Willow Grove Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Were you struck by a car while crossing the street in Willow Grove? Did a reckless driver leave you injured and struggling to navigate the aftermath? If you or a loved one has been in a pedestrian accident, you need an experienced attorney by your side. You may be wondering where to find a pedestrian accident attorney near me. Look no further—we have you covered.
Get Back on Your Feet with your Preferred Pedestrian Attorney – Rosen Justice
At Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers, our compassionate Personal Injury lawyers are here to fight for the justice you deserve. We understand the difficulties caused by pedestrian accidents and are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve to aid in your recovery. Our team holds negligent parties accountable to ensure our clients receive the financial support they need during this difficult time. Learn more about the average payout for a pedestrian accident hit by a car in Philadelphia.
The Alarming Reality of Pedestrian Accidents in Pennslyvania
Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries and even fatalities throughout the state, even in idyllic Willow Grove. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) reported 3,211 pedestrian crashes in 2022, with more than 30% of crashes and fatalities occurring when pedestrians were crossing the street at an intersection, mid-block crossing, or driveway entrance.
Protecting Yourself After a Pedestrian Accident
Being struck by a car is a frightening experience. Here’s how to protect yourself after a pedestrian accident in Pennsylvania:
- Prioritize your health. Get immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like concussions, might not be readily apparent. Seeking medical treatment immediately can help establish a record of your injuries for potential legal claims.
- Document the scene. If possible, capture photos of your injuries, the vehicle damage, and the accident location. Also, obtain witness contact information. This evidence is crucial for your case.
- Report the accident. File a police report and obtain a copy. It provides an official record of the accident. Contact your insurance company, if applicable, to report the accident as soon as possible.
- Get legal advice. Contact a Willow Grove pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled attorney can protect your rights and maximize your chances of fair compensation.
Taking these proactive steps can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Remember, time is of the essence in these situations, so don’t delay in seeking the necessary support and guidance.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Laws in Pennsylvania
Drivers’ Responsibilities
Pennsylvania law prioritizes pedestrian safety. The Pennsylvania Vehicle Code mandates that drivers lawfully yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or at intersections without marked crosswalks. This duty extends beyond simply stopping. Drivers must safely stop and allow pedestrians to cross the entire roadway before proceeding.
Other key requirements include:
- Right-of-way. Pedestrians have legal precedence in crosswalks (§ 3541(a)).
- Duty of care. Drivers are legally obligated to exercise due care to avoid foreseeable collisions with pedestrians.
- School zones. Increased penalties apply for accidents in school zones and high pedestrian areas.
Disregarding pedestrian right-of-way or failing to act cautiously can result in serious repercussions.
Drivers who violate these provisions face traffic citations, points on their licenses, and potential insurance premium hikes. Additionally, they may be held civilly liable for any injuries or damages sustained by pedestrians in resulting accidents.
Pedestrian Rights and Duties
Pennsylvania’s Vehicle Code also outlines the rights and responsibilities of pedestrians. Here are some critical points to remember:
- Predictable movements—pedestrians should avoid erratic behavior that could surprise drivers.
- Crosswalk safety—while pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks, they must still be cautious and visible to drivers.
- Looking both ways—this simple yet crucial step can prevent many accidents.
- Obeying traffic signals—pedestrians, like drivers, must comply with traffic lights and signs.
- Sidewalk Usage—when sidewalks are available, pedestrians must use them instead of walking on the roadway.
The law requires pedestrians to use designated crosswalks when available and prohibits jaywalking or crossing the street illegally outside a crosswalk.
These rules promote order and predictability on roadways, ultimately enhancing safety for pedestrians and drivers by reducing the risk of accidents and improving traffic flow.
Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Pennsylvania: Time Is of the Essence
Pennsylvania law imposes a strict two-year deadline, known as the statute of limitations, to file a personal injury lawsuit for a pedestrian accident. Missing this deadline can permanently prevent you from filing a claim.
Consulting one of our pedestrian accident attorneys as soon as possible after the accident ensures you meet all deadlines and don’t forfeit your right to compensation.
Building a Strong Case with Evidence
The more comprehensive the evidence you gather, the stronger your case becomes. Here’s what can significantly bolster your claim:
- Detailed accident scene photos—capture the scene layout, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries (if possible);
- Traffic or dash cam footage—this footage can provide an invaluable objective perspective of the accident;
- Witness statements—statements from bystanders who saw the accident can corroborate your version of events;
- Medical records—detailed medical records document the extent of your injuries, treatment received, and associated costs; and
- Police reports— an official record of the accident details and witness statements.
Gathering this evidence strengthens your position when negotiating a fair settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company or presenting your case at trial.
Types of Compensation You Can Receive After a Pedestrian Accident
The severity of your injuries determines the compensation you may receive. Here’s a breakdown of recoverable damages:
- Comprehensive medical care. This includes past, present, and future medical bills associated with your injuries, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, and medication.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity. If your injuries prevent you from working or limit your ability to earn a living, you can seek compensation for lost wages and future income loss.
- Pain and suffering. You deserve compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident, including scarring, disability, emotional distress, and PTSD.
- Property damage. Reimbursement is available for any damaged personal belongings, such as clothing, glasses, or electronics, lost or destroyed in the accident.
In cases of extreme misconduct, such as intentional harm or blatant disregard for safety, you may receive punitive damages intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.
No Cap on Damages in Pennsylvania
Unlike some states, Pennsylvania allows for unlimited compensation in personal injury cases, meaning you can potentially recover the full amount of your losses and not be limited by a pre-determined cap. Our skilled attorneys will work diligently to ensure your damages are accurately documented and valued to maximize your financial recovery.
Willow Grove Pedestrian Accident Lawyers with Local Expertise and Proven Results
When navigating a pedestrian accident claim in Willow Grove, having legal representation you can trust is critical. At Rosen Justice Injury Lawyers, we’re not just pedestrian accident lawyers — we’re members of the Willow Grove community. We understand the unique challenges pedestrians face in our bustling town, from busy intersections to distracted drivers. We’re committed to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and understanding.
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases specific to Willow Grove. We’ve built a strong track record of success, securing fair compensation for our clients.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you receive the justice and resources you deserve to heal and move forward.