Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Charlotte, NC
People choose to walk for a number of reasons. Whether they are taking a stroll for their health, walking the dog, or heading to work, walking can be an efficient way to get around a city like Charlotte. Unfortunately, not all drivers safely share the road with pedestrians. If, for example, a car was to turn a corner without stopping or yielding correctly and hit a pedestrian, the injury victim could sustain catastrophic or even fatal injuries. As a result, their family’s lives could change entirely. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, a Charlotte NC pedestrian accident attorney from Edwards Injury Law can help.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in North Carolina?
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, fatal pedestrian crashes increased by 7.8% in 2020. In total, 249 pedestrians were killed–accounting for 12% of all pedestrian crashes.
With pedestrian accidents on the rise, injury victims need to understand their legal rights and options. If you sustained injuries as a pedestrian in a motor vehicle accident, we can evaluate your situation and help you determine what steps you should take to seek the compensation you need to recover.
What Laws Apply to Pedestrians in North Carolina?
In order to protect pedestrians, North Carolina has right-of-way laws that outline drivers’ responsibilities. Per North Carolina Motor Vehicle Code, §20-173, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at or near intersections. Drivers must slow down, yield, or stop to allow the pedestrian to cross the street safely.
There are also instances where pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to vehicles. For example, pedestrians must allow vehicles the right of way if they are crossing the road at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
When a pedestrian’s rights are violated, and they are injured as a result, civil law allows them to file a claim to seek compensation for their losses. If you choose to file a claim with the guidance of a pedestrian accident lawyer, they will start by determining the cause of the crash to ensure you have a valid claim.
With state laws supporting your claim, you can be assured that you are on the best possible path to recovery. While most pedestrian accident claims resolve in a settlement via negotiations, there is a chance you could need to pursue further action. If the insurance company is not willing to pay out what you are owed, you can file a lawsuit to seek an official verdict from a judge or jury. We are well-versed in North Carolina personal injury laws, so we can guide you through the entire process to ensure your rights are upheld.
What Are the Common Causes and Consequences of Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accident victims looking to file a personal injury claim need to determine the cause of their accident to have a strong foundation. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Charlotte include:
- Distracted driving. Cell phones, radio and temperature controls, passengers, and navigational systems are just a few of the most common distractions drivers need to overcome. When a driver fails to take full stock of their surrounding, there is an increased risk of striking a pedestrian.
- Left-hand turns. After distracted driving, left-hand turns are a significant cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers making left-hand turns are often more focused on oncoming traffic than on pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Speeding. If a driver is disobeying the speed limit, they will have a more difficult time stopping. An unsuspecting pedestrian could be struck by a vehicle if the driver is unable to yield in time.
The consequences of a pedestrian accident vary depending on numerous factors, including the speed at which the vehicle was traveling, the prior health status of the pedestrian, the type of vehicle, and the location of the crash. However, the victim is likely to sustain injuries and financial losses. Common injuries we see include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, road rash, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries.
What Is My Pedestrian Accident Injury Worth?
Your accident claim’s value depends on your economic and noneconomic losses. When you work with a pedestrian accident attorney, they will determine what full and fair compensation is based on your unique circumstances.
Economic damages are calculable. To determine a fair amount, your attorney will total your medical bills, lost wages, future medical care, loss of earning capacity, property damage expenses, and other related costs.
Noneconomic damages are more challenging to value because they are based on more subjective losses. To determine a reasonable valuation, you and your lawyer will discuss the impact the accident has had on your life. Factors include pain and suffering, mental anguish, changes in family status, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
How Do I Schedule a Consultation With Edwards Injury Law?
As a black- and veteran-owned law firm, Edwards Injury Law is well aware of the struggles and adversities our clients face. We strive to affect positive outcomes for the injury victims that seek help from us.
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident and are looking to find answers, schedule a consultation with our firm by reaching out online. We will review your situation closely and help you determine how best to proceed to get your life back in order as quickly as possible.
