Pedestrian accidents in Fort Worth can change a life in an instant. A stroll through Sundance Square, a walk across Lancaster Avenue, or simply escorting a child through a school zone in Tarrant County can quickly become dangerous when a negligent driver fails to act responsibly. Unlike drivers who have the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are completely exposed, which makes them vulnerable to catastrophic injuries. The consequences often include long hospital stays, time away from work, and overwhelming uncertainty about the future.
The confusion that follows these accidents is immense. Victims and their families face immediate questions: How will medical bills be covered? What if the injuries prevent a return to work? Will the insurance company pay fairly? These are difficult issues to navigate alone. At Patterson Law Group, we understand these challenges and are here to provide clarity, legal guidance, and support. This page explains the realities of pedestrian accidents in Fort Worth, outlines common causes and injuries, reviews applicable Texas laws, and shows how our team helps families pursue the recovery they deserve.
Why Patterson Law Group Handles Pedestrian Cases Differently
Not every law firm approaches pedestrian accident cases the same way. High-volume firms often handle as many claims as possible, processing clients quickly with limited personal attention. At Patterson Law Group, we reject that model. Our focus is on serving people, not processing files, and that philosophy sets us apart in Fort Worth and across Tarrant County.
Selective Caseloads for Personalized Service
We deliberately limit the number of clients we represent at any given time. This allows us to devote significant resources and time to each case. Rather than treating you as just another file, we take the time to learn your story, understand your needs, and tailor our approach accordingly. When you work with us, you can trust that your case will not be lost in the shuffle.
Direct Access to Attorneys
From your first call forward, you will have direct access to an attorney—not just paralegals or assistants. We believe that building strong attorney-client relationships improves communication, reduces stress, and leads to stronger results. Knowing you can reach your lawyer and trained legal staff provides peace of mind during a stressful recovery process.
Beyond-Legal Support for Recovery
Legal help is only one piece of the puzzle after a pedestrian accident. Many clients need assistance finding medical providers, coordinating treatment, or dealing with vehicle repairs if a car was also damaged. Our team helps connect you with trusted local doctors, physical therapists, and other resources. We also assist with insurance paperwork to relieve some of the burden from your shoulders. This support allows you to focus on healing while we handle the rest.
Commitment to Fort Worth’s Community
Our roots are in Fort Worth, and we are dedicated to improving safety in the community we share. We are familiar with the local courts, dangerous intersections, and patterns of traffic behavior that impact pedestrian safety. By advocating for injured pedestrians and holding negligent drivers accountable, we hope to make Fort Worth safer for everyone. Our community involvement also ensures that we bring local knowledge and insight to every case we handle.
Pedestrian Accidents in Fort Worth and Tarrant County
Fort Worth’s rapid growth has increased both vehicle and foot traffic. Unfortunately, that growth has also contributed to a rise in pedestrian accidents. Certain areas of the city are especially risky for people on foot.
Congested intersections downtown are common accident sites. Locations near Sundance Square, West 7th, and major event venues bring large crowds and heavy traffic together, creating opportunities for collisions when drivers fail to yield. Along Lancaster Avenue and other busy corridors, high speeds and complex intersections make pedestrians particularly vulnerable.
Residential neighborhoods present a different danger. Poor lighting, limited sidewalks, and drivers who speed through side streets create unsafe conditions, especially at night. Around shopping centers and commercial corridors, drivers often focus on finding parking rather than watching for pedestrians, increasing the risk of collisions in crosswalks and parking lots.
School zones are another high-risk environment. Children walking to and from school are particularly vulnerable because of their size and unpredictability. Despite flashing lights and reduced speed limits, not every driver exercises the caution required in these areas, leading to tragic results.
Leading Causes of Pedestrian Collisions in North Texas
Pedestrian accidents rarely happen by chance. Most are the direct result of driver negligence. Understanding these common causes helps explain why victims have the right to hold drivers accountable.
Drivers Failing to Yield at Crosswalks
Texas law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, yet violations are frequent. Some drivers simply ignore the rule, while others misjudge how quickly a pedestrian is crossing. These failures often result in severe crashes, particularly at busy intersections where pedestrians have the right of way.
Distracted or Impaired Driving
Cell phones, navigation systems, and in-car distractions pull drivers’ attention from the road. Impairment from alcohol or drugs makes matters worse by reducing reaction times and judgment. When attention is compromised, pedestrians—already difficult to see—are often overlooked until it is too late.
Speeding Near Schools and Neighborhoods
Excessive speed is especially dangerous in areas with high pedestrian activity. In school zones, speeding dramatically increases the likelihood of hitting a child. In residential areas, drivers who disregard posted limits put walkers, joggers, and children playing outside at risk. Speed also magnifies the severity of injuries when collisions occur.
Poor Visibility and Unsafe Intersections
Low lighting, obstructed views, and poorly marked intersections contribute to pedestrian accidents. Drivers may not notice someone crossing until the last second, leaving no time to stop. In some cases, inadequate crosswalk markings or malfunctioning signals create additional hazards that put pedestrians in danger.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Because pedestrians have no protection against the force of a vehicle, injuries are often catastrophic. These injuries can alter every aspect of a person’s life, from their ability to work to their independence at home.
Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions
Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of pedestrian accidents. Victims may suffer concussions, brain hemorrhages, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These conditions affect memory, concentration, and overall cognitive function. Long-term care, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment are often required.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The impact of being struck by a vehicle can fracture or compress the spinal cord. Victims may experience partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive rehabilitation and adaptive equipment. These injuries often demand lifelong adjustments and impose significant financial burdens on families.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Broken legs, hips, arms, and ribs are common in pedestrian collisions. Some fractures are simple breaks that heal with time, while others require surgical repair and prolonged physical therapy. These injuries frequently limit mobility and may keep victims out of work for weeks or months.
Internal Organ Trauma
Blunt force from a vehicle can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, including injuries to the liver, lungs, and kidneys. Because these injuries are not always immediately visible, they can be life-threatening if not diagnosed quickly. Emergency surgery and extended hospital stays are often necessary.
Emotional Distress and PTSD
Beyond physical harm, the psychological effects of a pedestrian accident can linger long after visible wounds heal. Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional trauma can interfere with recovery, strain relationships, and make it difficult to resume normal activities. Counseling and therapy are often critical to full recovery.
Texas Laws Protecting Pedestrians After a Crash
Texas law recognizes the heightened vulnerability of pedestrians and imposes specific obligations on drivers. Under the Texas Transportation Code, motorists must yield the right of way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections. Drivers are also required to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.
School zones carry additional protections. Reduced speed limits and flashing lights signal to drivers that children may be present, and penalties for violations in these areas are severe. The law also requires drivers to stop for crossing guards and buses that are loading or unloading children.
Shared Fault Under Texas’s Comparative Negligence System
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system, sometimes called the 51% rule. This means that if a pedestrian is found partly at fault—such as by jaywalking or crossing outside of a designated crosswalk—their recovery may be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, as long as the pedestrian is not more than 50% responsible, they can still pursue damages. This rule makes it especially important to have an attorney who can push back against unfair blame-shifting by insurers.
By understanding these protections and how they apply, you can see why legal support is critical after a pedestrian accident. An experienced attorney ensures that your rights under the law are enforced and that your claim fully reflects the impact of the crash on your life. Patterson Law Group is committed to providing that support for Fort Worth families.
What to Do Immediately After Being Struck by a Vehicle in Fort Worth
Being struck by a vehicle is frightening and often chaotic. Victims may feel disoriented, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can make a significant difference in protecting both your health and your legal rights.
Call 911 and Get Medical Attention
Your health must always come first. Calling 911 ensures that emergency medical professionals are dispatched and that injuries are assessed quickly. Even if you do not feel pain right away, it is important to be checked out—serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not appear until later. Getting medical treatment promptly also creates documentation linking your injuries directly to the crash.
Request a Police Report from Fort Worth PD
Law enforcement officers who respond to the scene will prepare an official crash report. This document records essential details, including driver statements, witness accounts, and the officer’s initial findings. Requesting a copy of the report from the Fort Worth Police Department provides critical evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Without this report, it is much harder to prove what actually happened.
Collect Driver and Witness Information
Gathering contact details at the scene strengthens your claim. Obtain the driver’s license information, insurance policy number, and vehicle registration. If witnesses saw the crash, ask for their names and phone numbers. These witnesses may provide statements later that confirm your version of events, which can be especially important if the driver disputes fault.
Document Injuries and Accident Scene
Use your phone to take photographs of the accident scene, including crosswalks, traffic signals, skid marks, and vehicle damage. Photograph your injuries as well—visual evidence is powerful when demonstrating the severity of harm. Keeping a written record of your symptoms and recovery process also helps show the ongoing impact of the accident.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Promptly
Reaching out to a lawyer early in the process helps you avoid costly mistakes. Attorneys handle communication with insurers, gather evidence, and ensure deadlines are met. By involving an attorney quickly, you improve your chances of building a strong case and protecting your right to compensation.
Establishing Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Claim
Determining liability is central to any pedestrian accident case. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and insurance companies often attempt to shift blame to minimize payouts. Establishing fault requires careful investigation and strong legal advocacy.
Negligent or Reckless Drivers
Most pedestrian accidents are caused by negligent drivers who speed, fail to yield, or drive while distracted. When a driver violates traffic laws and strikes a pedestrian, they can be held accountable for the injuries they cause. Evidence such as police reports, crash scene photographs, and witness testimony often plays a key role in proving negligence.
Employers of At-Fault Commercial Drivers
If the driver was operating a company vehicle or working at the time of the crash, their employer may also be liable. Employers can be held responsible for poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or unsafe work demands that contribute to crashes. Including employers in claims can provide additional insurance coverage and improve the chances of full compensation.
Local Governments Responsible for Unsafe Roads or Signals
Sometimes poor infrastructure plays a role in pedestrian crashes. Missing crosswalks, malfunctioning traffic signals, or inadequate lighting may contribute to an accident. In such cases, local or state government agencies responsible for maintaining safe roads may share liability. Claims against government entities are complex but may be necessary to secure justice.
Compensation Options for Injured Pedestrians
Pedestrian accident victims often face overwhelming financial, physical, and emotional burdens. Texas law allows victims to seek several categories of damages to support recovery and restore stability.
Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs
You may recover the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. Compensation can also cover future treatment needs, including rehabilitation, mobility aids, or long-term medical care. These costs often represent the largest part of a pedestrian accident claim.
Lost Income and Diminished Future Earnings
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may seek damages for lost wages. In more serious cases, you may also pursue compensation for reduced earning capacity if you can no longer perform your job or must take a lower-paying role. These damages help ensure financial stability for you and your family during recovery.
Pain and Suffering Damages
Pedestrian accidents often result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, and a diminished ability to enjoy life. Pain and suffering damages account for the physical and personal hardships caused by your injuries. These damages recognize that recovery is not only about covering bills but also about addressing the real impact on your quality of life.
Mental Anguish and Counseling Needs
The trauma of being struck by a vehicle can leave lasting emotional scars. Victims may develop anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation can include the cost of counseling, therapy, and other mental health treatment needed to rebuild stability and confidence.
Wrongful Death Damages for Families
If a pedestrian accident results in death, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. These damages may cover funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship. Families deserve justice when negligence takes a loved one’s life, and wrongful death claims provide a path toward accountability.
Challenges Unique to Pedestrian Accident Claims
Pedestrian accident cases present unique challenges compared to other types of personal injury claims. One common issue is the lack of witnesses. Without independent accounts, insurers may dispute what happened or argue that the pedestrian was at fault.
Unclear intersection designs or poor lighting also complicate claims. It may be difficult to prove whether signals were functioning correctly or whether visibility was adequate. Additionally, drivers frequently deny responsibility, leaving victims to rely on physical evidence and crash reports.
Insurance companies take advantage of these uncertainties by pushing back aggressively. They may argue comparative fault or attempt to minimize damages. Having an experienced attorney who knows how to gather evidence, consult with experts, and counter insurer tactics is essential for overcoming these challenges.
How Patterson Law Group Builds Strong Pedestrian Claims
At Patterson Law Group, we understand the difficulties pedestrian accident victims face. Our approach combines thorough investigation, strong advocacy, and compassionate client care.
Collecting Crash Reports and Surveillance Footage
We obtain official crash reports from the Fort Worth Police Department and search for surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras. These records provide crucial evidence of how the crash occurred and who is responsible.
Interviewing Witnesses and Consulting Experts
Our team contacts witnesses quickly to preserve their statements while memories are fresh. We also consult with accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, and other professionals who can explain technical details and strengthen your case.
Documenting Medical and Financial Losses
We collect and organize medical records, bills, and proof of lost income. By presenting a clear and complete picture of your financial and physical losses, we strengthen negotiations with insurers and prepare for potential litigation.
Negotiating With Insurers and Preparing for Trial
Our firm handles all communication with insurance companies, pushing back against lowball offers and unreasonable delays. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures you are ready for court if necessary.
Why You Should Hire a Fort Worth Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Hiring an attorney provides significant advantages after a pedestrian accident. Lawyers protect your rights, manage complex legal and insurance processes, and reduce stress during recovery. They know how to maximize compensation by identifying all available sources of coverage and by countering insurer tactics designed to minimize payouts.
By choosing Patterson Law Group, you gain a partner who understands Fort Worth’s roads, courts, and community. We provide clear communication, practical support, and dedicated advocacy tailored to your case. Our goal is not only to secure compensation but also to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you and your family.
Speak With Fort Worth Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Today
Pedestrian accidents create enormous physical, emotional, and financial challenges. You do not have to face these obstacles alone. Patterson Law Group offers free consultations to help you understand your rights and options without risk.
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Fort Worth or Tarrant County, reach out today. Let our team fight for justice on your behalf and guide you toward recovery with clarity, strength, and compassion.
Pedestrian Accidents FAQs
Do pedestrians always have the right of way?
It’s a common myth that pedestrians always have the right of way. Pedestrians have the right of way while crossing controlled intersections and marked crosswalks. In any other circumstance, pedestrians must yield the right of way to vehicles.
Can I still earn compensation if I was injured walking out of a crosswalk or running across the street?
If you were injured doing something you shouldn’t have been doing, such as walking out of the crosswalk or running across a busy street, you will be considered partially at fault for the accident. When you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, you will receive compensation that is proportionate to the negligent driver’s share of the fault.
What if I was partially at fault for my pedestrian accident?
The amount of compensation you receive will be directly affected by the portion of fault attributed to you. If you are more than 50% responsible for the accident, you won’t be able to recover anything. If you are less than 50% responsible for the accident, you will receive a settlement proportionate to the negligent driver’s share of fault. For instance, if the other driver was found to be 72% responsible for the accident, you would receive 72% of your accident claim.
What are the most dangerous intersections for pedestrians in Fort Worth?
To ensure that pedestrians taking their dogs for a walk, going to work, or enjoying the fresh air get from Point A to Point B, we compiled the most accident-prone intersections into an interactive map. Click on the map to explore accidents by year and zoom in or out to see which intersections on your route(s) are at a greater risk for accidents.
