Georgetown Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

The City of Georgetown is pedestrian-friendly since there are endless opportunities for walking on sidewalks or through scenic parks. However, another person’s negligent behavior could instantly turn a safe space into a dangerous one. If a careless motorist or environmental hazard injured a pedestrian, the wounded person could consult a personal injury attorney and file a lawsuit. Every accident is unique and requires thorough examination. If you were struck or harmed while walking, a Georgetown pedestrian accident lawyer could protect your rights and help you pursue financial compensation.

What Should Someone Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

Pedestrian accidents can be dangerous because people commuting on foot typically have little protection from heavy vehicles or other hazards. Immediately after being struck, an injured person should seek medical attention. Not only will doing so ensure their physical safety but having a healthcare professional verify injuries will bolster the impact of a plaintiff’s claim. After seeking medical care, an injured pedestrian should keep track of any documents issued by their hospital. After navigating the medical process, the plaintiff should coordinate a meeting with an experienced lawyer about filing a lawsuit. A pedestrian accident case may feature different requirements, depending on the circumstances. Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003 establishes that an injured person must file their claim within two years of the episode. However, in some cases a government agency causes a pedestrian accident. Local administration failing to maintain a safe public walkway, for instance, could cause problems. In these cases, a plaintiff must file a lawsuit within six months of their injury. Regardless of the details of a pedestrian accident, an injured person should consult a Georgetown attorney immediately. Reaching out for help quickly could give a knowledgeable lawyer enough time to assemble a detailed and valid claim.

Pedestrian Laws, Rules, & Regulations in Georgetown

Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code Chapter 552 outlines the rules and regulations that govern pedestrian conduct. For example, this statute establishes that local pedestrians must:
  • Comply with traffic control signals
  • Use crosswalks to navigate an intersection
  • stay on the curb when walking
  • Avoid jaywalking
  • Yield to oncoming traffic
The statute also establishes that drivers have to respect the safety and right of way of pedestrians. A defendant’s failure to abide by these laws gives an experienced Georgetown lawyer more legal standing in a pedestrian accident case.

Comparative Fault in Pedestrian Accidents

Texas state law utilizes a modified comparative fault system for apportioning damages in a personal injury case. The amount of compensation a plaintiff can collect directly corresponds with their level of involvement in an accident. If a plaintiff is less than 51 percent responsible for an accident, they are eligible to receive damages. The less involved they were in the collision, the more damages they will receive.

Who Determines the Percentage of Fault?

In civil cases like personal injury claims, the “trier of fact” determines how to split the percentage of fault between each relevant party. In most instances, a jury classifies as a trier of fact and will handle this division based on the evidence they analyze in a trial. If there is no jury involved in a legal proceeding, a judge will determine the defendant and the plaintiff’s level of responsibility. A skilled pedestrian accident attorney in Georgetown could ensure that a trier of fact has all the evidence they need to make the best decision.

A Georgetown Pedestrian Accident Attorney Could Fight for You

Countless pedestrians traverse the Georgetown area daily. State law outlines their many rights and describes the duty that motorists have to keep them safe. If a driver fails to uphold their duty of care and causes an accident after navigating recklessly, an injured pedestrian could collect monetary reimbursement. A successful claim could help a wounded plaintiff recover from the aftermath of a frightening situation. If you sustained injuries in a crosswalk collision, you should seek the counsel of a seasoned Georgetown pedestrian accident lawyer. A tenacious litigator could fight for your best interests and help hold the careless driver accountable for their actions. Reach out to our offices today to schedule a consultation.