Grapevine, Texas Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Being struck by a vehicle is one of the most devastating ways a person can be injured on the road. Pedestrians have no physical protection from the force of impact by a vehicle, and even a low-speed collision can result in catastrophic harm. In areas with busy intersections, crosswalks, and parking lots that experience frequent foot traffic, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common. When a driver's carelessness causes a pedestrian to suffer serious injuries, the victim can take steps to obtain compensation for the harm they have endured.

At Jerry D. Andrews, P.C., our attorney helps injured pedestrians navigate the complex legal process following a traffic-related injury. He advocates for people who have been hurt due to negligence. Through strategic and persistent representation, he works to ensure that victims will be able to recover compensation that reflects both the short- and long-term impact of pedestrian accidents.

The Immediate and Long-Term Effects of a Pedestrian Accident

When a person is struck by a moving vehicle, their body absorbs the full force of the impact. This can result in serious, life-threatening injuries. Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians are completely unprotected. There are no seat belts, airbags, or steel frames to lessen the blow. As a result, pedestrians may suffer injuries that can affect their ability to live and work independently, including:

• Broken Bones: A person's arms, legs, collarbones, hips, or ribs may be fractured in a collision with a vehicle. Serious fractures may require surgery, immobilization, and extensive rehabilitation before a person can regain full function.
• Spinal Injuries: Damage affecting the back and injuries that pinch, compress, or sever the spinal cord can be devastating, leading to severe pain, loss of mobility, loss of sensation, or even complete paralysis.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a vehicle with a person's body may lead to internal bleeding or damage affecting bodily systems such as the heart, lungs, spleen, liver, kidneys, or intestines.
• Brain Injuries: A blow to the head can lead to injuries ranging from a concussion to severe brain trauma. These injuries can potentially cause memory loss, cognitive impairments, sensory disorders, seizures, mood disorders, and other long-lasting symptoms.
• Lacerations and Abrasions: Deep cuts and road rash can lead to infections, scarring, and long-lasting pain.
• Psychological Trauma: Many survivors of pedestrian accidents experience anxiety, depression, or other emotional issues due to the trauma of being struck.

Serious injuries may prevent a victim from returning to work, fulfilling family obligations, or participating in activities they once enjoyed. In some cases, the effects may be permanent, requiring ongoing therapy, home modifications, and personal assistance. The financial burdens that can come with medical expenses and loss of income can be overwhelming.

Forms of Driver Negligence That May Lead to Pedestrian Collisions

Most pedestrian accidents are preventable. They occur when drivers fail to pay attention, do not follow traffic laws, or do not exercise caution around people on foot. Negligence that can lead to pedestrian crashes may include:

• Failure to Yield at Crosswalks: Drivers are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Ignoring this rule is a frequent cause of injuries to pedestrians.
• Speeding: A driver who is exceeding the speed limit may be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Speeding can be particularly dangerous in school zones, residential neighborhoods, and other pedestrian-heavy areas.
• Distracted Driving: The use of cell phones, navigation systems, or other devices can cause drivers to miss pedestrians who are crossing the street or walking along the shoulder. Other distractions, such as eating, grooming, or engaging with passengers, can also put pedestrians at risk.
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving: Intoxicated drivers are less likely to notice pedestrians. They may be unable to react appropriately to sudden movements of people who cross the road, or they may disobey traffic signals or take other unsafe actions that could lead to pedestrian accidents.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Intersections can be dangerous for pedestrians. A driver who ignores traffic control devices may strike someone who is crossing the street.
• Backing Up Unsafely: When pulling out of a space in a parking lot or backing out of a driveway, a person may fail to make sure the area behind them is clear, and they may strike a pedestrian who is walking behind them.

In many pedestrian accidents, a driver may attempt to blame the victim, suggesting that the pedestrian crossed the street while disobeying a traffic signal or entered traffic unexpectedly. Our lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine exactly what happened and to prove that the driver's negligence caused the crash rather than the pedestrian's behavior.