Pedestrian Accidents

Were you hit by a car as a pedestrian or bicyclist? Let the team at Shane Smith Law help.

Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Fighting for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Though the specific laws vary by state, drivers are generally required to yield to pedestrians whenever possible. These laws unfortunately do not stop negligent drivers from behaving recklessly and causing devastating collisions. 

A pedestrian who is struck by a vehicle may be able to recover compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, Shane Smith Law can help. Our robust resources and extensive experience have allowed us to assist thousands of personal injury victims throughout the United States. We have a strong track record of success and know how to win these high-stakes cases. 

Our team is not only focused on maximizing your monetary recovery but also on making sure you get the care you need to get better. Our legal professionals will handle the legal process while you get the rest and treatment you deserve. We will be by your side from beginning to end and advocate for you every step of the way. 


Request a case evaluation by calling (980) 246-2656 or contacting us online. Se habla español.


Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

All motorists have a legal obligation to be mindful of other drivers and pedestrians. This includes yielding to pedestrians who are crossing the road at traffic lights or crosswalks. Unfortunately, not all drivers exercise an adequate level of caution. A driver’s negligence can lead to a collision, even if a pedestrian was following the rules of the road. 

Pedestrian accidents often occur because:

  • The driver was speeding
  • The driver executed a turn without looking
  • The driver lost control of their vehicle due to reckless driving
  • The driver was texting or otherwise distracted instead of keeping their eyes on the road
  • The driver failed to yield 
  • The driver failed to signal before turning or changing lanes
  • The driver ignored traffic signals, including stoplights and stop signs 
  • The driver ignored adverse weather or traffic conditions
  • The driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Any vehicular collision can seriously injure drivers and passengers, though safety mechanisms are in place to limit the extent of the harm. 

Pedestrians, however, are inherently vulnerable, and a collision with a vehicle – even at a low speed – can lead to devastating, life-changing injuries.

Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

Types of Damages You Can Recover in a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit

If you were hit by a vehicle and are interested in recovering damages from the negligent driver, you will need to act quickly. 

Each state enforces a time limit for bringing a personal injury lawsuit, and if you miss the deadline, you will be barred from taking legal action. Many states enforce a statute of limitations of two years, but some states give victims more time (or less). 

Many high-speed collisions end with the death of the pedestrian. If your loved one was killed by a negligent driver in a pedestrian accident (or if they later died of their injuries), you will have additional time to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Again, the exact time limit varies by state.

A successful pedestrian accident lawsuit can help you recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of consortium

If you suffered serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle, do not hesitate to call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online.


Determining Liability for a Pedestrian Accident

Laws vary by state, but generally, drivers must make every effort to yield to pedestrians, even if they are illegally crossing the street. The reality is that many pedestrians are struck by vehicles despite following all traffic rules. Many collisions occur at crosswalks or in parking lots.

If you had the “right of way” and a driver still hit you, there is a good chance the motorist is liable for your injuries.

 If you were crossing the road at a stop sign, at a marked crosswalk, or when a traffic signal gave you permission to cross, you almost certainly had the right of way.

The driver may still be liable even if you did not have the right way if they were behaving negligently. 

For example, if you were hit while crossing the road illegally – but the motorist was texting while driving – you may still have a claim and be able to recover some damages. 

Our pedestrian accident attorneys will determine your level of liability – if any – and help you understand how it may affect your ability to get compensation.


If you have questions about your accident, contact our dedicated pedestrian accident attorneys today by calling (980) 246-2656.


What Is the Role of an Attorney in a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit?

You should assume the negligent driver will make every effort to settle the case for as little as possible – or attempt to deny you the compensation you are owed. You should also assume they will hire effective legal representation to help accomplish this goal. It is in your best interest to have you’re a seasoned legal advocate in your corner. 

An attorney can walk you through your state’s liability laws, investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim. They will work to negotiate a just settlement as quickly as possible. If a fair settlement is not possible, a lawyer can fight for you in court and work to maximize what you recover.

Why Shane Smith Law?

Our number one priority is making sure you get better. That starts with helping you access quality care and treatment. While you focus on recovery, our pedestrian accident lawyers will get to work on your case. We are a results-oriented firm that has a proven history of securing favorable results for our clients. Our team will use all of our extensive resources to pursue the compensation you deserve.