Utah Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Being a pedestrian in Utah can be dangerous, particularly when they have to share the road with motor vehicles. When a pedestrian is involved in an accident with a vehicle, the consequences can be severe, resulting in serious injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it's important to seek the assistance of an experienced Utah pedestrian accident attorney.

At ReshLaw Accident & Injury, our team of dedicated lawyers is here to assist you in knowing your legal entitlements and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Our Utah Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Are Ready to Help

Our pedestrian accident attorneys are prepared to provide comprehensive legal representation, which includes:

• Investigating the Accident: We will thoroughly examine the circumstances of the accident to find out who is at fault and uncover any potential sources of compensation.
• Collecting Evidence: Our attorneys will gather and preserve crucial evidence such as photos, witness testimonies, and medical records to build a compelling case on your behalf.
• Building a Case: We will use the evidence we collect to build a compelling case demonstrating the other party's negligence and showing the extent of your injuries and losses.
• Negotiating With Insurance Companies: Our experienced attorneys will handle all communications with insurance companies, ensuring that your best interests are protected and working to obtain a fair settlement on your behalf.
• Representing Clients in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our skilled litigators are prepared to represent you in court, fighting for the indemnities you need to recover from your injuries.

Utah Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately all too common in Utah. According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, there were over 780 pedestrian accidents in the state in 2021, resulting in 45 fatalities and numerous injuries. 52% of drivers in pedestrian-motor-vehicle crashes were under 40 years old. 51% of pedestrians in crashes were under 25 years old. These statistics highlight the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for effective legal representation when accidents occur.

Pedestrian Laws to Know According to a Utah Pedestrian Accident Attorney

In Utah, both drivers and pedestrians have specific rights and obligations when it comes to road-sharing. Some key laws to be aware of include:

• Pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked crosswalks and intersections without traffic signals, provided they follow traffic signals and signs.
• Drivers must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks when entering or exiting driveways, alleys, or parking lots.
• It is illegal for drivers to overtake or pass a vehicle that has stopped for a pedestrian at a crosswalk.

Understanding these laws can help protect your rights in the event of a pedestrian accident.

Most Prevalent Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Utah

A pedestrian accident can happen in Salt Lake City at just about any time. Our proficient pedestrian accident lawyers can help you with your accident claim, but understanding how a pedestrian accident might occur is crucial.

Driver Negligence

Many pedestrian accidents occur due to driver negligence, such as not giving the road adequate attention, texting while driving, or not looking out for pedestrians in crosswalks. A Utah pedestrian accident lawyer from our team can examine and appraise your case to see if you deserve compensation.

Failure to Yield to Pedestrians

Drivers who do not give the right-of-way to pedestrians at an intersection or in a crosswalk can cause serious accidents, as pedestrians have minimal to zero protection against the impact of a vehicle. 

44% of pedestrian accidents occur at marked crosswalks in Utah and 7% of pedestrian accidents occur at unmarked crosswalks in Utah.   

In Utah there are two types of crosswalks which tell drivers how they should behave. For maximum protection “zebra-style” crosswalks instruct drivers to wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the road before they are allowed to continue. The zebra crosswalk is always used in school zones to protect students and crossing guards. In addition to school zones, zebra crosswalks are also found in busier city areas with a high volume of traffic.

Parallel crosswalks tell drivers that they can keep driving once the pedestrian is a safe distance away even if the pedestrian is still crossing. Once they have passed the car it is safe for the driver to continue. This is the most common crosswalk at a four-way stop or in areas with a lot of walkers. 

A crosswalk accident can result in serious injuries and major medical bills. At ReshLaw Accident & Injury, our team specializes in crosswalk accidents. We have handled dozens of crosswalk accidents over the years and understand the subtle nuances that make a difference in crosswalk accident cases. Our crosswalk accident lawyers are here to help you.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving includes texting or using a phone while operating a vehicle. These can lead to pedestrian accidents, as drivers may not notice pedestrians at a crosswalk or crossing their path. We are here to represent pedestrian accident victims who have been injured by distracted drivers.

Speeding

Speeding increases the risk of pedestrian accidents since drivers may not always have enough time to react to pedestrians on the roadway. Higher speeds can also result in more severe injuries. An experienced pedestrian injury attorney can help you pursue maximum compensation for any pedestrian accident injuries you may have suffered.

Drunk Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs a driver's ability to react and make safe decisions, putting pedestrians at risk.

These are just a few of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents seen by our law firm. A prolific personal injury lawyer can assist you in recovering what was lost if you have been injured in any of the accidents above.

Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries that permanently affect a victim's life. Pedestrians are at a heightened risk of getting severely injured or even killed in accidents, as they have little protection against the impact of a vehicle. Below are some of the most typical injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents:

• Broken Bones: Pedestrians often suffer broken bones, especially in the legs, arms, and pelvis, as a result of the force of impact.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Pedestrians may experience TBIs due to hitting their head on the ground or the vehicle. Symptoms of a TBI can range from mild to severe, with common symptoms including headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Pedestrians can suffer spinal cord damages that can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis. These injuries can significantly impact a victim's quality of life.
• Internal Organ Damage: The force of a collision with a vehicle can result in internal organ damage, including damage to the liver, spleen, or kidneys, which can be life-threatening.
• Lacerations and Contusions: Pedestrians may suffer lacerations and contusions from the impact of the vehicle or falling to the ground.
• Amputations: Pedestrians may lose a limb due to the impact of the accident, leading to permanent disabilities and significant lifestyle changes.
• Emotional Trauma: Pedestrians can suffer emotional trauma after being involved in an accident, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. These emotional injuries can have long-lasting effects and may require ongoing treatment.

Pedestrians rarely walk about from an accident. If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, it's imperative to pursue medical attention immediately, even if you don't feel injured at the time. Many injuries, such as TBIs and internal organ damage, may not be instantly apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Contacting a Utah pedestrian accident attorney straightaway is essential to safeguard your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Recommended Steps to Take After Your Utah Pedestrian Accident

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, it's important to take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel your injuries are negligible.
2. Get in touch with the police and file an accident report.
3. Make sure the officer gathers information from the driver involved, including their contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information.
4. Take photos or videos of the location, your injuries, and any property damage. This will serve as documentation of the accident scene.
5. Secure contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
6. Avoid discussing the accident or admitting fault to anyone, including insurance adjusters. Do not post on social media. 
7. Contact an experienced Utah pedestrian accident attorney to discuss your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Work with a lawyer from our team after a car or pedestrian accident. Our team can offer you a no-cost consultation to evaluate the viability of your personal injury case. We aim to help you obtain a just settlement for your injuries.

Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Utah

The statute of limitations in Utah for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is typically four years from the accident date. A lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries has to be filed within those four years. However, there are some exceptions, and an injured party should speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss the case. 

If you file within this time frame, your claim may be allowed, and you could protect your right to seek compensation. It's important to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure your claim is filed promptly.

Compensatory Damages for Pedestrian Injury Accidents in Utah

Victims of pedestrian accidents often face significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. To help alleviate these burdens, Utah law allows injured parties to seek compensatory damages. These damages are intended to make the victim "whole" again by compensating them for the economic and non-economic losses they suffered due to the accident.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are tangible financial losses that can be easily quantified. They are designed to reimburse the injured party for the monetary costs they have incurred or are expected to incur due to the accident. Some examples of economic damages in a pedestrian injury case include:

• Medical expenses: This covers any costs related to medical treatment, such as emergency room visits, hospitalizations, surgeries, medication, and physical therapy. In cases requiring ongoing care, future medical expenses may also be considered.
• Lost Income: You may be legally entitled to damages for the income you lost during your recovery period if you cannot work due to your injuries. We may help you recover these missed wages.
• Reduced earning capacity: In some cases, your injuries may preclude you from returning to work in the same capacity as before the accident. You may be able to recover reparation for your reduced earning potential if this is the case.
• Costs of rehabilitation and ongoing care: Serious injuries may require long-term care or specialized rehabilitation services, such as occupational therapy or home health care. These expenses can also be part of your economic damages claim.
• Property damage: You may be entitled to reparation for the repair or replacement expenses of your personal property, such as clothing or personal items, if they were damaged or destroyed in the accident.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more subjective and are intended to compensate you for the intangible losses you have experienced due to the accident. While these damages can be more difficult to quantify, they are no less important in addressing the full impact of your injuries. Examples of non-economic damages include:

• Pain and suffering: This covers the physical pain and discomfort you have experienced due to your injuries. Factors such as the degree of your injuries, the duration of your pain, and the potential for ongoing discomfort can all influence the compensation you may receive.
• Emotional distress: Accidents can cause significant psychological and emotional trauma, leading to anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You may be able to recover indemnity for the emotional toll your injuries have taken on your life.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed has been limited by your injuries or overall quality of life, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
• Loss of consortium or companionship: In cases where your injuries have affected your relationships with loved ones, such as a spouse or partner, you may recover damages for the negative impact on those relationships. This can include the loss of intimacy, affection, or support.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, punitive damages may be given if the driver's actions (or inaction) were serious, egregious, or reckless. These damages aim to punish the wrongdoer and dissuade others from engaging in similar behavior.

Contact Our Experienced Pedestrian Injury Lawyers at ReshLaw Accident & Injury Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact ReshLaw today to schedule a free case consultation. Our dedicated Utah pedestrian accident attorneys will examine your case, helping you seek the compensation you deserve.

Let us help you with sympathetic guidance and experience during this difficult time. Do not wait, reach out to our injury law firm today.

Utah Pedestrian Accident FAQS

We will always give time to address any inquiries or concerns you may have before we move forward. Few of the most frequently asked questions our clients ask include:

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Pedestrian Accident Infographic