian accidents. They can conduct a comprehensive investigation, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and handle negotiations with insurance companies. Their goal is to secure a fair settlement that compensates for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve incurred.

It’s vital to consider the experience and track record of a pedestrian accident lawyer when selecting one. Personal Injury Attorneys such as ATX Legal offer free consultations and operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.

Only 1% of crashes in Texas involve pedestrians, yet they make up 19% of all traffic deaths.

While pedestrian accidents represent only a small fraction of the total crashes in Texas, they account for a significantly higher percentage of traffic fatalities. Despite making up just 1% of crashes, pedestrian accidents account for a staggering 19% of all traffic deaths. These statistics underscore the inherent risk pedestrians encounter, particularly in high-traffic urban areas such as Austin.

A variety of factors contribute to this high fatality rate. These include driver distraction, unfamiliarity with surroundings, and gender disparity. In response to these alarming statistics, Texas has introduced several measures aimed at improving pedestrian safety. These include upgraded crosswalks, pedestrian countdown signals, and pedestrian refuge islands, among others.

Despite these efforts, the high fatality rate persists, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and safety measures on the part of both pedestrians and drivers. It also highlights the importance of legal representation in the event of a pedestrian accident, as the consequences can be life-altering.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Gaining insight into the common causes of pedestrian accidents can aid in developing prevention strategies. One of the leading contributors to these accidents is driver negligence. This encompasses a range of behaviors such as aggressive driving, speeding, and distracted driving. Even a momentary lapse in attention can result in a serious accident, especially in crowded urban areas like Austin.

Environmental factors also play a significant role in pedestrian accidents. Areas with insufficient walkable roadways, poor lighting, or lack of designated crosswalks pose a higher risk for pedestrians. This lack of infrastructure necessitates greater vigilance on the part of pedestrians and drivers alike.

Pedestrians themselves can also contribute to accidents through risky behaviors. These include jaywalking, failing to yield the right of way to vehicles, or not using designated crosswalks. It’s important to remember that while pedestrians have certain rights, they also have responsibilities when it comes to road safety.

The Role of Evidence and Expert Testimony

Evidence and expert testimony can play a decisive role in obtaining a favorable outcome in a pedestrian accident case. Various experts, including medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, can provide detailed testimonies on the defendant’s negligence, the injuries suffered, and the overall impact on the victim. This impartial evidence and authoritative perspective can be instrumental in establishing liability and supporting the victim’s claim for compensation.

Accident reconstructionists, for example, can analyze the events leading to the accident, determining crucial factors like vehicle speed, point of impact, and the actions of both the pedestrian and driver at the time of the accident. This specialized knowledge can be invaluable in identifying liability and providing support for claims related to personal injury or property damage.

Engineering experts hold a significant role in pedestrian accident cases as well. They examine aspects such as roadway design, conditions, and potential defects, taking into account human factors like visibility and reaction time. Their comprehensive analysis can help comprehend the causation of the accident, which is pivotal in establishing liability.

Speak with an Austin, Tx Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Should you or a loved one be involved in a pedestrian accident, consulting an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is crucial. These professionals can:

• Provide a thorough review of your case

• Discuss your legal options

• Address any questions you may have

• Guide you through the complex legal landscape

• Ensure that your rights are protected

• Help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

The duties of a pedestrian accident attorney include:

• Providing legal counsel

• Assessing medical bills

• Assessing lost wages

• Assessing pain and suffering

• Assessing other damages

This comprehensive approach allows them to advocate effectively for their clients and secure the best possible outcome.

Most pedestrian accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. This means that you only pay if they win your case. This contingency fee structure ensures that their incentives are aligned with yours, encouraging them to pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

Summary

In conclusion, pedestrian accidents pose a significant threat in Austin, Texas, and navigating the aftermath can be a complex and emotionally draining ordeal. By understanding the common causes of these accidents and the steps to take following an incident, you can protect your rights and interests. Most importantly, consulting with a competent pedestrian accident attorney can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Contact ATX Legal for a Free Consultation

If you need to get in touch with a pedestrian accident law firm, fill out a contact form or text “ped consultation” to 512-677-5003. No fee ever unless we recover.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can you sue for pain and suffering in Texas?

In Texas, there is no specific amount for pain and suffering when filing a lawsuit. Decisions will be based on unique factors of each case.

What percentage do personal injury lawyers charge in Texas?

In Texas, personal injury lawyers typically charge between 33% and 40% of the settlement. It’s important to talk to your lawyer about their individual fee before signing any agreement.

How do I sue for personal injury in Texas?

To sue for personal injury in Texas, it’s best to consult with a lawyer. Your attorney can conduct an investigation, send a settlement demand letter, and file a lawsuit. The discovery process and settlement negotiations then follow before the trial preparation.

How long do personal injury cases take to settle in Texas?

On average, personal injury cases in Texas can take months to settle without the need for a trial or several years if the case proceeds to court.

What safety precautions can pedestrians take to reduce the risk of accidents?

To reduce the risk of accidents, pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing, use designated crosswalks, and stay aware of their surroundings.