Many of us have had that close call that makes our hearts pound; you are standing at a crosswalk getting ready to step out into the road when the driver of the car at the intersection guns it trying to beat the oncoming traffic. You stop in your tracks and stare at the driver; they continue to drive on and never saw you there.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports that each year approximately 5,000 pedestrian die in a motor vehicle related accident while close to 76.000 pedestrians suffered injuries after being hit by a car or truck in 2012.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian/motor vehicle related accident, contact the law offices of Herbert Thornbury today at (423) 443-3973 for a personal injury consultation. With over 30 years of litigation experience, our attorneys will work hard to help you receive the compensation you deserve from the injuries you have sustained.
What is Considered Driver Negligence in a Pedestrian Related Accident?
When determining who is at fault in a pedestrian/motor vehicle related accident, a court will consider the law of negligence. Each state has their own form of law of negligence; this law determines which person, the pedestrian or driver, failed to exercise care when proceeding.
When the fault lies at the hands of the driver of the motor vehicle, there are a several factors that can cause negligence. Such factors include:
- Distracted driving (i.e. texting while driving)
- Speeding
- Failure to use signal when turning
- Not yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Not obeying traffic signs and/or signals
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
What Do I Do If I’m the Pedestrian Injured by a Motor Vehicle?
If you are a pedestrian and have been involved in a motor vehicle related accident, there are several steps you should take to make sure your rights are protected. First, if you have been seriously injured in the accident, seek medical attention immediately. Once your injuries have been addressed you should:
- Record as much as you can about the incident: date, time, location, who was involved, description of the vehicle, insurance
- Keep track of all injuries and losses (i.e. wages) suffered due to the accident
- Collect physical evidence: take photos of injuries sustained, photos at scene of the accident
- Talk to people that witnessed the accident and record their testimony
If you have been injured as a pedestrian in a motor vehicle related accident, it is important to seek legal assistance to ensure your rights are protected. If you live in the Chattanooga, Tennessee or surrounding areas and you would like to discuss your case with a personal injury attorney, call Herbert Thornbury Attorney at Law today at (423) 443-3973. We will fight for the justice you deserve and help you claim any compensation owed to you for the injuries and suffering you have sustained. Call us today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.
