Westminster, MD Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents can be dangerous and traumatic experiences. There are many causes of pedestrian accidents. When drivers cause pedestrian accidents through any form of negligent behavior, devastating injuries can occur. Furthermore, the more serious injuries in pedestrian accidents are suffered by pedestrians because they lack any form of protection from the crash’s impact.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident because of a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. However, you will likely have to deal with insurance companies and fight with defense lawyers in order to recover damages. The assistance of our Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers may ease your stress when pursuing a pedestrian accident claim.
If you were injured because of a pedestrian accident, seek assistance from our experienced Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 for a free case review.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Westminster, MD
Many pedestrian accidents are caused by driver negligence. Motorists are expected to exercise reasonable care and follow the rules of the road while driving. Accordingly, drivers may be liable for damages caused by their negligent behavior. The following are common forms of negligence that can cause pedestrian accidents in Westminster:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a common form of negligence that can result in pedestrian accidents. The three categories of distracted driving involve visual, manual, or cognitive distraction. Visual distraction occurs when a driver takes their eyes off the road while manual distraction refers to situations where a driver takes their hands off the wheel. Cognitive distraction occurs when a driver takes their mind of the task of driving.
Some forms of distracted driving can involve multiple types of distraction. For example, texting and driving incorporates all three categories of distraction. The following are examples of activities that would constitute distracted driving if committed by a driver during a pedestrian accident:
- Texting
- Eating
- Using a GPS
- Adjusting the radio or controls
Distracted drivers who cause pedestrian accidents will be liable for the damages they cause. If you suffered a pedestrian accident because of a distracted driver, our Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers can help build your case.
Speeding
Motorists operating their vehicles at excessive speeds are more likely to cause a pedestrian accident. It can be easy for drivers to lose track of their speed, but that does not excuse their traffic violations and dangerous driving. If you were hit by a speeding driver, their speed can be excellent evidence against them in a pedestrian accident lawsuit.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving impaired is another common form of negligent behavior that can cause pedestrian accidents. Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous for all parties involved. Drunk drivers will have slower reaction times and poor decision-making abilities.
Drunk drivers are often liable for any pedestrian accidents they cause. Our Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers can help gather evidence to prove a pedestrian accident was caused by intoxication and hold the drunk driver accountable.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is another form of negligent behavior that often causes pedestrian accidents in Westminster. Reckless driving refers to situations where drivers exhibit a disregard for safety and go above and beyond mere traffic violations. If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident because of a reckless driver, you may be able to recover damages related to the accident.
Disregarding Weather or Traffic Conditions
Drivers should take into consideration conditions like weather and traffic when driving. Motorists who drive at excessive speeds in conditions like rain or snow might be unable to see pedestrians or stop in time to avoid hitting someone. Accordingly, drivers can be liable for pedestrian accidents caused by their disregard for weather or traffic conditions.
Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents in Westminster, MD
In a pedestrian accident, motor vehicle occupants will typically be protected by the vehicle surrounding them. On the other hand, pedestrians have less protection and will often suffer serious injuries. Our Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers can help pedestrian accident victims seek compensation for any of the following injuries, and more:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Severe bruising
- Internal bleeding
- Head injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine injuries
Furthermore, pedestrian accident victims may also suffer various forms of emotional distress. If you suffered injuries because of a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for physical and psychological damages.
Types of Damages Available in Westminster, MD Pedestrian Accident Cases
There are multiple categories of damages available in a pedestrian accident lawsuit. The amount damages available to victims will depend on the severity of their injuries. If you suffered injuries because of a pedestrian accident in Westminster, you may recover any of the following damages:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damages
- Physical pain
- Emotional suffering
- Punitive damages
Some damages may be easier to prove than others. Our Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers can help gather evidence so you may recover the full extent of damages related to a pedestrian accident.
Time Limits for Filing a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Westminster, MD
Time limits for filing lawsuits are governed by the statute of limitations. In Maryland, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years. Pedestrian accident lawsuits are a form of personal injury case. Therefore, pedestrian accident victims will typically have three years from the date of their accident to file a claim. The time limit for filing a lawsuit may be extended under special circumstances.
However, the weight of relevant evidence may begin to decrease over time. Waiting to file a claim could cause you to miss out on compensation. If you suffered injuries because of a pedestrian accident, you should contact our experienced Westminster pedestrian accident lawyers as soon as possible to being building your case.
If You Were Injured Because of a Pedestrian Accident, Our Lawyers Can Help
If you suffered injuries because of a pedestrian accident, get help recovering the compensation you deserve by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 for a free case review.
