Glen Burnie Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
You might think that you’re more protected when walking instead of driving, but data compiled by the Maryland Department of Transportation proves otherwise. On average, there are around 4,750 pedestrian accidents every year, leading to more than 120 fatalities and 3,800 injuries. For these victims, the losses are significant. Even beyond the physical pain, there are financial and emotional implications you may not expect until they take a tragic toll on your life.
At the Law Offices of Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC, our lawyers understand that your situation may seem grim as the victim of a pedestrian accident. However, you should realize that you do have rights under Maryland law, and we’re prepared to enforce them through all available remedies. Our team is relentless in seeking compensation for your losses, whether we’re negotiating a settlement with an insurance company or fighting for you in court. Please contact our firm to schedule a free consultation, so we can explain how a Glen Burnie pedestrian accidents lawyer is a vital asset in the legal process.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
These incidents are usually the result of carelessness by the driver of the motor vehicle, but negligence can take many forms. For instance, you may be entitled to monetary damages if the pedestrian accident was a result of:
- The motorist speeding in excess of the posted limit or driving too fast for conditions;
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk, intersection, or road shoulder;
- Improper turns and lane changes;
- Distracted driving, including texting, talking on a cell phone, posting to social media, eating, or grooming; and,
- Many other types of negligent, careless acts.
The Legal Process in Maryland Pedestrian Accidents
In a negligence-based case, you must prove that the driver breached the duty to exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle. However, it’s usually the motorist’s insurance company that you’ll deal with initially. You start the legal process by filing a claim for damages and attempting to negotiate a settlement. If the insurer won’t agree to a fair amount, you’ll need to file a lawsuit in civil court. Our Glen Burnie pedestrian accident attorneys will assist throughout the process.
You should note that Maryland’s rule on contributory negligence may apply in accidents involving pedestrians. Though the driver may be negligent through the acts described above, your conduct is also a focus in a personal injury case. If you were responsible in any way, you cannot recover any compensation for your losses. Examples include jaywalking, crossing against a traffic light, not walking on a crosswalk, and other forms of negligence.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Glen Burnie Pedestrian Accidents Lawyer
You can see that it’s essential to have solid legal representation if you were hurt in a pedestrian accident, as it’s difficult to work through the process when you’re also trying to heal from your injuries. To learn more about how we can help, please contact the Law Offices of Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC to set up a no-cost case evaluation today.
