Fort Wayne Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrians should be able to feel safe walking on neighborhood roads, on city sidewalks, and in crosswalks at intersections. Yet pedestrians often sustain serious and deadly injuries in various kinds of accidents, from collisions with motor vehicles or bicyclists to accidents resulting from hazards on walkways. An Indiana pedestrian accident lawyer at our firm can help you to seek the compensation you deserve.
Getting the Facts About Pedestrian Accidents in Indiana
How do most pedestrian accidents happen, and how frequently do they occur? The following are some key facts and figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Nearly 6,000 pedestrians sustained fatal injuries in traffic collisions in 2017;
- On average, one pedestrian is killed every 88 minutes;
- Annually, about 137,000 pedestrians sustain nonfatal injuries that require treatment in emergency departments;
- Alcohol impairment is a leading cause of pedestrian accidents, and about 47% of all collisions involve alcohol use in some capacity;
- Pedestrian intoxication is responsible for about 33% of all pedestrian accidents;
- Older adults and young children are at greatest risk of serious injuries in pedestrian accidents, and pedestrians aged 65 and over account for about 20% of all pedestrian accident deaths;
- Urban areas are where the highest rate of pedestrian accidents occur; and
- Pedestrian distraction can play a role in collisions, including talking or texting on cell phones while walking.
Common Causes of Indiana Pedestrian Accidents and Injuries
There are many different causes of pedestrian accidents in Indiana, such as:
- Driver error, including speeding, distracted driving, and intoxicated driving;
- Pedestrian negligence, including intoxicated or distracted walking; or
- Hazards on the premises, such as a broken sidewalk or a tripping hazard.
Types of Pedestrian Injuries in Indiana
Injuries in pedestrian accidents can vary widely in terms of severity and type, depending upon how and where the accident occurs. Whether you sustain injuries that can be fully treated or permanently debilitating injuries, you could be eligible to file a claim against the at-fault party. Common types of pedestrian injuries include but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Bruises and contusions;
- Bone fractures;
- Lacerations, cuts, and scrapes;
- Amputations;
- Spinal cord injuries; and
- Psychological trauma.
Comparative Fault and Pedestrian Accident Claims in Indiana
What happens when a pedestrian is partially at fault for an accident? For example, if a pedestrian is distracted at the time of a collision yet the motorist is still largely at fault for the serious accident? Under Indiana’s modified comparative fault law, as long as a pedestrian is 50% or less at fault, the pedestrian can still recover damages, but the damages award will be reduced by the pedestrian’s portion of fault. If a pedestrian is 51% or more at fault, the pedestrian will be barred from recovery.
Seek Advice From an Indiana Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to seek advice from an experienced Indiana pedestrian accident attorney who can help you to file a claim for financial compensation. Do not hesitate to get in touch with our firm to find out more about how we can assist you with your claim. Contact The Bellinger Law Office to learn more about the personal injury cases we handle in Indiana.
