Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Indianapolis, IN

When you need help following a pedestrian accident, reach out to our trusted Indianapolis, IN pedestrian accident lawyer. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes that fatal traffic accidents that involve pedestrians are on the rise, and if you have been a victim of an accident, our team is here to help you. In 2018 these numbers saw a 3% increase; these numbers don’t include bicycles or scooters. If a vehicle hits a pedestrian at high speeds, the injuries can be fatal or otherwise serious. But did you know that a driver could injure a pedestrian going just ten miles per hour? When you come to our office, we want you to know that every client is valued. 

It’s very important that drivers watch for pedestrians and mind the law of the road—but furthermore, knowing what to do if you are involved in or witness a pedestrian accident can help you when you get called to court, because you’ll most definitely be involved in a suit if you’re involved in this type of accident. As a driver, it’s important that you learn the basic rules of fault and how injuries or damages may be compensated. To discuss your case with our team, contact Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers today.

Seeking Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident

After a pedestrian accident victims may face significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. We understand the impact of these accidents on individuals and their families.  Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, requiring immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment. Compensation may cover hospital bills, surgery costs, medication expenses, physical therapy, and any other necessary medical care related to the accident. Injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents may also lead to time off work, resulting in lost wages. Moreover, if the injuries are severe, victims may suffer a reduced capacity to work in the future. Compensation can address both current lost income and potential future earnings that have been affected by the accident.

Pedestrian accidents can cause immense physical pain and emotional suffering. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to provide monetary relief for the mental anguish, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life experienced by the victim. In cases where the accident results in permanent disabilities or disfigurement, victims may be entitled to compensation to account for the impact of these life-altering changes on their personal and professional lives.

If personal belongings, such as clothing, electronics, or other items, are damaged in the accident, compensation can be sought to repair or replace them. In cases where a pedestrian’s injuries have significantly affected their relationship with their spouse, compensation may be available for the loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and support.

Tragically, some pedestrian accidents can result in fatalities. In such cases, surviving family members may be eligible to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim to cover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. 

How Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help

Navigating a pedestrian accident claim in Indianapolis requires experienced and knowledgeable representation. The attorneys at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers have a proven track record of advocating for accident victims and securing fair compensation for their losses. Our services include investigation, negotiation, litigation, and constant compassionate support. Our legal team conducts a comprehensive investigation of the accident, collecting crucial evidence, analyzing police reports, and consulting with experts when needed to establish liability and strengthen your case. We skillfully negotiate with insurance companies and at-fault parties to secure a fair settlement that adequately covers your damages, sparing you from the stress and inconvenience of handling negotiations on your own. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our trial-ready lawyers are prepared to take your case to court and present a compelling argument to a jury. We understand the emotional toll of a pedestrian accident. Our team offers compassionate support, guiding you through the legal process with care and empathy.

Injuries Suffered in Pedestrian Accidents

As a child, you are told to look both ways before crossing the street. Even though you might do so, some people speed down the road, lose control of their vehicle, and strike a pedestrian. If you are a pedestrian, you do not have any protection between yourself and the pavement. Therefore, even if you are struck by a motor vehicle at low speed, you could still end up with serious injuries. Understanding the most common injuries can help you seek the proper treatment if you have been the victim of a pedestrian accident.

Broken Legs

One of the most common injuries pedestrians suffer if they are hit by a motor vehicle is a broken leg. In a lot of cases, people are struck from the side because they are trying to cross the street perpendicular to the direction of traffic. When a motor vehicle hits you, you could break your tibia, fibula, or femur. In some cases, these bone fractures could require surgery.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

You might also suffer a traumatic brain injury. If you are struck by a motor vehicle, you could hit your head on the hood of the car. Then, you could fall off the hood of the car, striking your head on the pavement. This could lead to a skull fracture, a concussion, a cerebral contusion, or a brain bleed. This could require emergency surgery as well. After seeking medical care, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in Indianapolis. 

Hip Injuries

The grill of a car is generally at the height of the hip of an adult. Therefore, you could also suffer a hip injury. This could lead to a variety of complications, depriving your leg of important blood flow. You need to seek medical care as quickly as possible, as many hip injuries will require surgery. Then, you should reach out to a lawyer for more information. 

Types Of Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle

Pedestrian accidents often lead to serious injuries because people on foot have little protection when a vehicle is involved. These incidents can happen in many different ways, and each situation may involve different facts, insurance issues, and legal considerations. Our  Indianapolis, IN pedestrian accident lawyer helps individuals and families who were hurt while walking in areas where drivers failed to act responsibly. While every situation is unique, certain patterns appear in many claims. Below are several common situations our award-winning firm handles when representing injured pedestrians.

Crosswalk Incidents

Crosswalks are designed to give people a safe place to cross the street, yet many collisions still occur in these areas. Drivers sometimes fail to stop at marked crossings, ignore traffic signals, or turn without checking for people already in the roadway.

When a person is struck while lawfully crossing the street, the impact can cause serious harm, such as fractures, head injuries, or long recovery periods. Our Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer reviews traffic signals, driver actions, witness statements, and available footage to understand how the crash occurred. These details often play an important role in determining responsibility.

Collisions In Parking Lots

Parking areas may seem slower and less dangerous than busy roads, but they can still present real risks. Drivers backing out of spaces or turning through crowded lanes may overlook someone walking nearby.

In many cases, the driver claims they never saw the pedestrian. However, store security cameras, witness accounts, and vehicle damage can help clarify what happened. Parking lot collisions often occur at low speeds, but even those impacts can cause lasting injuries.

Crashes Near Schools And Residential Areas

Neighborhood streets and school zones should be some of the safest places for people on foot. Unfortunately, accidents still occur when drivers speed through residential roads or fail to watch for children crossing the street.

Cases involving young pedestrians can be especially difficult for families. Our Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer examines factors such as posted speed limits, traffic control signs, and whether drivers followed local safety rules. These details may show how a preventable crash occurred in an area meant to protect people walking nearby.

Incidents Involving Distracted Drivers

Distraction behind the wheel continues to be a major factor in many roadway incidents. Drivers may look down at a phone, adjust navigation systems, or focus on something inside the vehicle instead of the road ahead.

Even a short lapse in attention can lead to serious harm when someone is crossing the street or walking along the road. In these cases, phone records, witness observations, and accident reconstruction may help show whether a driver’s attention was diverted at the time of the crash.

Contact Our Legal Professionals

For decades, our team at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers has worked with people who have been hurt while walking in public spaces. If you or someone you care about has been involved in this type of incident, speaking with our legal professionals can help you learn about possible next steps and how your claim may move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality that occurs in bustling cities like Indianapolis, IN. Despite various safety measures in place, pedestrians remain vulnerable on the city’s busy streets. At Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families. In this article, we delve into the common causes of pedestrian accidents in Indianapolis, the associated legal implications, and the importance of seeking legal representation to protect the rights of those affected.

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Indianapolis is distracted driving. With the widespread use of smartphones and other electronic devices, drivers often find themselves looking away from the road, increasing the risk of striking pedestrians.

Failure to Yield

Pedestrians have the right of way in designated crosswalks and intersections. However, drivers failing to yield or obey traffic signals and signs can lead to catastrophic accidents. Our experienced attorneys have seen many instances where pedestrians were injured due to a driver’s failure to yield properly.

Speeding

Excessive speed is a significant factor in pedestrian accidents. When drivers exceed the posted speed limits, their ability to react to unexpected situations is compromised. Pedestrians are particularly susceptible to severe injuries in high-speed collisions, and our lawyers have successfully represented victims who suffered due to reckless driving.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a prevalent issue in Indianapolis. Impaired drivers often have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to hit pedestrians. Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers advocates for victims harmed by drivers operating their vehicles while intoxicated.

Poor Road Conditions

Inadequate road maintenance and poor lighting can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. Broken sidewalks, a lack of proper signage, and inadequate pedestrian crossings can create hazardous situations for those on foot. Our legal team thoroughly investigates such cases to identify responsible parties and pursue just compensation for our clients.

Vehicle Defects

Sometimes, pedestrian accidents occur due to vehicle defects or malfunctions. Defective brakes, steering systems, or faulty safety features can lead to life-threatening collisions. Our lawyers work closely with accident reconstruction experts to establish liability and seek compensation from manufacturers or other responsible parties.

Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident Infographic

Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident Statistics

According to the National Safety Council, almost 9,000 pedestrians die in pedestrian non-traffic incidents each year. The majority of those accidents – 85 percent – occur in urban areas. Almost 75 percent happen during evening and night hours, and 23 percent take place at intersections.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact a skilled Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident FAQs

How can a pedestrian accident lawyer help me with my claim?

A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in various ways. They will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights in court if necessary. Their expertise ensures that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages while allowing you to focus on your recovery.

What if the pedestrian accident was partially my fault?

Indiana follows a comparative fault system, meaning compensation can still be recovered even if the pedestrian shares some fault in the accident. However, the amount of compensation awarded will be reduced proportionally to the pedestrian’s percentage of fault. An experienced attorney can help assess your case and determine how comparative fault may impact your claim.

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

In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to act promptly and consult with our team to ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time frame.

Can I still recover compensation if the driver fled the scene of the accident?

Yes, you may still be eligible for compensation even if the driver responsible for the accident fled the scene (hit-and-run). In such cases, your attorney can explore other options for recovering damages, such as uninsured motorist coverage from your insurance policy or pursuing a claim against the responsible party once identified.

What if the insurance company offers me a settlement soon after the accident?

It’s essential to be cautious when dealing with insurance companies shortly after an accident. They may offer quick settlements to save costs, but these offers are often insufficient to cover the full extent of your damages. It’s in your best interest to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer before accepting any settlement. A skilled attorney can evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair and comprehensive compensation package.

How is fault determined?

Our pedestrian accident lawyer will be able to help you determine whether you’re at fault or not.. Fault depends on the accident. Sometimes both people are at fault—other times, the pedestrian may have walked into the road without the go-ahead from a pedestrian signal at the crosswalk. Sometimes, the driver may have ignored a red light.

Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident Glossary

Below, our award-winning Indianapolis, IN pedestrian accident lawyer has provided an expanded glossary of legal terms commonly associated with pedestrian accident cases. These terms frequently appear in discussions with attorneys, insurance companies, and courts. Understanding these phrases can help injured individuals better follow the legal process and make informed decisions about their claim.

Comparative Fault

Comparative fault is a legal principle that reduces an injured person’s compensation if they are found partially responsible for the accident. The court assigns a percentage of fault to each party, and any recovery is reduced by the injured person’s share of responsibility. In pedestrian accident cases, this issue often arises when there are disputes about whether the pedestrian crossed outside a designated area, ignored traffic signals, or was distracted. Insurance companies frequently review police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to argue shared responsibility. Even a small percentage of assigned fault can affect the final financial recovery, which is why factual evidence plays a significant role in these cases.

Premises Liability

Premises liability is a legal theory that may apply if a pedestrian is injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property, such as a poorly maintained sidewalk, icy walkway, uneven pavement, or obstructed path. Property owners can be held responsible if hazardous conditions contribute to an injury. This type of claim may involve businesses, apartment complexes, or private homeowners. To succeed, the injured person typically must show that the property owner knew or reasonably should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it. Maintenance records, inspection logs, and prior complaints can become important pieces of evidence when evaluating whether the property owner acted reasonably under the circumstances.

Personal Injury Claim

A personal injury claim is a civil claim filed by an injured person seeking financial compensation from the party responsible for causing harm. In pedestrian accident cases, this claim may seek payment for medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and other related losses. The process generally begins with notifying the at-fault party’s insurance company and presenting documentation of the injuries and expenses. Medical records, employment verification, and accident reports often support the claim. If negotiations do not resolve the matter, the injured person may file a lawsuit in civil court. According to our Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer, most personal injury claims resolve through negotiated agreements rather than trial, but preparation for litigation is often part of the strategy.

Settlement Agreement

A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract resolving a dispute without going to trial. In pedestrian accident cases, the injured person and the insurance company or opposing party may agree to a specific payment amount in exchange for releasing further claims related to the accident. Before signing, it is important to review the terms carefully. Once finalized, a settlement typically prevents the injured person from seeking additional compensation, even if future medical complications arise. These agreements often include confidentiality clauses or other provisions that affect future legal rights. Evaluating medical stability and projected long-term costs is often a key consideration before accepting a final settlement offer.

Burden Of Proof

The burden of proof refers to the legal requirement that the injured party must present sufficient evidence to show that the other party is responsible for the accident. In civil cases, this standard is typically “a preponderance of the evidence,” meaning it is more likely than not that the claim is true. This standard is lower than the one used in criminal cases, but it still requires credible documentation and persuasive evidence. Photographs from the accident scene, medical evaluations, expert testimony, and witness accounts can all support meeting this requirement. If the injured party cannot meet this burden, compensation may be denied, even if injuries are significant.

Make Informed Decisions

Pedestrian accident cases often involve multiple legal concepts that influence how responsibility is determined and how compensation is calculated. From fault allocation to settlement negotiations, each term reflects a specific part of the civil claim process. Having a working understanding of this terminology can make discussions with our Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer, insurance representatives, and courts more productive. When injuries are serious, clarity about these legal principles can help individuals better evaluate their options and make informed decisions about the path forward. Contact us today at Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation to learn more.

Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

728 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

Contact Our Indianapolis Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

We understand the intricacies of pedestrian accident cases and the challenges victims face. Our dedicated team of attorneys works vigorously to protect the rights of those injured due to the negligence of others. We provide compassionate guidance and aggressive representation, ensuring our clients receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.

A pedestrian accident can lead to life-changing consequences for victims and their families. Our office is ready to assist those affected, providing comprehensive legal support and advocacy. By addressing the common causes of pedestrian accidents and promoting safety measures, we strive to create a safer environment for pedestrians in our community. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced legal team for a free consultation. Your rights matter, and we are here to advocate for them.

Recovering from a pedestrian accident in Indianapolis can be a challenging journey, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping victims seek the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. Our experienced attorneys are committed to providing top-notch legal representation and support throughout the entire process. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to contact our Indianapolis pedestrian accident lawyer for a free consultation to explore your legal options and protect your rights.