Standing Up For Pedestrians Who Were Hit By Motor Vehicles
When a car hits a pedestrian, the lives of the victim and their family may be thrown into disarray. With severe injuries and, sometimes, lifelong changes in their quality of life, injured pedestrians may be left unable to work. If you were hit by a car while walking in Texas, the knowledgeable legal team at Wickes Law, PLLC, can help.
From an office in Plano, attorney Paul O. Wickes uses his three decades of personal injury experience to help the victims of car accidents. Mr. Wickes works closely with his personal injury clients to understand the full extent of their injuries, lost income and other incurred costs. Based on this close inspection of case facts, he will craft a personalized strategy for your case. Please schedule your free consultation now by calling 972-600-2416 to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer.
An Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer For Severe Injuries
The victims of a pedestrian accident involving a car or truck may lose or have issues with their digits and limbs. Additionally, a car accident can cause head, neck and spinal injuries that significantly affect cognitive abilities. Attorney Wickes will thoroughly document your injuries and use that information to your advantage when negotiating with insurance companies and negligent parties. He will work to estimate the total cost of your medical recovery and then craft a strategy that gets your fair compensation. If he cannot obtain your rightful compensation in negotiations, he will not hesitate to take your case to trial.
Helping Families Who Have Lost Loved Ones
The fatality rate of pedestrian accidents is, unfortunately, high. Attorney Wickes provides representation to families whose loved ones have been lost due to pedestrian accidents. He understands the terrible situation that you are facing, and his compassionate staff will work to make the process efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Pedestrian Accidents
A pedestrian accident typically leads to injury and financial stress and accidents in Texas can involve complicated fault standards that shape your claim. The answers to common questions that often surface after a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle can clarify your unique situation.
Are drivers always required to yield to pedestrians?
No. However, Texas requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks when no traffic signal controls the intersection. Drivers must stop when a pedestrian is already in the crosswalk or moving toward the driver’s lane in a manner that creates a hazard. Pedestrians may not suddenly step into a lane when a vehicle is too close to stop safely.
Drivers are not legally required to stop and yield when a pedestrian crosses outside a crosswalk.
Do I have a pedestrian accident claim if I was partially at fault?
Probably. Texas uses a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you may pursue compensation if you are 50% or less at fault for the accident. Your financial recovery will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Actions like jaywalking, crossing against a signal or entering traffic between parked vehicles can increase your share of fault.
You cannot recover any damages if you are found 51% or more at fault.
What should I say (and not say) to an insurance company after being hit by a vehicle?
Insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts by shifting blame. You should provide only basic facts such as the date, location, and vehicles involved. You should avoid discussing fault, describing your injuries in detail, or offering opinions about how the accident occurred. Insurers may use these statements to assign you a higher percentage of responsibility. You should decline recorded statements until you receive legal guidance.
What compensation can I recover after a pedestrian accident?
If you are 50 percent or less at fault, you may recover damages for medical costs, lost income and related losses, but remember, Texas law reduces your compensation by your percentage of fault. Evidence that a driver ignored a crosswalk, failed to yield or engaged in negligent conduct such as distracted driving or speeding can increase their share of liability. These findings can significantly strengthen your ability to recover damages.
If you have more questions, reach out to an attorney.
Schedule Your Free Consultation With A Plano Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Please contact the Plano office of Wickes Law, PLLC, to schedule your free consultation. Attorney Wickes will answer your questions and explain your next steps in this free meeting. Schedule your consultation by calling 972-600-2416 or via email and speak with a pedestrian accident injury lawyer.