Pedestrian accidents in Hickory, NC, result in legal complexities that could benefit from the experience provided by a skilled personal injury attorney. At Ted A. Greve & Associates, our specialized knowledge in pedestrian accident cases offers compassionate support and aggressive advocacy to help clients achieve the compensation they deserve.
The Importance of Pedestrian Lawyers in Hickory, NC
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, often bearing the brunt of motor vehicle accidents. In North Carolina, more than 2,000 pedestrians are involved in police-reported crashes each year, resulting in 150-200 deaths and 200-300 serious injuries, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Pedestrian accidents can be caused by:
- Distracted or reckless driving.
- Failure to yield the right of way.
- Inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, which is a common issue in Hickory.
Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer is critical for victims to hold negligent parties accountable and secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Identifying Valid Pedestrian Injury Claims: Know If You Have a Case
Believe it or not, not every pedestrian accident results in a viable personal injury claim. You may only be entitled to compensation if you prove the driver’s negligence caused your injuries. Common examples of driver negligence include:
- A driver who fails to stop at a crosswalk.
- A driver that is speeding or runs a red light.
- A driver who gets behind the wheel under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
To build a strong case for your claims, you must obtain evidence, such as police reports, eyewitness accounts, and surveillance footage, proving the other party was at fault for your injuries. Additionally, if you were injured while crossing a designated crosswalk or due to unsafe road conditions, you may also be entitled to compensation.
The Role of Negligence in Hickory Pedestrian Accidents
Negligence is a breach of duty by the party responsible, such as a driver failing to yield at a crosswalk. It is the leading cause of many pedestrian accidents. To establish negligence in a pedestrian accident case, you must prove:
- Duty of Care: The driver was legally obligated to ensure your safety (which every driver agrees to the second they get behind the wheel).
- Breach of Duty: The driver acted recklessly or failed to follow traffic laws.
- Causation: The driver’s accident led to your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered losses, such as medical expenses or lost income.
North Carolina’s negligence rule can complicate cases: if the pedestrian is found even partially at fault for the accident, the pedestrian may be barred from recovering compensation.
Determining Liability: Who is At Fault?
Liability in pedestrian accidents often depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. Potentially liable parties include:
- Drivers: Drivers may be liable for pedestrian injuries if they are caught speeding, engaged in distracted driving, or failing to yield.
- Municipalities: If inadequate infrastructure, such as poor lighting or unsafe crossings, contributed to the accident, a municipality or a city may be responsible for your pedestrian injuries.
- Other Pedestrians or Cyclists: In rare cases, the negligence of other pedestrians or cyclists (such as a biker who veers into the pedestrian crosswalk and knocks an older woman down) can cause that party to be held responsible for your injuries.
Statute of Limitations in North Carolina: Timing is Crucial
North Carolina law dictates a three-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits. You may be barred from recovering compensation for your injuries if you miss this deadline. However, exceptions, such as cases involving minors or delayed discovery of injuries, may apply.
How Our Hickory Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help Your Claim for Compensation
Ted A. Greve & Associates are pleased to provide comprehensive case analysis, negotiation expertise, and unparalleled courtroom advocacy on behalf of all our clients. We will investigate the accident and gather evidence that supports your claim.
Our team focuses on recovering compensation from the at-fault party that will cover your accident-related injuries and losses to the fullest extent.
Critical Steps to Take Following a Pedestrian Accident
To make your claim as successful as possible, there are steps you should take post-accident.
Building a Strong Personal Injury Claim: Evidence and Documentation
To strengthen your claim, it is essential to:
- Seek immediate medical attention and keep all records of your hospital stays and doctor’s visits.
- File a police report and request a copy for your records.
- Collect evidence, such as photos of the accident scene, injuries, and damaged property.
- Gather witness statements and contact information.
Meeting the Statute of Limitations: Ensuring Timely Filing
File your case as quickly as possible, as failing to do so can result in the loss or degradation of evidence and may cause you to miss the three-year statute of limitations deadline.
Common Types of Injuries and Compensation in Hickory
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection available for victims. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Neck and back injuries: Sprains, strains, tears, fractures, herniated discs
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis fractures
- Internal injuries: Organ damage, internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries: Leading to paralysis in severe cases
Compensation varies depending on the extent of injuries but typically includes money for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma
Choosing the Right Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Hickory, NC
Selecting the right attorney is critical for the success of your case. You should always look for a law firm that has:
- A proven track record
- A client-centered approach
- The resources and expertise to see your case through to the end
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Hickory, NC, don’t face the legal process alone. Ted A. Greve & Associates is here to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. During our free consultation, we will listen to your story, assess your case, and explain your legal options. Contact us today, and let us help you take the first step toward justice for your injuries from a pedestrian accident.
