Whether you are out for a run, taking a leisurely walk, rollerblading, skateboarding, or using a wheelchair to get around outdoors, you are considered a pedestrian. While motorists have a duty to operate their vehicles safely around pedestrians, there is still a risk a driver will fail to see you or will be driving recklessly and accidentally hit you.
If this happens to you, contact a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options for pursuing compensation. If the driver was at fault for the accident, you deserve to hold them responsible for your losses, and our skilled personal injury attorneys can help you file a claim.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Fresno is not considered a pedestrian-friendly city, perhaps because it does not have good sidewalks in many of its neighborhoods. Being on foot in the area means running a risk of getting hit by a passing motor vehicle. Some common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Drivers failing to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk
- Distracted drivers failing to see someone walking on the road
- Drivers speeding in residential areas, parking lots, or other areas where there are many people on foot
- Drivers failing to reduce their speed to check for pedestrians when approaching an intersection
All drivers are supposed to obey traffic laws and operate their vehicles with reasonable care so they do not injure others on the road. In most cases, a driver striking a pedestrian with their vehicle is considered negligent. An experienced lawyer in Fresno can help determine who is responsible for a specific pedestrian accident. Reach out as soon as possible after your incident.
Compensation for Losses in a Pedestrian Accident
Because pedestrians lack the outer protection of a steel vehicle and its many safety features, injuries in pedestrian accidents can be severe and result in extensive medical expenses, including ambulance fees, hospital stays, medical treatments, surgeries, medication, and ongoing physical therapy. Besides that, the injured person may have lost wages because they were unable to work while being treated. If the accident left long-lasting injuries, there could be a loss of future wages that the injured person will never be able to earn. All these financial losses are considered when calculating a damage award.
As anyone who has been severely hurt in an accident knows, more is lost than money. There may be a considerable amount of pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, and a loss of enjoyment of life. These non-economic losses are also taken into consideration when pursuing compensation.
A Fresno lawyer can help hold the liable party responsible for the pedestrian accident by gathering evidence, calculating losses, negotiating with insurance companies, and filing a civil lawsuit when necessary. Learn more about the process of pursuing compensation by reaching out to our team.
Schedule a Consultation With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Fresno
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can bring pain, costly medical treatments, lost wages, and financial uncertainty. If you were hit by a negligent driver while walking, you have the right to seek justice and hold them accountable. Contact a Fresno pedestrian accident lawyer to start your path toward compensation.
At Valero Law Group, we work tirelessly to secure positive outcomes for injured individuals. We are always available to take your call and provide the guidance you need. For your convenience, we can hold our initial consultation at your home or any private location you choose. Reach out today to take the first step.