Walking is a daily activity for millions of people, but it comes with risks many don't anticipate. Pedestrian accidents in Indiana are more frequent than many people realize, often resulting in life-changing injuries. When negligence strikes, pedestrians are especially vulnerable due to how exposed they are on the streets. Without protective gear or safety equipment, even a minor collision can cause severe injuries.
At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that come with pedestrian accidents. If you’ve been injured while walking, know that you don't need to face these challenges alone. Our experienced attorneys are committed to fighting for injured pedestrians across Northwest Indiana to ensure they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Schafer & Schafer LLP Has Your Back
When you've been injured in a pedestrian accident, having experienced attorneys by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Schafer & Schafer LLP, we leverage our deep knowledge of Indiana's pedestrian laws and accident claims process to ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Our team provides a personalized approach to every case, taking the time to understand your unique circumstances and build a strategy tailored to your needs. From gathering crucial evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if necessary, Schafer & Schafer LLP's dedication to your case ensures you’re never fighting alone.
We are relentless in pursuing the maximum compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. With Schafer & Schafer LLP, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complex legal details. Our priority is your well-being and achieving the justice you deserve.
Understanding Pedestrian Legal Rights
Legal protections exist to safeguard pedestrians, but understanding your rights is crucial when pursuing a claim. Pedestrians generally have the right of way in Indiana under specific conditions, such as using designated crosswalks and following traffic signals. However, as with motorists, pedestrians are also expected to adhere to traffic laws to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
Pedestrians are legally required to:
- Use marked crosswalks whenever possible.
- Obey traffic control devices such as walk signals and pedestrian lights.
- Avoid stepping into the road suddenly or outside a vehicle’s stopping distance.
- Stay on sidewalks and avoid walking in bike lanes or roadways.
By following these rules, pedestrians can enhance their safety and reduce the likelihood of being excluded from injury claims based on negligence.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents occur for many reasons, often linked to negligent or reckless behavior from drivers, other road users, or even pedestrians themselves. Some of the most common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield at crosswalks
- Speeding or ignoring traffic signals
- Distracted driving caused by texting, eating, or other activities
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poor visibility due to weather, lighting, or obstructions
- Mistakes such as backing out of driveways or parking spaces without checking blind spots
- Poorly maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, or roadways
- Pedestrians jaywalking or being inattentive, such as texting while walking or wearing earbuds
Each accident is unique, but identifying the root cause is essential for building a strong legal case. Our team at Schafer & Schafer LLP thoroughly investigates the details of every case to ensure we hold the right parties accountable.
Serious Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Collisions
The injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can vary widely, but they are often severe due to the size and weight disparity between a motor vehicle and a person. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones due to the force of impact
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, sprains, or torn ligaments
- Cuts, lacerations, and bruises from being struck or thrown
- Spinal cord injuries potentially resulting in paralysis or chronic pain
- Internal injuries affecting organs or causing internal bleeding
- Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Fatalities, tragically cutting lives short in severe collisions
Dealing with these injuries can lead to mounting medical bills, lost income, ongoing therapy, or funeral expenses. Our attorneys are here to help you recover compensation for these losses.
How Negligence Plays a Role in Pedestrian Accidents
Negligence plays a key role in determining fault in pedestrian accidents. To pursue a claim, it must be proven that either the driver, the pedestrian, or another party failed to exercise reasonable care, leading to the accident. Examples of negligence include drivers running red lights, pedestrians ignoring crosswalk rules, or local governments not maintaining safe roadways.
Indiana’s Statute of Limitations
Be aware that you have only two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in Indiana. Missing this deadline could result in losing your right to recover compensation.
Comparative Fault in Indiana
Indiana follows a comparative negligence rule. This means even if a pedestrian shares some fault for a collision, as long as their share of the fault is 50% or less, they may still be eligible for compensation. However, their recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to them. If a pedestrian is deemed more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover damages.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?
The responsibility for a pedestrian accident can fall on a variety of parties, such as:
- Negligent motorists, including Uber or Lyft drivers.
- Bus, truck, or motorcycle operators.
- Cyclists or scooter operators.
- Government agencies responsible for maintaining sidewalks and roads.
- Property owners who fail to fix dangerous conditions.
- Employers (e.g., if the accident involved a delivery or commercial vehicle).
Determining liability often requires a detailed investigation, which is where our attorneys excel. We work tirelessly to identify all responsible parties and ensure they are held accountable.
Contact Schafer & Schafer LLP Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, reach out to Schafer & Schafer LLP today. We are committed to fighting for pedestrians in Northwest Indiana and will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.
Call us for a free consultation or complete our online contact form. Take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
