Pedestrians are extremely vulnerable during an accident. Being struck by a bicycle, motorcycle, car, or truck can lead to serious injuries and fatalities.
At Patterson Law Group, our experienced Fort Worth pedestrian accident attorneys understand the impact these accidents can have on victims and their families. We can help investigate the cause of your accident and ensure the at-fault party is held accountable.
Contact our office for a risk-free consultation if you need legal assistance after a Fort Worth pedestrian accident.
The Impact and Prevalence of Fort Worth Pedestrian Accidents
According to several government entities, Fort Worth has relatively safe roads. Based on Texas’s overall population, it has fewer accidents and fatalities than it should. The city was listed as one of America’s most bike-friendly cities in 2021.
However, “safe” doesn’t mean there are no accidents. In 2022, the city had more than 13,400 accidents, with 7,000 cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists losing their lives.
Pedestrian accidents in the 10 years between 2013 and 2023 have led to more than 5,700 people being injured or killed in Fort Worth.
As you can see, these incidents can take a huge toll on victims and their families. They may leave the injured party unable to work and deal with significant medical bills and other accident-related costs.
Pedestrian Rights in Fort Worth, Texas
We understand the importance of ensuring pedestrians are safe and protected while navigating our city streets. From crosswalks to sidewalks, pedestrians have specific rights under Texas law, and knowing these rights is essential to protect them.
Learn about pedestrian rights in Fort Worth, Texas, here:
Texas Pedestrian Laws
The Texas Transportation Code, Title 7, Chapter 552, outlines the rights and duties of pedestrians and Title 7, Chapter 552.003 addresses pedestrians’ right-of-way in crosswalks.
Under Texas law:
- Pedestrians’ Right-of-Way in Crosswalks: According to Texas Transportation Code § 552.003, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections, with few exceptions.
- Use of Sidewalks: Pedestrians are generally required to use sidewalks if provided. If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians must walk on the left side of the roadway, facing oncoming traffic.
- Yielding to Pedestrians: Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections, as stated in Texas Transportation Code § 552.002.
Common Pedestrian Accident Causes in Fort Worth
Walking should be a safe and enjoyable activity, but unfortunately, pedestrians in Fort Worth often face hazards on our roads. Various factors contribute to pedestrian accidents, from busy crosswalks to quiet parking lots.
Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Crosswalk Accidents
Crosswalks are intended to provide pedestrians with a designated path across busy streets, yet they remain a hotspot for accidents. Whether due to distracted driving, failure to yield, or speeding, many motorists fail to respect the right of way of pedestrians at crosswalks, leading to devastating collisions.
Cars Backing into Someone
Parking lots may seem relatively low-risk for pedestrians, but the reverse movement of vehicles poses a significant threat. Drivers backing out of parking spaces often have limited visibility, increasing the risk of striking unsuspecting pedestrians walking behind or between parked cars.
Individuals Hit in Parking Lots
Navigating parking lots can be hazardous for pedestrians, particularly in crowded areas such as shopping centers or office complexes. With numerous vehicles maneuvering in tight spaces, pedestrians are vulnerable to being hit by cars pulling into or out of parking spaces.
Vehicles Turning Right on Red
Right turns on red can catch pedestrians off guard, especially when drivers fail to check for individuals crossing the street. Pedestrians legally crossing on a green light may find themselves in harm’s way when motorists fail to yield while making a right turn on red.
Buses Hitting Pedestrians
Public transportation plays a vital role in our community, but buses can also pose a risk to pedestrians. Whether due to blind spots, driver error, or pedestrian negligence, bus-related accidents can result in severe injuries or fatalities for those on foot.
Accidents at Stop Signs
Stop signs are meant to regulate traffic flow and protect pedestrians, but accidents still occur at these intersections. Whether due to rolling stops, failure to yield, or confusion among drivers and pedestrians, collisions at stop signs can have dire consequences.
Injuries Seen in Pedestrian Accidents
We have seen the devastating injuries that can occur in pedestrian accidents. They often lead to severe physical and emotional trauma for the victims. Here are some of the most common injuries we encounter:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to TBIs due to the potential for direct impact to the head during a collision. Even at low speeds, the force of a vehicle can cause concussions, contusions, or more severe brain injuries, leading to long-term cognitive impairments and disabilities.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The spine is susceptible to damage in pedestrian accidents, resulting in spinal cord injuries that can cause partial or complete paralysis. These life-altering injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care to manage the physical limitations and associated complications.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The impact of a vehicle can exert tremendous force on the human body, resulting in fractures or breaks to the bones of the arms, legs, hips, and pelvis. These injuries can be excruciatingly painful and may require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the affected bones properly.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Pedestrians may suffer from various soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can cause significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility, often requiring physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength and function.
Emotional Trauma and PTSD
In addition to physical injuries, pedestrian accidents can also leave lasting emotional scars on the victims. The psychological impact of such traumatic events can manifest as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), affecting the victim’s overall quality of life and ability to cope with daily challenges.
At our firm, we understand the complex nature of pedestrian accident injuries and the profound impact they can have on the lives of our clients. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, our attorneys are here to provide compassionate support and aggressive representation to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
How We Help Prove Liability in Fort Worth Pedestrian Accidents
As your Fort Worth pedestrian accident attorney, we will help our clients determine liability and hold all responsible parties accountable for their actions. Proving liability in pedestrian accidents requires a careful investigation, expert legal analysis, and strong evidence to support our client’s claims.
Here’s how we assist our clients in proving liability:
The Initial Investigation
We investigate the circumstances surrounding the pedestrian accident, gathering evidence including:
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Surveillance footage
- Accident reconstruction data
This approach allows us to piece together the sequence of events leading up to the accident and identify the negligent party responsible for harming our client.
Legal Expertise
With our extensive knowledge of Texas traffic laws and pedestrian rights, we provide expert legal guidance to our clients throughout the claims process. We review the accident details to determine if any traffic violations or negligence on the driver’s part contributed to the collision.
Whether it involves proving failure to yield, speeding, distracted driving, or other forms of negligence, we leverage our legal expertise to build a strong case for our clients.
Collection of Evidence
We work to collect and preserve crucial evidence that supports our clients’ claims of liability. This may include obtaining medical records, documenting the extent of our client’s injuries, and gathering evidence of the driver’s negligence, such as cell phone records or eyewitness testimony. We present evidence of the driver’s fault to strengthen our client’s position in negotiations with insurance companies or court proceedings.
Expert Witness Testimony
In complex pedestrian accident cases, we may rely on the expertise of accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals to provide expert witness testimony. These professionals can offer valuable insights into the cause of the accident, the severity of our clients’ injuries, and the long-term impact on their lives. Expert witness testimony adds credibility to our client’s claims and can significantly influence the outcome of their case.
Aggressive Advocacy
As advocates for pedestrian accident victims, we are committed to fighting tirelessly on behalf of our clients to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Whether through negotiated settlements or courtroom litigation, we are prepared to pursue maximum compensation for our client’s medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
We understand the challenges faced by pedestrian accident victims and their families, and we are here to provide the support and legal representation they need to seek justice. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Fort Worth, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We are ready to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group for Help with Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Fort Worth, Texas, you need a lawyer to help guide you through the complexities of your claim and ensure that your rights are protected. At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to providing compassionate support, expert legal guidance, and aggressive representation to pedestrian accident victims and their families.
Here are several compelling reasons why you should choose us to help with your pedestrian accident claim:
Experience and Expertise
With years of experience handling pedestrian accident cases in Fort Worth, our legal team possesses the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to navigate the intricacies of your claim successfully. We have a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients and are well-versed in Texas pedestrian laws and insurance practices.
Personalized Attention
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that every pedestrian accident case is unique, and we approach each client with the individualized attention and care they deserve. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, you can count on us to be responsive, communicative, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Thorough Investigation
We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for pedestrian accident victims. Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts to build a compelling case on your behalf. We review police reports, medical records, and other relevant documentation to strengthen your claim.
Aggressive Advocacy
When it comes to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve, we don’t back down from a fight. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and litigators who will aggressively advocate for your interests every step of the way. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, we will pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Compassionate Support
We understand that being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. That’s why we provide compassionate support and guidance to our clients throughout the claims process. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide reassurance during this difficult time. You can trust us to prioritize your well-being and advocate tirelessly on your behalf.
Proven Results
Our firm has a track record of success in securing substantial settlements and verdicts for pedestrian accident victims. While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, our proven track record demonstrates our commitment to achieving favorable results for our clients. You can have confidence in our ability to represent your interests and pursue the compensation you deserve.
No Upfront Fees
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that dealing with the financial aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be challenging. That’s why we offer our services on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any upfront fees or out-of-pocket expenses. We only get paid if we secure compensation on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery without added financial stress.
Patterson Law Group Can Help with Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
Our Fort Worth pedestrian accident lawyers the impact of these incidents. We can help you seek justice and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact our office for a risk-free consultation today.
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.
