Crossing the street to say hello to a neighbor or walking across the mall parking garage to get to your car should not be dangerous. Unfortunately, cars hit pedestrians frequently. Many of these collisions result in serious injury or death.

If a motor vehicle struck you while you were on foot, you need to work with a skilled Marshfield pedestrian accident lawyer. You might be eligible to recover money for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering through a civil claim. A dedicated personal injury attorney can assess your case and help you understand your legal options.

What Usually Causes Pedestrian Accidents?

Many different factors can contribute to a car striking a pedestrian, including:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Drunk driving
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Turning at an intersection without checking to see if a pedestrian is about to cross
  • Failing to yield
  • Backing up without looking
  • Swerving around a car that has stopped to let a pedestrian cross

Although pedestrians can be more challenging for motorists to see than other cars, that is not an excuse for negligent driving. Drivers should keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel to react quickly.

A hardworking attorney in Marshfield can investigate a pedestrian crash and look for evidence proving a driver’s blame.

What Happens When a Pedestrian is Partly to Blame?

Sometimes, a motorist is not the only person responsible for a pedestrian accident. People on foot should follow certain rules to stay safe. For example, when an individual crosses a busy street, they should pay attention to approaching vehicles. When there is no sidewalk, people should remain on the left side. Pedestrians also should yield to traffic when crossing a road outside an intersection or crosswalk. Finally, pedestrians need to ensure that they are not walking or crossing streets while distracted by their cell phone.

Comparative Fault Explained

If a pedestrian does decide to ignore oncoming cars or walk while distracted, state law might hold them accountable for their actions. For instance, if a pedestrian contributes to an accident, a Wisconsin jury will typically assign them a percentage of the fault. This would impact the financial compensation they collect through their civil claim.

A pedestrian could still collect damages if a jury determines that a pedestrian was not more to blame than a negligent defendant. A court would reduce their compensation in proportion to their percentage of the blame.

An experienced lawyer in Marshfield could help an injured pedestrian keep their case on track and prove that they are not responsible for the accident in question.

Get in Touch with a Marshfield Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Getting hit by a car is one of the most dangerous types of accidents. These collisions can permanently change the lives of claimants and their families. Many pedestrian collisions even lead to a wrongful death.

You deserve skilled assistance if a car struck you or your loved one. A practiced Marshfield pedestrian accident lawyer has your best interests in mind. Our legal team can negotiate for the best possible compensation and case outcome. Call today to discuss your case.

Contact a Wausau Personal Injury Attorney Today

If you are recovering from an injury, you need to focus on regaining your health. You should not have to negotiate with stubborn insurance companies or compromise with a defendant.

A Wausau personal injury lawyer could lessen the stress and complications associated with collecting compensation, allowing you to recover fully. Call today to learn more about your options.

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