There is no denying that pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating traffic accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. Pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable in collisions with motor vehicles, lacking the protection a car provides.
As a result, they are at a much higher risk of suffering life-altering injuries or death. When such tragic accidents occur, the victims or their families must seek the guidance of a compassionate and experienced Bronx pedestrian accident lawyer to explore their legal options.
Pedestrian accidents are emotionally and financially difficult because of medical bills and lost wages. Holding the negligent parties accountable through legal action can provide some measure of justice and financial support for the victims and their families.
Having a skilled Bronx pedestrian accident lawyer by your side is essential for navigating the complexities of personal injury law and building a solid case.
A skilled Bronx, NY, lawyer will investigate a pedestrian accident, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and assess the damages.
They will negotiate with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and pain.
If necessary, they will not hesitate to take the case to trial to secure the maximum compensation the victim and their family deserve.
Pedestrian Accident Laws in the Bronx
Crosswalk Rules:
In the Bronx, as in any other large city, pedestrians have the right of way at marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians crossing the street at these designated areas.
When a pedestrian enters a crosswalk, drivers must come to a complete stop and allow them to cross safely. Failing to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk violates traffic laws and can lead to severe consequences for the negligent driver.
Sometimes, drivers don't stop for pedestrians crossing the street in their designated spot, even though they should always do so.
Traffic Regulations:
Both pedestrians and drivers must adhere to traffic regulations to ensure road safety. Pedestrians should always use sidewalks and cross the street at designated crosswalks or intersections.
Crossing the street without using a crosswalk or ignoring traffic signals is called jaywalking and can cause accidents.
On the other hand, drivers must exercise caution and follow speed limits, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as school zones or residential neighborhoods.
Pedestrian Rights:
In the Bronx, pedestrians have the right to expect safe conditions on the road. They should not face unnecessary risks or hazards due to negligent or reckless drivers.
Suppose a pedestrian is injured in an accident caused by a driver's negligence. In that case, they can seek compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Duty of Care:
Drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care when operating a motor vehicle. This duty extends to watching for pedestrians, slowing down or stopping when necessary, and yielding the right of way when required.
If drivers don't do their duty and cause a pedestrian accident, they may have to pay for injuries and damages.
Comparative Negligence:
Each party involved's negligence level determines the fault for accidents in New York.
Even if pedestrians are partly at fault for the accident, they may still be entitled to partial compensation.
However, the amount of compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault.
Statute of Limitations:
In New York, there is a time limit for filing a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident.
Act promptly and consult with a pedestrian accident attorney to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines and protect your rights. Depending on the involved parties, this time limit may be shorter than the regular timeframe.
As a pedestrian accident lawyer in The Bronx, our mission is to protect the rights of pedestrians and advocate for their total and fair compensation when they are injured due to someone else's negligence.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in the Bronx
Distracted driving is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents in the Bronx. When drivers divert their attention from the road to use their phones, adjust the radio, or engage in other distractions, they are likelier to miss pedestrians crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk.
This negligent behavior can result in devastating accidents and severe injuries to pedestrians.
Excessive speeding is another prevalent factor in pedestrian accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to unexpected situations, such as pedestrians suddenly crossing the street.
Faster speeds make accidents worse, causing more serious injuries to pedestrians.
Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and intersections, and drivers must yield to them. They are supposed to be the street king, and vehicles should always stop when pedestrians attempt to cross.
Unfortunately, some drivers fail to adhere to this rule and stop pedestrians, leading to dangerous collisions. In these cases, the driver's failure to yield is apparent negligence that can lead to severe consequences.
Ignoring traffic signals, like running red lights or not stopping at stop signs, is dangerous and can cause pedestrian accidents.
Pedestrians rely on traffic signals to cross the street safely, and when drivers ignore these signals, they put pedestrians at significant risk.
Driving drunk or high is very dangerous and greatly increases the chances of accidents involving pedestrians.
Impaired drivers have impaired judgment and reduced reaction times, making it difficult to respond to pedestrians on the road.
Pedestrian accidents happen when drivers don't follow rules in places where people walk a lot, like school zones.
Drivers must be extra careful in these areas, as not doing so can lead to severe accidents with pedestrians.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in the Bronx
1. Prioritize Safety:
The first and most crucial step after a pedestrian accident is prioritizing Safety. If you are the pedestrian involved, move to a safe location away from traffic to prevent further harm. If you cannot move, try to signal for help or ask bystanders to call emergency services immediately.
2. Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be obvious immediately, so a medical check-up can help find and treat any hidden damage.
Getting medical care creates a record of your injuries, which can help with your pedestrian accident claim.
3. Gather Evidence:
If you are physically able, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photos of the accident location, including the vehicle position, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
Obtain contact information from witnesses who saw the accident happen. This Evidence can be crucial in establishing liability and supporting your case.
4. Report the Accident:
Report the pedestrian accident to the police and provide them with all relevant information about the incident. A police report will be essential for documenting the details of the accident and the parties involved.
5. Avoid Making Statements:
After the accident, avoid making statements to insurance companies or at-fault parties without seeking legal advice. Speak carefully, as your words can be used against you. Talking to a lawyer specializing in pedestrian accidents before sharing details is wise.
6. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in the Bronx:
It is crucial to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in The Bronx as soon as possible. A good lawyer can help you with the law, protect your rights, and collect evidence to support your case.
They'll talk to insurance companies and fight for fair compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain.
Contact a Bronx Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The Ward Law Group believes in justice. Over the past 12 years, we have provided strong support to our clients, focusing on those who are disadvantaged because of their language or legal status.
Anyone should receive fair compensation for being a pedestrian accident victim of somebody else's negligent actions. We strive to bring these people to justice and pay for their mistakes.
Contact a Bronx pedestrian accident attorney at 855-DOLOR-55 for a free consultation.