When a pedestrian steps out their front door, they likely never expect to fall victim to a car accident. Many accidents can quickly become senseless tragedies, especially when they are preventable. A driver who gets behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking, has made a conscious decision to operate their vehicle knowing full well that it may not be the safest, or best decision. This can cause feelings of anger and resentment for accident victims and their families. There are many ways that a pedestrian may be injured in car accidents. If you or someone you love has been injured, it may be a good idea to consult with an attorney with experience in this area of practice.
Pedestrian Injuries
Accidents involving pedestrians can be incredibly serious. There is nothing protecting a pedestrian from a car. With very little to protect a pedestrian, a person can be vulnerable when walking down the sidewalk, through a parking lot or when crossing the street. A person who falls victim to a pedestrian accident, likely experienced the full impact of a vehicle to their body. Injuries a victim may suffer can be incredibly severe. Common types of pedestrian related injuries include:
- Back and Neck Injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Lacerations
- Pelvic Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Head Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Torn Tendons and Ligaments
- Broken Bones
There are so many ways a pedestrian can be injured. In some cases, injuries may be life threatening or even result in fatalities. Seeking medical treatment will play a key role for a pedestrian to ensure they receive the proper medical attention.
Ways Pedestrians Are Injured
There are numerous ways pedestrians involved in a car accident can sustain injuries. People behind the wheel after consuming alcohol may have lowered inhibitions. Drivers under the influence may have trouble seeing, drive too fast or even fail to adhere to traffic rules. As a result, it may be more difficult for a driver to have awareness of their surroundings. Examples of ways a pedestrian may succumb to an accident include:
- Drivers who are distracted
- Drivers who are under the influence
- Drivers do not see the pedestrian
- Not obeying traffic symbols
- Driving too fast
When a pedestrian is struck by a drunk driver, the results can be devastating. In 2016 alone nearly 6,000 pedestrians were killed on the roads. If you were injured, it may be in your best interest to contact an attorney.
Why Contact an Attorney?
Attorneys may prove to be an invaluable resource to victims of pedestrian related accidents involving drunk drivers. Although drivers who have caused such an accident stand to face a number of criminal consequences, namely DUI charges, they also may have to answer to you and your attorney through the civil claims process. If you have suffered losses from an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Why walk away empty handed following an accident? An attorney may utilize the experience and knowledge of the law to help you in navigating the legal system and protecting your rights.
Having an attorney who is on your side can help accident victims feel protected throughout the legal process. An insurance adjuster and attorneys for the opposing counsel will do everything in their power to shift the blame over to you. If you have been injured, you may be entitled to damages for the losses and injuries in which you have suffered. Take advantage of the free consultation offered by many attorneys so that you may gauge whether they are a right fit and find answers to the many questions you are plagued with.
Source: Drunk Driving Attorney Asbury Park, Rispoli & Borneo, P.C.