Sometimes it is better to travel on foot than by car. Walking has been shown to have great health benefits and can boost your mood, especially when you are out in the sun. However, it is important to be careful around traffic because you have nothing to protect you in the event of a collision.
Unfortunately, some motorists engage in risky behaviors on the road, which can endanger you and others. If a careless driver struck you while you were walking, you may be able to recover financial compensation with the help of a Hinesville pedestrian accident lawyer from Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers. Our team of personal injury attorneys has decades of experience handling complex traffic cases, and we can provide advice and guidance through the legal process. Reach out today to learn more.
Know the Rights and Responsibilities of Pedestrians
Certain laws apply to pedestrians to keep them safe. These rules establish where and when people can walk around moving vehicles. For instance, it is unlawful for someone to stand or walk in the street if a sidewalk is available. Similarly, a person cannot walk or stand in a roadway while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Crossing the street is only allowed at designated crosswalks unless the person waits for traffic to clear. Footbridges and tunnels are designed to keep people away from moving vehicles. Pedestrians should take advantage of these instead of using the roads.
Unfortunately, despite these rules, walkers can still suffer injury in collisions when drivers fail to pay attention. If you were struck by a car while walking in Hinesville, speak with our pedestrian accident attorney about your options.
How Is Fault Determined When Someone Is Hit by a Car?
Both pedestrians and motorists have rules to follow, but there is generally more emphasis on driver responsibilities because of the danger motor vehicles pose. It is the duty of the driver to pay attention when pedestrians are present. A car must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian in just about every situation. This is why it is almost always the driver’s fault when someone is hit by a car.
However, the pedestrian may be at least partially at fault in certain situations. Some examples include:
- Jumping into oncoming traffic and giving the driver no time to react
- Distracted walking, such as looking down at a cell phone
- Entering a dangerous area where signs expressly prohibit pedestrian traffic
- Being intoxicated near a busy street
The state has adopted a form of modified comparative fault, which can affect a legal claim. Under this statute, an injured pedestrian can still recover compensation, but it will be reduced by their percentage of fault for the collision. However, if they are 50 percent or more responsible, they cannot recover anything.
After a pedestrian crash in Hinesville, having skilled legal representation is essential. If the driver tries to blame you for the accident, an attorney can challenge their claims to protect your right to compensation.
Contact a Hinesville Attorney After a Pedestrian Collision
Your body is extremely vulnerable to serious injury when a car strikes you. The team at Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers is here to help you file a claim and represent your interests after an accident.
You can arrange a free consultation to discuss your situation with an attorney from our team. Because we work on contingency, you do not pay anything until we resolve your case. Contact our Hinesville pedestrian accident lawyer today to learn more.
N/a
