Pedestrian Accidents: What To Know About Hiring A Lawyer Or Attorney: – Guest Post

If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering how to find a good lawyer or attorney to help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve. Choosing the right pedestrian accident lawyer can be a daunting task, especially if you are not familiar with the legal system. In this blog, we will explore the key factors to consider when searching for a pedestrian accident lawyer, including location, experience, fees, resources, ratings, and testimonials. We will also provide tips on how to find the best pedestrian accident lawyers in your city and how to choose the right attorney for your case.

Overview Of Pedestrian Rights:

Pedestrians have certain rights in the context of car accidents that are intended to protect them from harm and ensure that they receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages they suffer. Here are some examples of the rights of pedestrians in the context of car accidents:

• The right to seek damages: If a pedestrian is injured in an accident that was caused by the fault of a driver, the pedestrian has the right to seek damages from the driver or their insurance company. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• The right to a safe environment: Drivers have a duty to take reasonable care to ensure the safety of pedestrians, including by following traffic laws and yielding the right of way when necessary. If a driver fails to take reasonable care and a pedestrian is injured as a result, the pedestrian may be able to hold the driver liable for their injuries.
• The right to legal representation: If a pedestrian is involved in an accident and decides to pursue damages, they have the right to seek the help of a lawyer or attorney to represent them in legal proceedings. A pedestrian accident lawyer can provide legal guidance and help the pedestrian navigate the process of seeking compensation.

It is important to note that the specific rights of pedestrians may vary by state or jurisdiction. It is advisable for pedestrians to consult with a lawyer or attorney to understand their rights and options in the event of an accident.

Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents:

Pedestrian accidents are often caused by the failure of drivers to exercise caution and follow traffic laws. Here are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:

• Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a major cause of pedestrian accidents. Distractions can include things like texting, using a GPS, or eating while driving. When a driver is distracted, they may fail to see pedestrians or yield the right of way, leading to an accident.
• Failing to yield the right of way: Drivers are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in certain situations, such as when a pedestrian is crossing the street in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. If a driver fails to yield the right of way and hits a pedestrian, they may be held liable for the accident.
• Speeding: Speeding can increase the likelihood of a pedestrian accident by reducing a driver’s ability to react to changing conditions on the road. If a driver is going too fast, they may be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
• Alcohol or drug impairment: Impaired driving is a major cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs may have impaired judgment and reaction times, making it more likely that they will be involved in an accident.
• Poor visibility: Poor visibility can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. This can include things like poor lighting or obscured crosswalks. Drivers may have difficulty seeing pedestrians in these conditions, leading to an accident.

When To Seek The Help Of A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

There are several circumstances in which it may be advisable for a pedestrian who has been involved in an accident to seek the help of a lawyer:

• If the pedestrian has sustained serious injuries: If a pedestrian has sustained serious injuries in an accident, such as broken bones or head injuries, it may be advisable to seek the help of a lawyer. A lawyer can help the pedestrian understand their rights and options and assist with the process of seeking compensation for their injuries.
• If the driver is disputing fault: If the driver of the vehicle involved in the accident is disputing fault or denying responsibility, it may be advisable to seek the help of a lawyer. A lawyer can help the pedestrian gather evidence and build a strong case to demonstrate that the driver was at fault for the accident.
• If the pedestrian is unsure of their rights: Even if the pedestrian has not sustained serious injuries, they may still benefit from seeking the help of a lawyer if they are unsure of their rights or the legal process. A lawyer can provide legal guidance and help the pedestrian understand their options.
• If the pedestrian is having difficulty getting fair compensation: If the pedestrian is having difficulty getting fair compensation from the driver’s insurance company or is being offered a settlement that is insufficient to cover their damages, a lawyer may be able to help. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of the pedestrian or represent the pedestrian in court if necessary.

Overall, if a pedestrian has been involved in an accident and is unsure of their rights or the legal process, it may be advisable to seek the help of a lawyer. A lawyer can provide valuable legal guidance and assistance in seeking compensation for injuries and damages.

What To Look For In A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

There are several steps you can take to find a good pedestrian accident attorney in the US:

1. Determine your needs: It is important to understand what you are looking for in a pedestrian accident attorney and what your specific needs are. Consider factors such as location, experience, fees, and specialization.
2. Research attorneys: Use online directories, lawyer referral services, and local bar associations to find attorneys who specialize in pedestrian accident cases in your area. You can also check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have used pedestrian accident attorneys in the past.
3. Schedule consultations: Once you have identified a few potential attorneys, be sure to schedule consultations with them to get a better understanding of their experience and approach to handling cases like yours. This will give you an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of whether the attorney is a good fit for you.
4. Consider experience and credentials: When choosing a pedestrian accident attorney, it is important to consider their experience and credentials. Look for attorneys who have a track record of successfully handling pedestrian accident cases and who have received positive reviews from past clients.
5. Consider fees and payment arrangements: It is also important to consider fees and payment arrangements when choosing a pedestrian accident attorney. Some attorneys may charge by the hour, while others may work on a contingency basis, meaning they will only be paid if they win your case. Be sure to ask about fees and payment arrangements during consultations and choose an attorney whose fees and payment arrangements are reasonable and feasible for you.

How Can I Locate A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me?

There are several ways to locate a pedestrian accident lawyer near you in the USA:

1. Online directories: One of the easiest ways to find a pedestrian accident lawyer near you is to use an online directory. Many directories allow you to search by location and practice area, so you can easily find lawyers who specialize in pedestrian accident cases in your area.
2. Lawyer referral services: Many states have lawyer referral services that can connect you with attorneys in your area. These services often have directories that you can search by practice area, location, and other criteria.
3. Local bar associations: Local bar associations often maintain lists of attorneys in the area and may be able to provide referral information.
4. Personal recommendations: If you know someone who has used a pedestrian accident lawyer in the past, they may be able to recommend a lawyer to you.
5. Online reviews: You can also check online reviews to find a pedestrian accident lawyer near you. Many websites, such as Yelp and Google, allow you to search for attorneys by location and read reviews from past clients. 

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Attorney Fees:

If you are considering hiring a pedestrian accident attorney to represent you, it is important to understand how attorney fees work. In general, pedestrian accident attorneys charge fees in one of two ways: on an hourly basis or on a contingency basis.

Hourly fees are based on the attorney’s hourly rate and the number of hours they spend working on your case. Hourly fees are typically paid up front or on a regular basis, such as monthly.

Contingency fees are based on a percentage of the amount of money that the attorney is able to recover for you. If the attorney is successful in securing a settlement or judgment in your favor, they will receive a percentage of the amount as their fee. If the attorney is not successful in securing a settlement or judgment, they will not charge a fee.

In conclusion, pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries and significant damages. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. Hiring a lawyer or attorney who is experienced in handling pedestrian accidents can be beneficial in helping you to obtain the compensation you may be entitled to. It is important to choose a lawyer or attorney who is knowledgeable about the laws in your state, has a proven track record of success in pedestrian accident cases, and is dedicated to fighting for your rights. Do not hesitate to seek legal representation if you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, as time is often of the essence in these types of cases.