Conroe Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can have severe consequences, often resulting in serious injuries and emotional distress. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Conroe, the experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law are here to provide the legal assistance you need during this challenging time.

Pedestrian vs. Driver Responsibilities in Texas

Don’t pedestrians always have the right of way? Not necessarily.

Per the Texas Transportation Code §552.003, pedestrians have the right of way in a crosswalk when the “Walk” signal is on. When the “Don’t Walk” signal is on, pedestrians legally cannot start crossing, and those already in the crosswalk should finish crossing immediately.

What about Intersections Without Crosswalks?

Per Texas Transportation Code §552.005, pedestrians must yield to vehicles on the roadway when crossing at a place other than a marked crosswalk or at an intersection that lacks traffic control signals.

On the other hand, the driver must yield if a pedestrian is crossing at an intersection without traffic control signals.

What Responsibilities Do Drivers Have?

Per Texas Transportation Code §552.008, drivers must exercise caution to avoid accidents with pedestrians. For example, they should warn pedestrians by honking their horns and be extra careful when they observe a child or a confused/incapacitated person on a roadway.

Common Pedestrian Accident Causes

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, including the following:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who are distracted by texting, talking on the phone, or other activities may not notice pedestrians or may have delayed reactions.
• Impaired driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can interfere with a driver’s judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Reckless driving: Aggressive or reckless driving behaviors, such as running red lights, tailgating, and weaving in and out of traffic, pose a significant risk to pedestrians.
• Speeding: High vehicle speeds reduce driver reaction time and increase the severity of pedestrian injuries in case of a collision.
• Failure to yield: Drivers may fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, or other areas where they have the right of way.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accident injuries are rarely mild. Even a car moving at a slow speed can cause significant damage. The following are some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries and consequences:

• Soft tissue injuries: These include sprains, strains, contusions, and other injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries are common in pedestrian accidents, even at lower speeds.
• Fractures and broken bones: Pedestrians can suffer fractures or broken bones, particularly in the limbs, pelvis, or spine, as a result of the impact with a vehicle or the ground.
• Head injuries: Head injuries can range from mild concussions to serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even at low speeds, colliding with a vehicle can cause head injuries, especially if the pedestrian hits their head on the ground or a hard surface.
• Back and spinal cord injuries: The impact of a collision can cause injuries to the back or spinal cord, leading to varying degrees of paralysis or impairment.
• Internal injuries: The force of the impact can cause internal organ injuries, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Facial injuries: Facial injuries, including lacerations, fractures, and damage to the eyes or teeth, can occur if a pedestrian’s face makes contact with the vehicle or the ground.
• Amputations: In severe cases, a pedestrian may suffer traumatic injuries that necessitate amputation of a limb.
• Psychological injuries: The emotional trauma of a pedestrian accident can result in psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.
• Death: Unfortunately, some pedestrian accidents result in fatalities, mainly when the impact is severe or involves high-speed collisions.

What to Do if You’re Involved in a Pedestrian Accident

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. Still, it’s essential to stay calm and take specific steps to ensure your safety and the well-being of others. If you’re a pedestrian involved in an accident, here’s what you should do:

• Take safety seriously: Move to a safe location away from traffic and potential hazards. Check yourself for injuries and assess your ability to move.
• Call for help: Dial 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance.
• Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the involved driver(s). Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses as well.
• Document the scene: Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, including the location, vehicle damage, and relevant road signs/signals. Note the time, date, and weather conditions, too.
• Do not admit fault: Don’t admit fault or make statements that someone could interpret as admissions of fault.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t believe your injuries are severe, seek prompt medical attention, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Follow medical advice and keep records of your treatment and expenses.
• Contact law enforcement: Report the incident to the police and give them a detailed account of what happened. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
• Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details and any documentation you have gathered.
• Consult with an attorney: If you’ve suffered injuries, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney. They can provide guidance on legal options and help protect your rights.
• Preserve evidence: Keep any evidence related to the accident, including medical records, photos, witness statements, and communications with the involved parties or their insurance companies.
• Focus on your recovery: Attend all medical appointments and follow the recommended treatment plan. Keep records of medical bills, prescription receipts, and other expenses related to your recovery.

When Should You Hire a Conroe Pedestrian Lawyer?

Consulting a pedestrian accident lawyer is recommended in most situations, especially when the accident results in serious injuries requiring medical treatment. Here are some examples of when you should consider hiring a Conroe pedestrian accident lawyer:

You’ve Suffered Serious Injuries

Suppose you’ve suffered severe injuries, such as fractures, head trauma, or a spinal cord injury. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation.

A Loved One Experienced a Wrongful Death

If a pedestrian accident caused the death of a loved one, hiring a lawyer can help surviving family members pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages.

There Are Liability Disputes

When there is a dispute regarding who was at fault for the accident or whether or not the driver was negligent, a lawyer can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and present a solid case to establish liability.

There Are Insurance Disputes

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they deny or undervalue your claim. A lawyer can negotiate with insurers on your behalf and advocate for your rights.

You’re Dealing with Complex Legal Issues

If the pedestrian accident involves complex legal issues, such as multiple parties, government entities, or issues related to product liability, an experienced lawyer can navigate these complexities.

The Driver Is Under or Uninsured

If the driver responsible for the accident is uninsured or underinsured, or if you were involved in a hit-and-run, a lawyer can help you explore options like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to seek compensation.

You’ve Lost Income

If the accident resulted in lost wages or the inability to return to work, a lawyer can help you pursue compensation for both current and future lost income.

You Need Long-Term Medical Care

If your injuries require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, or long-term care, a lawyer can help you seek compensation for these future expenses.

You Need Help Negotiating a Settlement

A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair and reasonable settlement that covers your current and future expenses.

You’re Approaching Legal Deadlines

There are legal deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. For example, you typically have two years to file a lawsuit for a pedestrian accident in Texas. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation. A lawyer can ensure that you meet all applicable deadlines. (*Always speak directly to an attorney for the exact deadlines that apply to your potential claims).

How Can Conroe Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help You?

The Conroe pedestrian accident lawyers at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law have decades of experience helping pedestrian accident victims navigate the legal landscape and get compensated fairly for their injuries.

We have helped Texas injury victims since 1985. Our team is trusted and respected throughout the Houston area and is known for delivering significant results for our clients.

We also offer a no-fee guarantee. That means that if you don’t win your case, you won’t pay.

Meet with a Conroe Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

Are you ready to partner with the pedestrian accident lawyers at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law? If so, get in touch today for a free and confidential consultation. You can call us now at (713) 973-8888 or toll-free 1 (800) 444-5000.