Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian accidents can have catastrophic results, leading to severe injuries, financial burdens, and lasting emotional trauma. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, you need a Charlotte pedestrian accident lawyer on your side to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents in Charlotte

Pedestrian accidents occur when a vehicle collides with a person on foot, leading to serious injuries or death. These types of accidents can occur in many places, such as parking lots, intersections, or residential areas. Several factors can contribute to pedestrian accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are on their phones, eating, or are engaged in other activities that cause them not to notice pedestrians can lead to accidents.
• Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds without being able to stop in time is a common factor in accidents.
• Failure to Yield: Disregarding yield signs at crosswalks or intersections can lead to accidents.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Impaired judgment, coordination, and reaction time due to alcohol or drugs is a leading factor in pedestrian accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Bad weather conditions, low lighting, or obstructed views can contribute to accidents.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving, running red lights, or making illegal turns can all factor into pedestrian accidents.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 7,388 pedestrian deaths in 2021 across the state of North Carolina, a number that increases each year. In Charlotte, North Carolina, 22.9% of the 109 fatalities that year occurred in pedestrian accidents.

In an attempt to decrease these numbers and protect its citizens, Charlotte adopted the Vision Zero action plan. The plan aims to reduce traffic deaths in the city to zero by 2030. The plan includes strategies such as improving road infrastructure, enhancing public transportation options, and increasing pedestrian-friendly crossings. Vision Zero also focuses on improving traffic laws and raising public awareness about pedestrian safety.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, take steps to help protect your health and legal rights. You are wise to:

• Seek immediate medical attention. Some injuries do not present immediately, so it’s important to have a medical professional examine you.
• Call 911 and report the accident to obtain a detailed report of the incident. You can also procure a copy of the accident report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department’s website.
• Gather evidence, including photos of the scene and any injuries you sustain.
• Collect witness information so you can contact them if you need help supporting your claim.
• Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal representation, as these companies may try to minimize your compensation.
• Contact an experienced Charlotte pedestrian accident lawyer to help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and fight for your rights.

How a Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help?

The team at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, is dedicated to advocating for victims of pedestrian accidents. We work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Our skilled attorneys provide a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, analyzing police reports, and reconstructing the accident scene. We then determine liability by identifying responsible parties, which can include municipalities, negligent drivers, or another third party.

We negotiate with insurance companies to help you get the compensation you deserve. This might include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial and represent you in court.

Charlotte Pedestrian Accident FAQs

Q: Can You Sue Someone for Hitting a Pedestrian?

A: Yes, a pedestrian can make a claim against a driver for hitting them if the driver was negligent. Negligence may include reckless driving, speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. The pedestrian is charged with proving the driver’s negligence as the cause of the injuries. Compensation can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the pedestrian was partially at fault, like in an instance of jaywalking, compensation may be reduced or denied.

Q: How Long Does it Take to Settle a Pedestrian Accident?

A: The time it takes to settle a pedestrian accident case varies. Factors such as liability, negotiations with the insurance company, and the severity of the injuries all play a role in the settlement timeline. All necessary paperwork and steps must be accomplished before a settlement can proceed, and this tends to slow the process down. Cases that move to court can take longer.

Q: What Happens if You Hit a Pedestrian in Charlotte?

A: If you hit a pedestrian in Charlotte, the first step is to stop, provide assistance, and check for injuries. You must report the accident to law enforcement and call for medical help if necessary. North Carolina follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if the pedestrian was even slightly at fault, they may not recover damages. If the driver held full responsibility, penalties might include fines, license suspension, or even jail time.

Q: Is it Worth it to Hire an Accident Attorney?

A: Hiring an accident attorney can be worth it if injuries are involved. An experienced lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and maximize compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Insurance companies tend to offer lower settlements or deny claims completely, but an attorney can help you get fair treatment for your case. Many accident attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.

Q: What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

A: Immediately after a pedestrian accident, prioritize your safety by moving to a secure location, if possible. Call 911 for medical help and have a police report written up by the CMPD. Document the scene, taking photos of details and injuries. Gather information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible so they can begin fighting for your rights and getting you the compensation you need in your recovery process.

Contact a Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, seek legal help right away. The team at Steven T. Meier, PLLC, can evaluate your case and guide you on the legal process necessary to ensure you receive both justice and the compensation you need to recover. Call us today to schedule a consultation.