Being injured in a pedestrian accident can be life changing. The impact of a vehicle on a person walking is severe. Pedestrians often suffer catastrophic injuries. You may be dealing with medical bills, missed work, and pain. You may even be coping with the loss of a loved one. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Fort Worth, you are not alone. Many people face the same struggles after an accident. At Bailey & Galyen, we are here to help. Our Fort Worth pedestrian accident lawyers will help you seek justice and compensation for your injuries. We understand the challenges you are facing. Our team will stand by your side and fight for your rights.
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Fort Worth Pedestrian Accident Guide
- Dangerous Areas for Pedestrians in Fort Worth
- Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
- Compensation for Your Injuries
- Texas Laws Protecting Pedestrians
- Protections for Vulnerable Groups
- Legal Options for Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents
- Comparative Negligence in Texas Pedestrian Accident Cases
- How a Fort Worth Personal Injury Attorney Makes a Difference
- Bailey & Galyen: Local and Accessible Legal Help
- Call Bailey & Galyan for a Free Consultation
Dangerous Areas for Pedestrians in Fort Worth
Fort Worth has several areas where pedestrian accidents are more common. Busy intersections, downtown streets, and areas with high foot traffic can pose risks to walkers. Some particularly dangerous areas in Fort Worth include:
- West 7th Street: This entertainment district is a hotspot for accidents due to its large number of bars and restaurants and busy traffic.
- East Lancaster Avenue: This major thoroughfare has seen an increase in pedestrian accidents in recent years.
- Near the Texas Wesleyan University Campus: Many students walk to and from classes in this area, often along busy streets.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Traffic collisions involving pedestrians often lead to serious injuries. A person walking or standing has no protection against a car, truck, or motorcycle. Even a low-speed impact can cause severe harm. Some common injuries from these types of crashes include:- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts and bruises
Compensation for Your Injuries
Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to recover damages for:- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (such as personal belongings damaged in the accident)
- Loss of earning capacity
- Emotional distress
Wrongful Death in Pedestrian Accidents
Sadly, not all victims survive pedestrian accidents. Fatal injuries are more common when a car hits a person on foot. The force of a collision can be too much for the human body to withstand. If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
A wrongful death claim can help your family recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the accident
- Loss of income and support
- Pain and suffering
Texas Laws Protecting Pedestrians
Pedestrians have rights on Texas roads. Motorists are required to follow traffic laws that protect people walking. Some important Texas laws related to pedestrian safety include:- Yielding to Pedestrians: Texas law requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians at marked crosswalks and intersections.
- Sidewalks: Drivers must stop before entering a sidewalk or crosswalk area when exiting a parking lot or driveway.
- School Zones: Speed limits are reduced in school zones, and drivers must yield to children and crossing guards.
Protections for Vulnerable Groups
Certain groups of pedestrians are more vulnerable when navigating Fort Worth streets. Children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities often face greater risks of being involved in pedestrian accidents. These groups may have slower reaction times, physical limitations, or difficulty seeing and hearing, which can make them more susceptible to serious injuries. At Bailey & Galyen, we are committed to providing compassionate legal support to those most at risk.Children
Children are more likely to be involved in pedestrian accidents due to their smaller size, which can make them harder for drivers to see. Additionally, children may not fully understand traffic rules or act impulsively, such as unexpectedly running into the street. Schools, playgrounds, and busy neighborhoods can be particularly dangerous areas for young pedestrians.Elderly People
Elderly pedestrians face challenges related to mobility, slower reaction times, and declining vision or hearing. Crossing busy streets or walking in high-traffic areas can be difficult for seniors, especially if crosswalks are not well-marked or traffic lights are too quick to change. The elderly also tend to suffer more severe injuries when involved in accidents, making recovery longer and more complicated.People With Disabilities
Individuals with disabilities often face additional challenges as pedestrians, especially if the environment is not accessible. Wheelchair users, those with limited mobility, and visually or hearing-impaired individuals may struggle to safely navigate sidewalks or cross streets. Lack of ramps, improperly marked crosswalks, or inaccessible pedestrian signals can make walking especially dangerous for disabled individuals.Texas Laws Protecting Vulnerable Pedestrians
Federal and state laws protect vulnerable pedestrians, and drivers must exercise extra caution around children, the elderly, and disabled individuals. In addition to special traffic rules for school zones, some of these laws include:- ADA Compliance: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), public spaces, including sidewalks and crosswalks, must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This means ensuring that wheelchair ramps are available and that pedestrian signals are accessible for those with hearing or vision impairments.
- Duty of Care: Texas law requires drivers to exercise reasonable care when sharing the road with pedestrians, especially those who cannot protect themselves. This means slowing down, yielding the right of way, and being extra vigilant when children, seniors, or disabled individuals are present.
Unique Challenges in Recovering Compensation for High-Risk Pedestrians
While the law protects vulnerable pedestrians, recovering compensation after an accident can be more complicated for these groups. Insurance companies may argue that pre-existing medical conditions, age-related limitations, or disability-related factors contributed to the accident or worsened the injuries. An experienced bicycle accident attorney who understands the unique challenges of these claims is a valuable advocate for fair compensation.
- Children may face long-term consequences from an accident, such as developmental delays or permanent disabilities. It is important to account for future medical expenses and care when seeking compensation for a child.
- Elderly individuals may have pre-existing health conditions that could be worsened by an accident. Insurance companies may try to reduce their compensation by claiming that the injuries are unrelated to the accident, which is why having a lawyer to advocate for them is essential.
- Disabled pedestrians often need accommodations and specialized care after an accident. They may also have challenges proving that their injuries are solely related to the accident, especially if they already have medical conditions. A lawyer can help ensure that their full medical and financial needs are considered when seeking compensation.
Legal Options for Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents are another special type of case our personal injury attorneys see in this area of our practice. They are among the most devastating types of collisions. When a driver flees the scene after hitting a pedestrian, it leaves the victim vulnerable and without immediate help. These accidents often result in severe injuries or even death, and the emotional toll is immense. In addition to coping with physical injuries, victims and their families are left wondering if the driver will ever be brought to justice. While hit-and-run accidents present unique challenges, victims still have several legal options to pursue compensation. Here are some potential routes for seeking justice after a hit-and-run accident:Uninsured Motorist Coverage
One of the primary ways victims can seek compensation after a hit-and-run accident is through their own auto insurance policy, specifically through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage is designed to protect you in cases where the at-fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be identified, as in a hit-and-run. If you have UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
Some auto insurance policies in Texas include Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This type of coverage can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. PIP coverage may be especially helpful in hit-and-run cases where the responsible driver has not been found.Health Insurance and Other Benefits
While pursuing compensation from the at-fault driver is ideal, hit-and-run victims may also need to rely on health insurance to cover immediate medical costs. In addition, some individuals may have short-term or long-term disability coverage through their employer, which can provide financial support if they are unable to work.Tracking Down the Driver
Although the driver may have fled the scene, all hope is not lost. Law enforcement and experienced lawyers can work together to investigate and potentially track down the responsible party. Our team at Bailey & Galyen can assist by:- Collecting witness statements from people who may have seen the vehicle or driver
- Analyzing traffic camera footage or surveillance videos from nearby businesses
- Working with accident reconstruction experts to determine details about the vehicle involved
- Investigating damage to the victim’s body or property to identify the type of vehicle.
Comparative Negligence in Texas Pedestrian Accident Cases
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. However, the amount of your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Speaking with a lawyer will help you understand how this rule might apply in your case.How a Fort Worth Personal Injury Attorney Makes a Difference
Pedestrian accidents are often complex. Determining fault can be challenging. Insurance companies may try to blame the pedestrian for the accident. They might downplay the severity of your injuries or try to offer a low settlement. This is where having a lawyer on your side can make a difference. A Fort Worth pedestrian accident injury lawyer can:- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to prove fault
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Help you get the medical care you need
- Negotiate for fair compensation for your injuries and damages
- Represent you in court if needed
Bailey & Galyen: Local and Accessible Legal Help
At Bailey & Galyen, we have a strong presence throughout Texas, including Fort Worth. Our lawyers know Texas laws and are familiar with the local courts. We understand the challenges you face after a pedestrian accident and are here to help you navigate the legal process. We take pride in being accessible to our clients. With multiple offices across the state, you can easily meet with a lawyer near you. Whether you need help with medical bills, insurance claims, or pursuing a wrongful death case, we are here to support you.Call Bailey & Galyan for a Free Consultation
