Pedestrian accidents can occur when victims least expect them. The Texas Department of Transportation reported 5,366 accidents involving pedestrians in the state, 841 of which resulted in fatalities. Poorly maintained sidewalks and crosswalks, commuter rail, distracted drivers, and more could pose a threat to those who travel by foot. Because pedestrians are more likely to sustain serious injuries as a result of a collision, the results are often life-changing. With mounting medical bills and lost wages, victims often find themselves unable to cope with the financial strain. Fortunately, Houston pedestrian accident lawyers at Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys can help those injured in pedestrian accidents get the compensation they deserve. Victims can book a free consultation to talk to an attorney to learn more about their legal options.
Over $1 Billion Recovered
“When you get hurt, you need someone on your side who understands how things work here.”
What Our Clients Have To Say
I have worked with Schuerger Shunnarah twice and they have been very helpful on my personal injury cases. They went above and beyond my expectations and did a great job both times.
- Ashley C.
Schuerger Shunnarah helped me receive a settlement on my case in just months. I was treated with respect and dignity. Thanks to their help, I have been able to get my life back to normal.
- Michael S.
They provided me with excellent service throughout my personal injury case. They were available to answer my questions and helped me understand the process. I am very grateful for them!
- Deshawn B.
Why Choose Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys?
Every day, people in Houston go for walks, yet it only takes one careless driver to cause a crash that results in injuries to pedestrians. Even though injured pedestrians are entitled to financial compensation, the process can be challenging. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys in Houston, TX, can fight for their legal rights!
With so many pedestrian accident attorneys in Houston, it's easy for victims to feel overwhelmed. However, choosing the right team of Houston pedestrian accident attorneys is paramount to the success of any legal claim.
Here are a few reasons why Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is the right team to handle cases involving pedestrian accident injuries:
-
Victims get a free consultation to discuss the specific details of their cases.
-
Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that clients do not pay legal fees unless the law firm is able to secure a settlement.
-
The team has a stellar reputation and an excellent track record, having secured millions of dollars for clients.
-
Houston pedestrian accident lawyers will take care of every aspect of the case, allowing injured victims to focus on their recovery.
To book a free case review with a reputable team of pedestrian accident lawyers, claimants are encouraged to get in touch with Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys in Houston.
What Qualifies as a Pedestrian Accident Case?
There is a significant risk of serious injury or death for pedestrians hit by trucks or passenger vehicles. Most of the time, those walking on the side of the road or crossing have the right of way. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that both the motorist and the pedestrian have a duty to exercise caution around one another.
Pedestrian Responsibilities
Pedestrian obligations consist of the following:
-
Walking across roadways using crosswalks
-
Not rushing into the road to stop traffic
-
Making use of the walk signal when crossing the street
Driver Obligations
All drivers in Houston are required to abide by the following rules concerning pedestrians:
-
Use signals when making turns
-
Comply with speed restrictions
-
Allow pedestrians right of way at crossings
-
Be vigilant of road conditions
Where Children Are Involved
When children are seen trying to cross the street, drivers have a great responsibility to ensure their safety. This is because their actions are much harder to predict, which is why drivers must be extra cautious.
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can help victims find out whether the accident occurred as a result of their negligence or the carelessness of the driver to determine whether they have grounds for a lawsuit.
Calculating Damages in a Pedestrian Accident Case
Accidents involving pedestrians are often fairly complex. Every personal injury claim is different and is based on the specific details of the case. In general, victims often obtain the following damages in claims involving pedestrians:
-
Medical expenses (past and future)
-
Lost wages (past and future)
-
Property damage
-
Pain and suffering
-
Mental anguish
In some cases, the court may award victims punitive damages, which are meant to punish a perpetrator financially for an illegal act that resulted in injuries. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can review the case and help those injured calculate their damages based on the unique details of their case.
Houston slip and fall attorneys
Houston premises liability law firm
Houston product liability law office
dog bite lawyer in Houston
nursing home abuse lawyers in Houston
mesothelioma attorney in Houston
oil rig accident attorneys in Houston
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are several reasons why pedestrian collisions occur in Houston.
Failure to Yield Right of Way
When drivers fail to give pedestrians the right of way at crosswalks, accidents often occur. This also includes turning without signaling.
Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted includes sending texts, making phone calls, eating, or simply not paying attention to the surroundings. Accidents can happen as a result of any activity that requires the negligent driver to take their focus off the roadway, their hands off the steering wheel, or their eyes off the road.
Speeding
Failing to obey the rules of the road with regard to speeding can lower the reaction time a driver has when he or she encounters a pedestrian. This can result in a collision.
Driving While Intoxicated
Negligent drivers that operate motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics also cause auto-pedestrian accidents.
Whatever the reason for the accident, a Houston pedestrian accident lawyer will fight for the victim's rights to ensure they obtain justice.
Common Injuries Sustained in Auto-pedestrian Accidents
The truth is that accidents involving pedestrians often involve life-changing or fatal injuries. Because they have nothing to protect them from the impact, pedestrians struck by a car or truck can be thrown several feet away or crushed under the weight of a vehicle.
Here are some of the injuries that are common in these accidents:
-
Spinal cord injuries
-
Traumatic brain injuries
-
Broken bones
-
Amputations
-
Scarring and disfigurement
-
Musculoskeletal injuries
-
Chest and abdominal injuries
Individuals injured because of a negligent or careless driver have the right to hold them accountable for their damages. A Houston pedestrian accident lawyer will stand with victims and help those injured by filing a pedestrian accident lawsuit.
Client Testimonial
They were polite and really cared throughout the entire process and made me feel like my case was important. I would highly recommend them to anyone that didn’t get a fair offer from the insurance company like me!
- Brian D.
When a Pedestrian Accident Leads to Wrongful Death
In many cases, the outcome of a car accident involving pedestrians does not have a happy ending. When distracted driving or failing to yield the right of way leads to auto-pedestrian accidents, many do not make it out alive.
Although pursuing financial compensation will never replace what surviving family members lost, it can provide much-needed financial relief as the family comes to terms with what has happened.
A trusted attorney can assist family members in pursuing restitution to hold the at-fault party or parties liable for their damages.
How a Houston Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Help
A pedestrian accident lawyer can assist victims in a number of ways. From providing the support they need to conduct thorough investigations, attorneys do much more than just fight cases in court.
Providing Expert Legal Advice
The first step in the legal process is to reach out to a Houston pedestrian accident lawyer for legal counsel. At a free consultation, pedestrian accident victims can discuss the elements of the case and find out whether they have grounds for a lawsuit.
An attorney will also help clients calculate their damages, accounting for past and future expenses to ensure they get the maximum compensation.
Dealing with the Insurance Company
The last thing an injured pedestrian wants to do while recovering from their injuries is to deal with an insurance company. An insurer shouldn't make victims go all out to get paid for an injury their policyholder was at fault for.
It's important for victims to consult a Houston pedestrian accident attorney before engaging in disputes with insurance providers. An attorney can ensure their rights are protected and negotiate a fair settlement, allowing them the time they need to recover.
Investigating the Case
A pedestrian accident attorney will also conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify key evidence and ensure that there is enough proof to back up their client's claim. Bringing in expert witnesses and professional accident reconstruction specialists and gathering surveillance are just some of the ways a lawyer can assist.
Taking the Claim to Court
In some cases, both parties may not agree, and when this happens, the plaintiff will need a reliable car accident specialist to take the case to court. A personal injury attorney will provide rigorous legal representation, presenting evidence to support their client's claims.
Can a Pedestrian Be Responsible for a Car Accident?
Although it is commonly believed that pedestrians always have the right-of-way, this is untrue. As already stated, when pedestrians disobey traffic laws or fail to surrender to vehicles' rights of way, they may be wholly or partially responsible for a car collision.
If a pedestrian is found to be at fault, they might be held responsible for the vehicle's damage and any injuries it causes the driver.
Get in Touch with Houston Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
The truth is that pedestrian accidents often cause serious injuries, and victims can be left to pick up the pieces of their lives. Because these collisions often leave pedestrians unable to work, pursuing compensation is essential.
Fortunately, they can find reliable legal counsel and aggressive legal representation at Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys in Houston, TX. No matter how serious the pedestrian accident injuries or how prominent the at-fault party is, clients can turn to the team for the support and legal aid they need.
To learn more or book a free case review with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Houston, victims can call (833) 692-5038 or fill out the no-obligation contact form.