When you are hit in a crosswalk, the injuries can be devastating because there is no protection between you and the distracted driver’s vehicle. Victims also often face serious financial pressure as medical bills pile up, and they may be unable to work while they recover. You may be entitled to compensation if the injury occurred due to a negligent driver who ignored traffic signals or failed to yield. However, you must prove how their actions contributed to the accident and your losses.
At KGS Law PLLC, an experienced Houston pedestrian crosswalk accident lawyer could help fight for your right to compesnation. Our pedestrian accident attorneys could investigate the incident, gather evidence, and initiate a claim on your behalf.
What Are the Main Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries and fatalities that are often caused by preventable negligence. There are several leading causes of pedestrian crosswalk accidents in Houston that an attorney could review.
Distracted Driving
Drivers who text or talk on phones, eat, or adjust their entertainment systems may fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks or along roadways. This negligent behavior represents one of the leading causes of pedestrian strikes, particularly at crosswalks that require maximum attention.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces driver reaction time and increases the severity of an impact. Speeding through residential neighborhoods, school zones, or busy urban areas gives drivers insufficient time to stop for pedestrians, turning potentially minor incidents into fatal collisions.
Failure To Yield
Drivers ignoring crosswalk signals, failing to stop at stop signs, or turning without checking for pedestrians violate traffic laws designed to protect people who are walking. Right-of-way violations at crosswalks cause numerous preventable accidents for pedestrians.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and reduce coordination for drivers. Impaired drivers frequently drift into sidewalks, fail to see pedestrians, or make erratic maneuvers that endanger walkers and runners.
Poor Visibility and Inadequate Lighting
Drivers who fail to use headlights properly or municipalities that neglect street lighting create dangerous conditions for pedestrians, especially during the early morning or evening hours. Poorly lit crosswalks and intersections also increase the risk of crashes.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Government agencies that fail to maintain safe infrastructure contribute to pedestrian accidents. Faded crosswalk markings, missing traffic signals, obstructed sightlines from overgrown vegetation, and a lack of sidewalks force pedestrians into traffic lanes.
When one or more of these factors are present in a case, individuals may be entitled to compensation.
Settlements for Pedestrians Hit by Vehicles
Pedestrian accident settlements vary based on case-specific factors rather than following a standard amount. There are a few factors that influence how much you can receive for a pedestrian crosswalk accident in Houston, which a lawyer could further review with you.
Severity of Injury
Minor injuries, such as bruises or sprains, result in lower settlements than catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, multiple fractures, or permanent disabilities. The higher settlement value is due to extensive medical treatments, rehabilitation costs, lost earning capacity, and lifelong care requirements for the victim. Fatal pedestrian accidents resulting in wrongful death claims typically secure the highest settlements.
Availability of Evidence
Strong documentation enhances the value of your settlement. Our lawyers could use surveillance footage to capture the collision or the police report to establish driver fault. They could also use witness statements to confirm negligence.
Legal Representation
Working with an experienced attorney could contribute to a positive outcome. They understand how to negotiate with insurance companies, value claims, and present evidence in court.
To find out what your claim may be worth, schedule a consultation with our legal team as soon as possible.
Let a Houston Pedestrian Crosswalk Accident Attorney Help With Your Claim
A pedestrian accident can rob you of the simple joys of life, such as walking without fear, spending time outdoors, or enjoying your daily activities. For example, a victim with a leg fracture may struggle to play football again or participate in their favorite hobbies.
Despite your right to compensation, insurance companies often try to minimize the extent of such losses during settlement negotiations. A skilled Houston pedestrian crosswalk accident lawyer at KGS Law PLLC could counter these tactics by using strong evidence or even litigation in court. Contact our office and speak with our attorneys to learn how to maximize your compensation.