Bryan-College Station Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

FIGHTING FOR PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT VICTIMS IN TEXAS

At Paradowski Law, we are passionate about serving the needs of the injured and their families. Where you have been injured due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another, you may be eligible for compensation under Texas personal injury law. Attorney Jeff Paradowski is a skilled trial lawyer in this field with Board Certification by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, which only a small percentage of all Texas lawyers achieve. He has earned a reputation for the expertise, experience, and integrity he brings to every case.

Request Your Free Consultation with a Bryan-College Station Pedestrian Accident Lawyer or call us at (855) 524-2976. 

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Risks in Texas

Pedestrian accidents are a serious issue in Texas, causing numerous injuries and fatalities each year. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, (DOT) in 2021, 5,370 pedestrian accidents occurred in the state, resulting in 1,467 serious injuries and 843 fatalities. This was a 15 percent rise in pedestrian fatalities over the prior year and represents one in five of all traffic deaths in the state.

Pedestrian accidents are particularly severe because pedestrians have no protection against the force of a vehicle. Even at low speeds, a collision between a car and a pedestrian can result in life-altering injuries or death.

Key Factors Leading to Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur in many ways through various causes. 

These can include: 

• Driver negligence: Distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians, and driving under the influence are all examples of driver negligence that can lead to pedestrian accidents.
• Poor visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in low-light conditions or when visibility is obstructed by weather, objects, or glare.
• Lack of pedestrian infrastructure: Inadequate crosswalks, sidewalks, and pedestrian signals can make it difficult for pedestrians to navigate safely.
• Pedestrian error: Sometimes, pedestrians may be at fault for an accident, such as when they jaywalk, cross against traffic signals, or walk while intoxicated or distracted by their phones.

The Texas DOT has ranked the top factors involved in pedestrian accidents as pedestrian failure to yield the right-of-way to motor vehicles, drivers failing to yield to pedestrians, driver inattention, and speeding. 

Common Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common and often result in serious injuries or fatalities due to the lack of physical protection for pedestrians. These accidents can occur in various situations, including:

• Crosswalk Collisions: Drivers failing to yield at designated crosswalks or disregarding traffic signals can cause severe pedestrian injuries.
• Parking Lot Accidents: With reduced visibility and distracted drivers, parking lots are hotspots for pedestrian accidents.
• Truck Accidents: Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in collisions with large trucks. These accidents often happen at intersections or during turns, where truck drivers may struggle with blind spots, making it harder to spot pedestrians.
• Backing-Up Incidents: Vehicles reversing in driveways or parking lots may hit pedestrians due to limited rear visibility.
• Distracted Driving or Walking: Accidents can occur when drivers or pedestrians are distracted by mobile devices, leading to lapses in attention.

Taking precautions such as obeying traffic signals, staying alert, and wearing visible clothing can help reduce the risk of these incidents.

Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents

The emergence of rideshare services has undeniably transformed the way we travel. However, with the convenience of these services comes an increased risk of pedestrian accidents. Common injuries resulting from pedestrian accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Pedestrians are vulnerable to severe head injuries in collisions with vehicles. TBIs can have long-term consequences, affecting cognitive functions and overall quality of life.
• Orthopedic Injuries: Fractures, dislocations, and sprains are prevalent among pedestrians involved in accidents. The impact of a vehicle can cause significant damage to bones and joints, necessitating extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a crash may lead to spinal cord injuries, impacting mobility and sometimes resulting in paralysis. These injuries often need ongoing medical care and adaptive equipment.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Pedestrians may suffer from soft tissue injuries, such as bruises, cuts, and contusions, due to the impact of a vehicle. While these may initially seem minor, they can develop into more serious complications.
• Emotional Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can cause significant emotional trauma. Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are very common psychological consequences that may require professional intervention.

What Does A Pedestrian Accident Claim Entail?

Should you or someone close to you experience a pedestrian accident, recognizing your legal rights and compensation avenues is crucial. The skilled team of pedestrian accident attorneys at Paradowski Law is committed to advocating for the rights of those impacted by pedestrian accidents in Texas. We are here to guide you through the legal landscape and help secure the compensation you need for medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering, and additional losses.

When seeking compensation for a pedestrian accident, crucial elements to keep in mind include:

• Gathering and preserving evidence
• Having meetings with insurance firms
• Initiating a personal injury claim, if necessary
• Understanding the possible reimbursement for damages

The intricacies of a pedestrian accident case might be overwhelming. Contact our pedestrian accident attorneys in Bryan-College Station for a free consultation to discuss your case and legal options.

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim For A Pedestrian Accident?

The statute of limitations in Texas normally lasts two years from the date of the event in question. This means that if you are seeking to get paid for the damages and losses that you endured in the accident, you must pursue a lawsuit within this time frame. You will typically lose the ability to seek compensation if you do not file within this window of time.

It's important to note that specific circumstances could potentially alter this timeframe, making it even more crucial to seek professional legal advice quickly. A knowledgeable Bryan-College Station pedestrian accident attorney will help you understand these nuances, ensuring you're fully informed about your rights and how best to proceed with your claim in Texas.

Considering the details and the importance of meeting this strict deadline, it's highly recommended to seek advice from a pedestrian accident lawyer in Bryan-College Station promptly following the incident. Such an attorney can offer invaluable assistance with navigating the legal system, securing and maintaining critical evidence, and filing your claim within the required timeframe.