Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Injured While Walking or Jogging?

One might think that being on foot is the equivalent of being safe. This is not the case. In fact, it is said that 13% of all accidents involve pedestrians. Pedestrian accidents are especially dangerous as the victim has little to no protection against the offending automobile. When you come into contact with a car, truck, van, or another motor vehicle, the consequences can be devastating and even deadly. Reach out to our Phoenix Pedestrian Accident Lawyers if you have been the victim of an accident while walking or running.

At the Law Offices of Joel W. Black, LLC, we have over 50 years of combined experience advocating for those injured in Phoenix and surrounding areas.

Injuries Common to Pedestrian Accidents

For obvious reasons, the pedestrian in a pedestrian v. automobile accident is most likely going to come out on the losing end. Vehicles are thousands of pounds and can move at frightening speeds. When they come into contact with an unprotected walker, jogger, or even bicyclist, the effects are catastrophic. Some common injuries include:

  • Head trauma: When an accident includes an impact to the head, traumatic brain injuries can occur. Even minor head injuries must be treated with extreme care.
  • Internal injuries: Internal bleeding from bones breaking and puncturing organs within the body are very serious injuries.
  • Pelvic injuries: Pedestrians that are struck by a motor vehicle may suffer from a stable or unstable pelvic fracture. The hip-to-hood ratio is a contributing factor.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Accidents that affect the spinal cord can be life-changing. Permanent nerve damage and paralysis can mean a lifetime of specialized care.
  • Bone fractures: Broken bones are among the most typical injuries in pedestrian/auto accidents. While some are simple fractures, others are more complicated with far-reaching physical effects. Orthopedic surgery and physical therapy are common after-accident medical care.
  • Lacerations: Depending on the location of the laceration and how deep it is, lacerations can have painful and lasting effects on a pedestrian accident victim.
  • Death: Obviously the most severe outcome, pedestrians struck by a motor vehicle may, unfortunately, lose their life. In these tragic cases, the surviving members of a person who has passed away can bring about a wrongful death case.

For other statistics relating to pedestrian accidents or tips on preventing injury, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Center for Diseases Control & Prevention websites.

Ways To Stay Safe

Always use crosswalks if present. If you must walk in the road, walk on the shoulder, facing traffic. If possible, make eye contact with the drivers around you.

Be cautious at intersections at all times. Drivers may not see or may fail to yield to pedestrians when turning. Pedestrians by nature are smaller and less easily seen than larger objects. You may also be in a vehicle’s blind spot.

Do not give in to the distraction of your phone. Texting or checking Social Media takes your attention away from your surroundings and potential hazards. It is a growing factor in pedestrian-related incidents.

If walking at night, carry a flashlight and/or wear reflective clothing. This is critical and can literally mean the difference between a safe and successful walk and tragedy. It is reported that 30% of all pedestrian fatalities occur between the evening hours of 8:00 pm and Midnight.

Getting Help After Your Pedestrian Accident

You may feel alone, confused, and not know which way to turn. Many questions will arise after an accident. It is important to remember that you have the legal right to seek compensation after someone’s careless or negligent act has caused you harm in an accident. Having skilled Phoenix Personal Injury Attorneys like the team at the Law Offices of Joel W. Black, LLC can help to maximize the settlement, jury verdict or court award to which you are entitled.

Contact Our Attorneys Today

This can be a difficult time in your life. There is nothing more important than for you to recover and get your life back on track. Your family may depend on you to earn your household’s sustaining income. Our team is here to help. We offer free confidential consultations. We will let you know if you have a case and how to get started. Let us be the advocate in your corner. Call us today at (602) 277-1393 or fill out our online request form.