Passaic County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When pedestrians are involved in accidents with motorists, they are often severely, sometimes permanently, injured. Because pedestrian accidents are so devastating, it’s imperative for anyone harmed as a pedestrian due to the negligence of another to retain the services of a skilled attorney who can fight for the maximum compensation on their behalf. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled Passaic County personal injury lawyer from the Law Offices of August R. Soltis for a free case evaluation today.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents occur for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from driver negligence. When motorists fail to exercise proper caution, pedestrians—who have little to no protection—can suffer severe injuries. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, using GPS, or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks, intersections, or along roadways.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of impact in the event of a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers fail to yield at crosswalks, intersections, or while making turns, even when pedestrians have the right-of-way.
• Running Red Lights & Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals or stop signs can lead to devastating accidents, particularly at intersections where pedestrians are crossing legally.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to stay alert, increasing the likelihood of striking a pedestrian.
• Poor Visibility & Low Lighting Conditions: Accidents are more common at night or in bad weather when drivers fail to use their headlights properly or fail to watch for pedestrians.
• Backing-Up Accidents: Drivers pulling out of driveways, parking spots, or alleys without properly checking their surroundings can strike pedestrians who are walking behind their vehicles.
• Aggressive or Reckless Driving: Drivers who engage in tailgating, weaving between lanes, or failing to follow road rules create dangerous conditions that put pedestrians at serious risk.
• Improperly Designed Crosswalks or Intersections: In some cases, pedestrian accidents result from poorly marked crosswalks, defective traffic signals, or other roadway design issues.
• Drowsy Driving: Fatigued drivers are less alert and may not see pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.

No matter the cause, if you were struck by a negligent driver, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your health, safety, and ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even if your injuries don’t seem severe at first, getting checked by a medical professional is critical. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Call 911 & Report the Accident: Law enforcement will document the scene and create an official accident report, which can serve as crucial evidence in your claim.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene: If possible, take photos of your injuries, the vehicle that hit you, the accident location, traffic signals, crosswalks, and any other relevant details.
4. Obtain Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, get their contact details. Their statements may help support your version of events.
5. Exchange Information with the Driver: Collect the driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.
6. Avoid Admitting Fault or Giving Statements: Be careful not to apologize or make any statements that could be misinterpreted as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police.
7. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Adhering to your prescribed medical treatment is essential for your recovery and strengthens your claim for compensation.
8. Keep Records of Medical Bills & Lost Wages: Document all expenses related to your injuries, including medical treatment, rehabilitation costs, and any time missed from work.
9. Consult an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Before dealing with insurance companies, speak with a knowledgeable attorney who can protect your rights and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Recovering Financial Compensation

If you were injured as a pedestrian due to a driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the damages you’ve suffered. A skilled attorney can help you pursue compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical treatments related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages & Future Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from working temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and any reduction in your future earning potential.
• Pain & Suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident, including anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life.
• Rehabilitation & Therapy Costs: If you require physical therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological counseling due to your injuries, these costs may be included in your claim.
• Property Damage: If personal property (such as clothing, a phone, or a bicycle) was damaged in the accident, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, you may be compensated for the negative impact on your lifestyle.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident left you with a long-term or permanent injury, additional compensation may be available to account for your suffering and future medical needs.

Contact a New Jersey Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The Law Offices of August R. Soltis has been a steadfast legal advocate for those injured due to negligence in New Jersey for over 40 years, and we stand ready to fight for you, too. Contact a dedicated Passaic County pedestrian accident lawyer from our legal team today. Our consultations are free, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by simply reaching out.