Middletown Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Middletown Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrians are one of the most vulnerable groups of people on the road, as their injuries are often much greater when an accident happens. The lack of protection while out on the street can lead to devastating injuries for pedestrians, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injury. If you are currently trying to recover from a pedestrian accident and are overwhelmed by the mounting medical bills, hire a Middletown pedestrian accident lawyer to help.

At Loughlin FitzGerald, P.C., we are committed to standing up for the pedestrians of Middletown who have been harmed due to the negligence of someone else. Our legal team has years of experience learning about the nuances of pedestrian accident cases, enabling us to effectively prove fault and negotiate for as high of a compensation award as possible. Regardless of what outcome you are looking for, we are here so you don’t have to embark on the journey alone.

What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?

While many pedestrian accidents could be preventable, they still happen at an alarming rate. The more the public is aware of what frequently causes these incidents, the more everyone could work to reduce their prevalence. Some of the most common leading factors that contribute to pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is when the automobile driver becomes distracted from what they are doing. Anytime a driver chooses to text, talk on the phone, or adjust their GPS device, it takes their eyes off the road. This can make it more difficult for them to spot a pedestrian in time to avoid a collision. Distracted driving also reduces an individual’s ability to react in time, making it harder to avoid unexpected situations.
• Speeding: When a driver chooses to ignore the posted speed limits, it gives them less time to react to pedestrians as they enter shared spaces on the road. In addition to not being able to respond on time, the sheer impact of a car driving faster than it should be can cause even harsher damages to the pedestrians involved. For example, a pedestrian who is struck at 60 mph is much more likely to suffer a permanent injury or be killed than one who is struck at 20 mph.
• Failing to Yield at Crosswalks: Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks when marked. However, this doesn’t mean that all drivers will comply every time they pass one. This disregard for crosswalks often happens at intersections without traffic signals or stop signs. For example, if a driver is in a hurry, they might fail to stop for someone who is crossing the street. This can cause the pedestrian to be hit, even if they were complying with the traffic rules.
• Driving Under the Influence: Another common cause of pedestrian accidents in Middletown, Connecticut is when someone chooses to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driving while impaired can have a number of consequences, such as losing your standard coordination, having slower reaction times, and making poor judgment decisions to unexpected hazards on the road. It could also make it more difficult to see a pedestrian, especially at night.
• Poor Visibility: There are many different environmental factors in Middletown, Connecticut that can cause poor visibility for both the driver of a vehicle and a pedestrian on the street. Fog and heavy rain are two common examples. When these conditions are active, it can make it more difficult for a driver to see a pedestrian on the road. If the driver and pedestrian are both in a poorly lit area with no streetlights, the pedestrian is at a higher risk of being hit if they are not wearing any reflective gear.

FAQs

Q: Does Insurance Cover Pedestrian Accidents?

A: Yes, insurance can cover pedestrian accidents, depending on the type of coverage someone has and the situation at hand. For example, if the driver who hit you has an active auto insurance policy, their liability coverage could be used to pay for your medical expenses and lost wages. If you have your own health and auto insurance, this can also help to supplement the driver’s plan. Working with a lawyer can ensure you are maximizing your insurance options.

Q: When Should I Not Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

A: While many people whose injuries appear minor may be tempted to forego hiring a Middletown personal injury lawyer, this is not recommended. For example, an insurance company can still present lowball offers that don’t cover the extent of what you could receive. If you had an attorney supervising this process, they would be able to help you spot these types of tactics and help combat them.

Q: Can a Driver Sue a Pedestrian?

A: Yes, it is possible for a driver to file a claim against a pedestrian if the pedestrian’s actions contributed to the accident. For example, if the pedestrian was jaywalking or ignored posted traffic signals, the driver could claim that it was the pedestrian’s negligence that caused them to crash. If you are a driver in this situation, contact our Middletown car accident attorney who can review the evidence of the accident with you and help determine if you have a claim.

Q: How Soon After the Accident Should I Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer Near Me?

A: It’s recommended you call an auto accident lawyer as soon as you can after an accident, as the earlier you involve an attorney, the quicker they can start collecting the evidence you need. You should not admit fault for any part of the accident. An attorney can intercede any attempt by an insurance company to pressure a quick settlement. Contacting an attorney right away is your optimal step to getting the settlement you deserve.

Contact Loughlin FitzGerald, P.C. Today

If you were recently involved in a pedestrian accident and are seeking knowledgeable legal representation, contact our firm today. We have a strong understanding of what makes a compelling pedestrian accident case and would be honored to help you earn the compensation you deserve.