Pedestrian accidents – what you should know

Every year, approximately 5,000 pedestrians die after an impact with a car. Studies conducted in 2012 indicate that at least 76,000 pedestrians suffered injuries after an accident involving a motor vehicle. Many of these accidents occur when people try to cross highways on foot. However, many pedestrian accidents occur when people cross the street using a protected cross-walk or simply while walking down the sidewalk.

Imagine taking a nice walk in Pikeville to enjoy the beautiful weather when a vehicle loses control and hits you from behind. This is exactly what recently happened to a man in the United Kingdom. As he was casually strolling down the street, a city bus lost control on a tight curve and plowed into the man, sending him approximately twenty feet. Fortunately, the pedestrian was lucky and walked away with only a few scrapes and bruises. Many people are not so lucky.

If you have suffered an injury because of an accident with a negligent driver, you may be able to recover damages. If the driver was negligent and caused your injuries, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and possibly even for emotional trauma. A Kentucky pedestrian accident attorney from our firm can help you.

In order to file a successful claim, certain circumstances must exist. First, the driver that caused the accident must have owed you a legal duty. For example, a driver has a legal duty to operate the vehicle in a safe manner and obey traffic laws. Second, the driver must have failed or neglected that duty and, by doing so, caused your injury.

While individuals operating motor vehicles owe a duty of care, you must also use reasonable care when it comes to your own personal safety. In other words, if you failed to use a protected crosswalk and stepped out in front of moving traffic, it is possible that a judge may grossly reduce your claim for damages on the grounds of comparable negligence. Ignoring the walk signal at crosswalks and disrupting the flow of traffic could also result in a judge denying you the full scope of damages you request.

If you have been involved in an accident with a vehicle, the first thing you should do is call the police. Also, do not leave the scene until you have given your statement to law enforcement and have been checked over by emergency responders. In addition, be sure to get contact information from any individuals that witnessed the accident. Furthermore, do not make any statements to the driver involved or to the insurance company since any information you give might be used to deny your claim.