Pedestrian accidents injure and kill many people annually. If you are a runner, a dog walker, a college student without transportation, or if you use a wheelchair on the local roads, you could become a victim of a serious collision.

However, reckless drivers should be held accountable for their negligence. If you were injured in a crash while on foot, seek advice from a Stevens Point pedestrian accident lawyer about holding the responsible parties accountable. A hardworking personal injury attorney could pursue compensation for your losses and help you get back on your feet.

Careless Drivers Cause Many Pedestrian Accidents

Drivers must use caution when driving around walkers and joggers. Even if the street has a sidewalk, many people, including children, travel on the road.

Unfortunately, not every motorist s as attentive as they should be. For example, drivers often hit pedestrians because they speed and cannot stop quickly enough to avoid a person on the road. Additionally, drivers sometimes speed or turn in intersections without checking for people on foot. In some cases, motorists might be so focused on the road ahead that they do not see a pedestrian on the shoulder. Often, drivers violate the law by texting or driving drunk, causing pedestrian collisions.

An experienced attorney in Stevens Point could review a police report and relevant evidence to determine whether a driver’s careless behavior caused a pedestrian accident.

What are a Pedestrian’s Responsibilities?

Although drivers must yield to anyone traveling on foot, pedestrians must also be cautious when sharing the roads with motor vehicles. To avoid incidents, walkers and joggers should wear bright colors or reflective gear and stay on the shoulder of the road as best as possible.

Several laws govern pedestrian conduct on the roads. For example, pedestrians must use sidewalks when available. However, if these individuals have to walk on the street, Wisconsin Statute §346.28 requires them to walk facing oncoming traffic and stay as far to the left as possible. Likewise, walkers and joggers must use crosswalks and obey traffic signals. When a crosswalk is unavailable, pedestrians must look both ways before crossing and avoid entering oncoming traffic.

A pedestrian who does not follow the law or take basic precautions could be partially at fault if a car hits them. While the state’s comparative negligence law allows a plaintiff who shares responsibility for an accident to claim partial damages, their award may be reduced by their percentage of fault for the collision. A knowledgeable lawyer in Stevens Point could advise an injured pedestrian whether comparative negligence might impact their potential recovery.

What Damages are Available in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

If a careless driver caused an accident that resulted in a pedestrian’s harm, they are liable to pay the injured person’s losses or damages. Economic damages cover the expenses an injured person must pay due to the accident, including:

  • Medical treatment
  • Incidental expenses
  • Lost wages or diminished earning capacity if the injury prevents the person from returning to work
  • The cost of future medical care or rehabilitation

On the other hand, non-economic damages cover the losses that do not have a price tag. An injured person could collect non-economic damages for their disability, mental anguish, physical pain, lost ability to engage in activities they enjoy, and diminished quality of life. A compassionate attorney in Stevens Point could help an injured pedestrian and their family document how the accidented impacted their ability to live a full life and ensure they get the restitution they deserve.

Get Justice After a Pedestrian Accident with a Stevens Point Attorney

If a careless or reckless driver hit you while walking or jogging on the local roads, you should not bear the expense of your injuries. Fortunately, the law makes negligent drivers responsible for the harm they cause.

A Stevens Point pedestrian accident lawyer understands your pain and could help you hold a reckless driver accountable for your injuries and losses. Reach out as soon as possible to learn more.

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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