When you’re out and about on foot, you’re that much more vulnerable to the impact of a traffic accident. Pedestrians are often harmed as a result of driver negligence, and seeking the money damages to which you are entitled is critical to your ability to regain your health and well-being. Reach out for the skilled legal guidance of an experienced Buffalo pedestrian accident attorney today.
When Pedestrians Have the Right of Way
As a pedestrian, you are always safest when you walk on a sidewalk, and in New York, you’re required to do so whenever one is available to you. Pedestrians face the most risk when they cross streets, which should always happen at crosswalks. It’s important to note, however, that a crosswalk needn’t be marked to qualify. Crossing from one curb at an intersection to the curb on the opposite side of the road amounts to crossing at a crosswalk, and the same is true when there is no curb. Points to keep in mind include:
- When there are pedestrian signals, pedestrians are required to follow them.
- When there are traffic lights but no pedestrian signals, pedestrians must wait until the traffic they’re crossing has a red light.
- When there are neither traffic lights nor pedestrian signals, pedestrians have the right of way.
Motorists Must Exercise Utmost Care
Drivers take on the immense responsibility of sharing the road safely with everyone on it, and this includes pedestrians. Motorists who engage in dangerous forms of negligence like the following significantly increase the risk that pedestrians face:
- Failure to follow the rules of the road
- Failure to yield the right of way according to the law
- Distraction
- Exhaustion
- Excess speed
- Impairment
- Aggression
Serious Injuries
The immense impact pedestrians sustain in traffic accidents often leads to serious injuries that translate to overwhelming losses. Common examples include:
- Broken bones
- Limb loss and injuries that require amputation
- Spinal cord injuries, including permanent paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal injuries
- Serious cuts and burns
- Permanent disfigurement
- Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
FAQs
How much compensation can I expect?
With a seasoned pedestrian accident attorney in your corner, you can expect to obtain a settlement that fairly covers your complete losses in the following primary categories:
- Your medical bills – both current and ongoing
- Your lost income, including lost earning potential
- Your physical and emotional pain and suffering
How do I know if I need an attorney?
If a negligent driver leaves you injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s always in your best interest to have a trusted attorney on your side.
How long should I wait to call an attorney?
The sooner you reach out for professional legal counsel, the stronger your claim is likely to be, which improves your chances of obtaining fair compensation.
Turn to an Experienced Buffalo Pedestrian Accident Attorney for the Help You Need
The knowledgeable Buffalo pedestrian accident attorneys at Steve Foley Law Firm dedicate our well-respected practice to zealously advocating for the rights and rightful compensation of clients like you. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 716-249-2222 today.