Fort Worth Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Fighting For Pedestrian Accident Victims in Texas

In the event of an accident, pedestrians are at high risk of injury. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you must take immediate legal action with the help of a Fort Worth pedestrian accident lawyer. The seasoned legal team at The Law Offices of James M. Stanley fights to obtain the maximum compensation possible for your injuries so you can focus on healing.

Our firm has over 35 years of experience fighting for personal injury victims. We know what it takes to protect your rights in and out of the courtroom and when you put your faith in us, we’re not afraid to take your case to trial and advocate on your behalf.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Some of the injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can be catastrophic and even fatal. Negligent drivers who are distracted by technology, disobey traffic signs or are under the influence of drugs and alcohol account for nearly 5,000 pedestrian fatalities each year. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or lost their life at the hands of an inattentive driver, you need a dedicated Fort Worth pedestrian accidents attorney who can stand by your side.

Some pedestrian accident injuries include:

• Bone fractures
• Loss of limbs
• Spinal cord injuries
• Head trauma

With these types of injuries, insurance companies will try to limit their payout, typically offering you compensation that does not cover your total cost of damage and losses. Do not accept the first offer from an insurance company without consulting a trusted member from our legal counsel.

Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault in a Car Pedestrian Accident?

While pedestrians do always have the right of way on the road, it doesn’t mean that in the event of an accident the pedestrian can’t be found at least partially responsible for an accident. Some of the most common situations where this can happen are:

• A pedestrian was crossing the road outside a crosswalk
• A pedestrian was crossing against the traffic signal
• A pedestrian was walking where pedestrian access is clearly not allowed

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our firm today to learn how we can help you.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, often due to driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving – Drivers who text, eat, adjust the radio, or talk to passengers may not see a pedestrian in time to stop.
• Speeding and reckless driving – A speeding driver has less time to react, making accidents more severe.
• Drunk or impaired driving – Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time and impair judgment, leading to serious collisions.
• Failure to yield at crosswalks – Many drivers fail to stop for pedestrians, even when they have the right of way.
• Poor road or weather conditions – Slippery roads, low visibility, and poor lighting can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights.

1. Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. Get checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
2. Gather evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. If possible, get witness statements and a copy of the police report.
3. Avoid speaking to insurance companies without a lawyer – Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Let an attorney handle communications to protect your rights.
4. Contact a pedestrian accident attorney – A lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you seek full compensation for your injuries.

Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims

A pedestrian accident can lead to significant financial and emotional burdens. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation, including:

• Medical expenses – Covers hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity – If you miss work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost income and reduced ability to work in the future.
• Pain and suffering – Covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Emotional distress – Anxiety, PTSD, and other psychological effects of an accident may qualify for compensation.
• Wrongful death claims – If a loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident, their family may seek compensation for funeral costs and loss of companionship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Pedestrian Accidents

What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?

• If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, you should report the incident to the police immediately. If the driver is not found, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage if you have it on your auto insurance policy.

Can I file a claim if I was jaywalking when the accident happened?

• Yes, you may still have a case even if you were jaywalking. Texas follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you were partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. A lawyer can help determine how much compensation you may still be entitled to.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Texas?

• In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there may be exceptions depending on your case, such as accidents involving government vehicles. It’s best to consult an attorney as soon as possible.

What if I wasn’t in a crosswalk when I was hit?

• Pedestrians do not always have to use a crosswalk, but failing to do so could impact your claim. However, drivers still have a duty to remain alert and avoid hitting pedestrians whenever possible. An attorney can help gather evidence to prove the driver was primarily at fault.

Will my case go to court, or can it be settled outside of court?

• Many pedestrian accident cases are settled through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my pedestrian accident case?

• While you are not required to have a lawyer, having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of getting full compensation. Insurance companies often try to settle for the lowest amount possible, and an experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf and take the case to trial if necessary.

Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Fort Worth Today

The Law Offices of James M. Stanley believe that everyone should have a shot at justice and compensation – regardless of income level. That’s why we work on a no win, no pay basis. Our Fort Worth pedestrian accident attorneys take the time to understand your story and tailor solutions to fit your needs. From start to finish, we make it our duty and honor to represent your rights.