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Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Phoenix
Fighting For Pedestrian Accident Victims in Arizona
Though state regulations require motor vehicles to yield to pedestrians in traffic, you would likely not be able to tell based on Arizona’s statistics regarding pedestrian accidents. In 2017, 226 Arizonians were the victims of fatal pedestrian accidents with over 1,500 more people suffering non-fatal injuries, making it the most dangerous state for pedestrians at the time. Simply navigating the city on foot can be deadly, with studies showing that 124 of the 226 fatalities and 939 of the 1,500+ injuries took place while pedestrians were crossing the street.
Accidents of this nature can forever change a person’s life, leaving permanent injuries and psychological trauma. At IBF Law Group in Phoenix, our personal injury lawyers in Phoenix are determined to help people get the compensation they deserve following a pedestrian accident. We treat each and every case with the time and attention it deserves, employing aggressive legal strategies in the pursuit of justice.
If you or someone you love has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, give us a call at (602) 833-1110. Our pedestrian accident attorneys in Phoenix are here to help.
Arizona Laws Regarding Pedestrians and Motorists
In Arizona, the laws by which motorists must abide typically have to do with three things:
- Crosswalks – In Arizona, motorists must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk and refrain from passing a vehicle that is stopped at a crosswalk.
- School Zones and Buses – Motorists cannot pass a bus that has deployed its stop sign. They also cannot exceed 15 miles per hour in a school zone.
- Due Care – Motorists must exercise due care to avoid hitting a pedestrian on any roadway. Violations of due care would be things like excessive speed, distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, etc.
Though this may seem like a short list, the third item on the list, due care, accounts for a wide variety of potential causes of an accident, making it a good defense in the absence of a violation of a more concrete law, such as those governing school zones and cross walks.
If you think a motorist has hit you or a loved one as a result of ignoring any of the above, IBF Law Group’s pedestrian accident lawyers in Phoenix can help you.
Pedestrians, too, must abide by certain rules in Arizona:
- If crossing the street on which there is no designated crossing area, pedestrians must yield to motorists.
- If a sidewalk is available, pedestrians must use it. If a sidewalk is not available, pedestrians may walk on the street; however, they must walk against traffic so that they can see incoming vehicles.
- Pedestrians must give vehicles the right of way when crossing the street if there is a tunnel or overhead path available that is specifically for pedestrian use.
As you can see, traffic laws in Arizona favor pedestrians, in that motorists are held to a high standard of care.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Pedestrians hit by vehicles often sustain head injuries, which can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. These injuries could lead to long-term cognitive impairments, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The impact of a vehicle can cause substantial damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries not only demand immediate medical attention but also long-term care and adaptations to daily life.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a collision can result in broken bones, including fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries can be incredibly painful and may necessitate surgeries, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods.
- Internal Injuries: Pedestrians can suffer from internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, and lungs. These injuries are often life-threatening and require prompt medical intervention.
- Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts and scrapes are common in pedestrian accidents, often resulting from contact with the vehicle or the road surface. While some injuries may be superficial, others can lead to significant scarring and require surgical treatment.
- Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can leave victims with lasting emotional scars. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common psychological effects that can significantly impact a victim's quality of life.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
The consequences of being hit by a vehicle vary, but they can be, and often are, very serious. In many cases, they result in permanent lifestyle changes and even the death of a pedestrian. If you suffer any injuries as a result of being struck by a vehicle, we will work hard to get you a favorable outcome in your case.
Our pedestrian accident attorneys in Phoenix will pursue compensation for any and all damages, including, but not limited to:
- Medical Bills
- Mental Anguish
- Lost Income
- Pain and Suffering
- Loss of Consortium
Punitive damages are also possible; however, these are generally only rewarded when the perpetrator demonstrates indefensible behavior or malice. If you have been the victim of a pedestrian accident, our lawyers will work with you to seek an outcome that is favorable and just.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Phoenix Today
Our pedestrian accident lawyers in Phoenix are here to provide the support and expertise you need during this challenging time. We understand the intricacies of Arizona's personal injury laws and are dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for our clients. Contact IBF Law Group today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovering your rightful compensation.
Contact IBF Law Group to get started with our Phoenix pedestrian accident lawyers.