Virginia Crosswalk Accident Lawyer
Being injured in a crosswalk accident can be so upsetting, especially when you carefully followed safety precautions by seeking out a crosswalk. Unfortunately, not everyone makes the same effort to ensure that motorists and pedestrians can safely share the roadway.
If you or a loved one have been injured while crossing the road, our firm’s experienced Virginia pedestrian accident attorneys can help you seek reimbursement for your medical bills and other costs. It is only fair that the party responsible for your injuries be held accountable and deterred from future negligent or reckless driving.
Crosswalk Accidents in Virginia
Crosswalks are present to protect pedestrians, especially those most vulnerable to potential injuries, like children and senior citizens. Anyone can be injured in a crosswalk accident though. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 4700 people are killed each year in pedestrian-involved accidents, including crosswalk accidents, and as many as 76,000 pedestrians are injured.
Common Causes
Some common causes of crosswalk accidents include drowsy, distracted or drunk drivers, poorly maintained roadways, crosswalks, signage or sidewalks, dangerous weather conditions, and speeding. Whatever the cause of the crosswalk accident, however, it is important to consult an attorney who can protect your rights.
Crosswalk Accident Injuries
Crosswalk accident injuries can be very severe – even fatal. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle while using a crosswalk, the resulting injuries are more likely to be quite serious, rather than minor. This is because pedestrians using a crosswalk may believe they are safe, and thus are not prepared to quickly get out of the way of a speeding motorist who disregards or does not see the crosswalk.
Brain damage, spinal cord injuries, broken or lost limbs, disfigurement and death are all associated with crosswalk accidents.
Contributory Negligence Doctrine
Most states have adopted standards allowing victims who bear some responsibility for their own injuries to still recover damages from another party who partially caused the harm. However, Virginia is one of only a handful of states that still operates under the so-called contributory negligence standard, which bars victims from recovering damages if they shared a portion of the fault – however small – in causing the injury.
This means that if you are found to have contributed to causing your crosswalk accident in Virginia – by crossing during a “no walk” signal, for instance – you could lose the opportunity to recover compensation. This is one reason why it is so crucial that you work with a crosswalk accident lawyer in Virginia who has experience navigating Virginia’s specific negligence standards as soon as possible.
Consult an Experienced Crosswalk Accident Lawyer in Virginia
Your Virginia crosswalk accident attorney will be able to analyze the details of your case and determine whether you truly bear any responsibility in the accident. What constitutes “fault” legally is often quite different than what the average person might consider fault. Regardless of your situation, an experienced Virginia crosswalk accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and whether you have a viable claim.