Collisions involving pedestrians and motor vehicles are particularly dangerous because the pedestrian has little to no protection when hit by a car or truck weighing several thousands of pounds. The sheer size and weight difference means that the pedestrian will likely suffer severe or fatal injuries in the crash, particularly when the vehicle is traveling at high speeds or if the driver does not see the pedestrian in time to apply the brakes.
One of the Best Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Hartford
If a careless driver hit you while you were walking, turn to the Hartford CT pedestrian accident attorneys at Jainchill & Beckert, LLC for the top-notch representation you deserve. We have extensive experience holding negligent motorists accountable when they harm pedestrians in our community. We are ready to put our skills to work for you. You could be owed significant compensation and we’re ready to demand it. Call or contact us online today for a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your case with a knowledgeable Hartford pedestrian accident lawyer.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
The fault for pedestrian accidents often lies with the driver of the vehicle, such as when they were:
- Backing out of a parking space without looking behind for pedestrians
- Speeding or driving too fast for the conditions
- Distracted driving
- Turning right at a stop sign or red light without checking for crossing pedestrians
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
What Are the Legal Rights and Duties of Pedestrians in Connecticut?
State law gives pedestrians the right of way under specific circumstances, such as:
- Crosswalks – Motor vehicles must slow down or stop to allow pedestrians who are using a crosswalk to fully cross the street or reach a zone of safety before proceeding.
- Crosswalks with a walk and don’t walk signals – Pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks with control signals only when there is a walk signal.
- Crosswalks with traffic signals or police officers – Pedestrians can cross the street if the traffic light is green ahead of all other vehicles, including turning vehicles if using crosswalks controlled by police officers or traffic signals. However, they must not cross against the officer’s direction or traffic signal.
- Crosswalks indicated by lines, devices, or markings on the road – Pedestrians have the right of way while using crosswalks indicated by lines, devices, or markers on the road’s surface. They can cross ahead of all motor vehicles, including turning vehicles.
Additionally, motorists must look for potential hazards, including nearby pedestrians.
Tips for Avoiding Pedestrian Accidents
You might be able to avoid an accident while walking near moving cars by following safety tips, such as:
- Remain on the sidewalk – Pedestrians must always use sidewalks if available. If you must walk on the road, walk against the flow of traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.
- Wear the proper attire – Wear light or bright clothing, especially when walking at night. You can also carry a flashlight or apply reflective tape to your clothing so drivers can see you.
- Keep your distance – Drivers can’t always see pedestrians in or near their path. They might not notice if you’re walking near their car, so keeping as much distance from them as possible is important.
- Obey all signals and signs – You have the right of way under specific circumstances. However, there are times when drivers are allowed to proceed ahead of you. Paying attention to traffic signs and signals is crucial to avoid getting in a moving car’s path.
- Stay alert – Just because you have the right of way doesn’t mean drivers will stop for you. Paying attention to your surroundings is critical. You should always check for approaching vehicles before crossing the road, even if you have a walk signal or green light. Avoid distractions that may take your attention away from the roadway.
How Do I Prove Liability for a Pedestrian Accident?
To recover compensation, you must prove that another party was responsible for the accident and your injuries. The evidence you need for your case will depend on the circumstances of your accident, but it might include:
- Pictures or videos of the accident scene
- Witness statements
- Medical records documenting injuries and treatment
- Traffic or security camera footage
- Police reports
- Statements from experts, such as doctors and accident reconstruction specialists
What Compensation Is Available Through a Hartford Pedestrian Accident?
You might be able to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party to seek compensation for your losses. Depending on the nature and severity of your injuries, they could owe you money for:
- Medical bills, including treatment and hospitalization
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Rehabilitation, prescriptions, physical therapy, and other treatment-related expenses
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Cost of repairing or replacing personal property
How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?
In Connecticut, the statute of limitations establishes a three-year window to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit for a pedestrian accident. That means you generally have three years from the crash date to initiate your lawsuit against the negligent driver or another party.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
Taking immediate action is critical if you sustain injuries in a pedestrian accident someone else causes. After leaving the crash scene, you should seek treatment at a hospital or doctor’s office.
After the doctor diagnoses your injury, they might recommend follow-up care. You must follow their instructions and continue treating your injury regularly until you heal. Some injuries are permanent, and recovering may not be possible. However, you should attend your appointments until your medical providers release you from their care. Stopping treatment too soon can negatively affect your health and your case. Contact our pedestrian accident attorney today.
Shortly after the collision, you should contact a Hartford, CT pedestrian accident lawyer from Jainchill & Beckert, LLC. We can investigate to determine who is responsible for the accident and gather the available evidence. We will pursue compensation on your behalf and try to achieve a favorable outcome.
Maintaining records is also beneficial after a pedestrian accident. Keep copies of all documents related to your case. You should hold onto your receipts, prescriptions, physician statements, diagnostic test results, and anything else you receive during your case. A Hartford pedestrian accident lawyer can help.
Contact a Hartford Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Jainchill & Beckert, LLC provides exceptional legal representation to those injured in pedestrian accidents in Hartford. We will be ready to hold the at-fault party accountable for the harm they’ve caused you. Call or contact us online for a free case review with an experienced Hartford, CT pedestrian accident lawyer today.
