Being hit by a car as a pedestrian is a terrifying experience. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection from the force of a crash, making injuries severe and the recovery process overwhelming. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering:
Do I need a lawyer to handle my pedestrian accident claim?
The answer depends on the situation, but in many cases, having an experienced pedestrian accident attorney can be the difference between receiving fair compensation and getting stuck with medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain without support.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we know how overwhelming this situation can be. That is why we are here to make things easier for you. We handle the legal process so you can focus on healing.
What Are the Rights of Pedestrians in Accidents?
Pedestrians in Virginia and other states have specific legal rights when it comes to road safety. In general, drivers are expected to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in designated crosswalks and areas where pedestrians legally have priority.
Some important pedestrian rights include:
- Crosswalk Protection – Drivers must stop for pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections without signals.
- Sidewalk Safety – Pedestrians have the right to use sidewalks without interference from vehicles.
- Right-of-Way in Certain Areas – School zones, parking lots, and driveways often have special rules to protect pedestrians.
Even if you were outside a crosswalk, a driver may still be held responsible if they were speeding, distracted, or otherwise negligent. If you are unsure about your rights after an accident, speaking with a pedestrian accident attorney can help you understand your options.
What Are Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents?
Since pedestrians have no protection against vehicles, injuries from these accidents can be severe or even life-threatening. Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Broken Bones – Fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis.
- Head and Brain Injuries – Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage that can lead to paralysis or chronic pain.
- Internal Injuries – Damage to organs, internal bleeding, or punctured lungs.
- Cuts, Bruises, and Road Rash – Skin abrasions and deep wounds from contact with the pavement.
Many pedestrian injuries require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, or even permanent disability accommodations. That is why seeking full compensation is so important.
What If the Driver Left the Scene?
A hit-and-run pedestrian accident is a nightmare scenario, but it happens more often than you might think. If the driver who hit you fled the scene, do not assume you are out of options.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident
- Call 911 Immediately – Report the accident so police can begin investigating.
- Get Witness Information – If anyone saw the accident, their statements could help track down the driver.
- Look for Surveillance Cameras – Security or traffic cameras may have recorded the crash.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you feel okay, some injuries do not appear right away.
- Contact an Attorney – A lawyer can help explore all possible options for compensation, even if the driver is never found.
If the driver cannot be identified, you may still be able to file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage. A pedestrian accident attorney can guide you through this process.
How Is Fault Determined in a Pedestrian Accident?
Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which means that if a pedestrian is even 1% at fault, they cannot recover compensation. Because of this strict law, proving that the driver was fully responsible is crucial.
Evidence used to determine fault includes:
- Police Reports – An official record of the accident can help establish fault.
- Witness Testimonies – Bystanders or other drivers may confirm what happened.
- Traffic Camera or Surveillance Footage – Video evidence can be powerful proof.
- Accident Reconstruction Experts – In some cases, specialists can analyze the scene and prove liability.
Insurance companies often try to shift some blame onto the pedestrian to avoid paying a claim. This is why having a lawyer to defend your rights and present strong evidence is so important.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident caused by a driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
1. Medical Expenses
Covers emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and future medical treatments.
2. Lost Wages
If you had to miss work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover lost income. If your injuries prevent you from working in the future, you may also claim loss of future earning capacity.
3. Pain and Suffering
Physical pain and emotional distress can last long after the accident. Compensation can account for chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, and reduced quality of life.
4. Permanent Disability or Disfigurement
If the accident caused permanent injuries, you might be entitled to additional compensation for ongoing medical needs and lifestyle changes.
5. Wrongful Death
If a pedestrian accident results in death, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Pedestrian accident claims can involve large medical expenses and long recovery times. That is why it is so important to have a lawyer who fights for the full compensation you deserve.
Contact the Parrish Law Firm for a FREE Pedestrian Accident Claim Review
At the Parrish Law Firm, we understand how devastating a pedestrian accident can be. From dealing with medical treatments to navigating complicated insurance claims, you should not have to handle this alone.
Why Choose Us?
- FREE Case Review – We will listen to your story and explain your legal options at no cost to you.
- No Upfront Fees – You do not pay anything unless we win your case.
- We Handle Everything – From investigating your accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we take care of the legal work so you can focus on healing.
Do Not Wait to Get the Help You Need
Pedestrian accident claims often have strict deadlines, especially if a government entity is involved. Do not risk missing out on the compensation you deserve.
Call the Parrish Law Firm today for a FREE pedestrian accident case review.
Your recovery starts with one simple step. Let us help you move forward.
Call or Text 571-229-1800 or Complete a Free Case Evaluation form