Gary Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Walking keeps you healthy and is better for the environment than driving. However, there could be drawbacks to walking. In a society built around roads and motorists, a walk down the street can be a serious risk for a pedestrian. When drivers are not used to encountering walkers on their daily commutes, the sudden presence of one can spell disaster.

If you or a loved one is suffering from injuries sustained in an accident that happened while walking, a Gary pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to help. Pedestrians injured in accidents caused by reckless or negligent motorists have the right to pursue compensation and a compassionate accident attorney could help you. En Español.

Laws That Pedestrians Must Follow

Pedestrians and drivers should know the local laws regarding foot traffic. In the event of an accident, those with knowledge of Indiana pedestrian laws may benefit from knowing their rights. Some of the most important laws to keep in mind are:

  • Pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk
  • Vehicles may not overtake other cars to pass motorists waiting for pedestrians to cross the street
  • Pedestrians crossing the street without a crosswalk must yield to traffic
  • Drivers must yield to obviously blind pedestrians walking with a guide dog or cane
  • When sidewalks are unavailable, pedestrians must walk on the shoulder of the road and yield to traffic
  • Pedestrians must follow traffic control devices as motorists do

These are just a few of the most commonly violated pedestrian laws. When a motorist fails to obey these rules of the road, they jeopardize their safety and the safety of those around them. Anyone seeking clarification on a pedestrian law should speak to a Gary pedestrian accident attorney for guidance.

Consequences of Pedestrian Collisions

When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the consequences can be deadly. Unlike a collision between two cars, a pedestrian lacks the protection provided by a windshield, metal frame, and airbags. That is why so many motorists walk away from such incidents without a scratch, while the pedestrian suffers serious, life-threatening injuries, such as spinal cord damage or a TBI.

A pedestrian injured in an accident may require extensive medical treatment and need time off work to recuperate. While in the hospital, they may be incurring thousands of dollars of medical debt and find themselves unable to pay their bills. However, Indiana state law allows pedestrians to pursue compensation for the damages they sustain in a crash caused by another person’s negligence. This is why it is essential for an injured pedestrian to reach out to an experienced lawyer.

Speaking with Insurance Adjusters

Following a pedestrian accident, it is important to understand that the insurance company and the opposing driver are not looking out for the injured pedestrian’s best interests. The insurance adjuster will attempt to resolve the claim as quickly and as inexpensively as possible. Without an attorney advocate on their side, the plaintiff will be at the mercy of the insurance adjuster who might be lowballing a settlement offer or hiding information. The adjuster will often request a recorded statement from the pedestrian. Pedestrian accident lawyers generally advise against this practice since the adjuster may ask questions in such a way that is detrimental to the final outcome in the case.

One of the benefits of hiring an experienced lawyer following a pedestrian accident in Gary is that they are familiar with all aspects of the case, including how the insurers operate. A lawyer could take over the task of communicating with all other parties in order to preserve the plaintiff’s claim.

Discover How a Gary Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Even if you were caught off guard, you can take action to mitigate the damage done by a reckless driver. A Gary pedestrian accident lawyer could help you seek recompense for all you have lost. In addition to the medical bills and lost wages, you may be able to recover compensation for non-economic damages such as the pain and suffering endured because of the accident.

Initial consultations are free of charge and require no obligation. Consider the meeting a fact-finding mission and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to seek the justice you deserve.