Pedestrian Accident Cases We Handle
Pedestrian accidents encompass a range of scenarios, from minor incidents to catastrophic events. At Turnbull Legal Group, we represent people who have been injured in all types of pedestrian accidents, including:
Crosswalk Accidents
We advocate for pedestrians who are struck by vehicles while legally crossing the street in designated crosswalks.
DUI Pedestrian Accidents
If you were hit by a drunk driver, we will fight aggressively to hold the responsible party accountable.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
We will conduct thorough investigations to pursue justice and locate drivers who flee the scene of an accident.
Distracted Driving Accidents
Our team has extensive experience representing pedestrians injured by drivers who were texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted.
Accidents Involving Bikes and Scooters
As the use of bikes and scooters increases in Houston, so do accidents involving pedestrians. We represent those injured in these increasingly common incidents.
Guiding You Through the Process: Our Legal Approach
When you choose Turnbull Legal Group to represent you after a Houston pedestrian accident, you can expect a comprehensive and dedicated approach that’s tailored to your specific needs. Our team is committed to transparency and open communication throughout the process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Free Consultation
We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, injuries, and legal options. - Thorough Investigation
Our team will thoroughly investigate the accident scene, gather witness statements, analyze photographs and videos, and consult with experts to build a strong case. - Evidence Gathering
This may include obtaining police reports, medical records, traffic camera footage, and more. - Effective Negotiation
We will handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf, striving for a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses. - Ready for Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced trial attorneys are fully prepared to litigate your case in court.
Throughout the entire process, we’ll be there every step of the way, providing compassionate support and legal guidance.
Common Risk Factors for Pedestrian Accidents in Houston
Houston has a high volume of foot traffic, unfortunately making pedestrian accidents a prevalent concern. While some accidents are unavoidable, there are several common risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of such incidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major contributor to pedestrian accidents in Houston. Drivers who are not paying full attention to the road are much more likely to fail to see pedestrians.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit, even by a little, can have devastating consequences in the event of a pedestrian accident. The higher a driver’s speed, the less time they have to react and avoid hitting someone.
Inadequate Lighting
Poor lighting creates hazardous conditions for both pedestrians and drivers, as it’s harder for them to see each other. This is particularly problematic in areas with limited street lighting and poorly lit crosswalks.
Poorly Maintained Roads and Sidewalks
Potholes, uneven surfaces, broken pavement, and debris create tripping hazards for pedestrians and can make it more difficult for them to walk safely. These hazards can also contribute to driver distraction and a lack of alertness, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Drunk Driving
Unfortunately, drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs continue to present a serious threat to pedestrians. These drivers are more likely to speed, lose control of their vehicles, and fail to react promptly in an emergency.
Blind Spots
Large vehicles often have significant blind spots. This means drivers may not see a pedestrian standing nearby, putting pedestrians at a heightened risk.
Increased Pedestrian Traffic
As Houston’s population grows and more people choose to walk, the number of pedestrians in urban areas increases. This means more potential for conflict between vehicles and pedestrians, particularly during rush hour and when traffic congestion is heavy.
Types of Injuries Common in Pedestrian Accidents
Here are common types of injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident:
- Head Injuries
Impacts to the head are common, often resulting in concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or skull fractures. - Fractures
Broken bones in the legs, arms, pelvis, and spine are very frequent in accidents. - Soft Tissue Injuries
Muscle strains, ligament tears, and sprains are common due to the impact or sudden movements. These injuries can lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. - Internal Injuries
Severe internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding, can occur — especially in high-impact accidents. - Spinal Cord Injuries
These injuries can lead to paralysis or significant neurological damage. - Psychological Injuries
Pedestrians can experience emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of a harrowing accident.
This is not an exhaustive list. The specific nature of your injuries depends on the severity of the accident and individual factors.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to different types of financial compensation that are designed to help you recover from your injuries and address the various impacts of the accident.
Medical Expenses
This category entails all past, present, and future medical costs related to your injuries. It may include hospitalizations, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy.
Lost Wages
This covers past and future wages you have lost due to your injuries and inability to work. This can include salary, wages, and bonuses.
Pain and Suffering
This category is designed to compensate for the physical and emotional distress, discomfort, and pain that you’ve endured due to the accident. This is a subjective category that takes into account the severity of your pain, the limitations caused by your injuries, and the psychological impacts thereof.
Loss of Consortium
If you have a spouse, they might be able to seek compensation for the loss of your companionship, support, and affection.
Property Damage
If your belongings were also damaged in the accident, you may be able to claim compensation for those losses.
Fatal Pedestrian Accidents in Houston: Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
The loss of a loved one in a pedestrian accident is a devastating experience. While nothing can truly make up for their absence, a wrongful death claim can provide some measure of financial stability and justice for surviving family members.
In Texas, a wrongful death claim can be filed by a deceased person’s surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings. They may seek compensation for:
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of income (past and future)
- Loss of companionship and support
- Medical bills
- Loss of household services (if the victim provided valuable services around the home)
Texas law requires that wrongful death claims be filed within two years of the person’s death. It is crucial to consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and deadlines are met.
What If the Pedestrian Is Partially at Fault for the Accident?
The driver is often presumed to be at fault in a pedestrian accident, but there are situations in which a pedestrian could share responsibility, such as:
- Crossing Against a Red Light
Even if vehicles are supposed to yield to foot traffic, pedestrians must still follow traffic laws. If a pedestrian walks across the street against a red light and is hit, they might share liability for the accident. - Jaywalking
Crossing outside designated crosswalks is illegal. It creates a high-risk situation that can make the pedestrian partially responsible for a crash. - Walking Without Paying Attention
Stepping into traffic or walking without looking can be considered negligence if a pedestrian does not act with care for their safety. - Running or Making Sudden Movements
Sudden movements can startle a driver and make it impossible for them to avoid an accident. - Walking in a Drunken or Intoxicated State
An intoxicated pedestrian might not act with caution, increasing the possibility of injury and contributing to shared fault.
If the pedestrian shares fault for the accident, they can still be eligible for compensation as long as they are not found to be 51% responsible (or greater). However, their award would be reduced proportionally. For example, if a pedestrian is 25% at fault for an accident, they would receive 75% of the full compensation amount.
To mitigate their losses, the driver’s insurance company will attempt to prove that you were predominantly at fault for the accident. Don’t let their strategies rob you of what is rightfully yours — contact Turnbull Legal Group today to build a strong case and pursue justice.
What to Do After Being Hit
After a pedestrian accident, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next, but it’s essential to act quickly and effectively to protect your health, your rights, and your future. Here are critical steps to take:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation immediately. - Call the Police
Report the accident to the police. This is essential to ensure the incident is documented and create an official record. - Gather Evidence
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the road conditions, the damaged vehicle, any injuries you sustain, and any contributing factors. - Get Witness Information
Get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. They may be able to provide valuable firsthand accounts. - Document Everything
Keep track of any details about the accident, including dates and times, names and contact information, injury details, and any expenses you incur. - Contact an Experienced Attorney
Don't try to handle this situation alone. It's vital to seek the advice of an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.
Following these steps helps safeguard your rights and increase your chances of obtaining a fair and successful outcome in your case.
Don’t Let Financial Burdens Hold You Back: No Fee Unless We Win
A pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, leaving you with medical bills, lost wages, and pain. But financial concerns shouldn’t stop you from seeking the legal representation you deserve. At Turnbull Legal Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay us if we win your case.
