Pedestrian accidents have become more frequent in California in recent years. In 2022, 504 pedestrians in the Golden State lost their lives in collisions with vehicles, an almost 10% increase from 2019.
Additionally, California’s 2022 pedestrian fatality rate of 1.29 deaths per 100,000 people significantly surpassed the national average of 1.04. These statistics highlight the urgent need for pedestrian safety awareness and legal support for victims in our state.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Modesto, the team at Berg Injury Lawyers is here to fight for your rights. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families, and we’re committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Modesto
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents in Modesto often result from drivers’ negligence. Understanding common pedestrian accident causes not only is useful for safety and prevention, but also can help injured victims identify who’s responsible for their accidents.
Here are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Modesto:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who text, talk on the phone, eat, or engage in other activities that divert their attention from the road are a major threat to pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers who fail to stop at crosswalks or intersections or make turns without properly checking for pedestrians put pedestrians at risk.
- Speeding: Speeding reduces drivers’ reaction times and can increase the severity of pedestrian injuries in the event of an accident.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant danger to pedestrians due to their impaired judgment and reaction times.
While pedestrian accidents can happen due to various reasons, drivers always have a responsibility to exercise caution and prioritize the safety of pedestrians. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel to protect your rights and hold negligent drivers responsible.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe and life-altering injuries due to the vulnerability of pedestrians compared to those inside vehicles. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic trauma, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents:
- Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a collision can cause fractures in various parts of the body, including the legs, arms, ribs, pelvis, and skull. These injuries often require surgery, casts, and physical therapy for recovery.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs can result from the head striking the vehicle or the ground during the accident. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, with long-lasting effects on cognitive function and motor skills.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of impact can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and other debilitating conditions.
- Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding, organ damage, and other internal injuries can occur due to blunt force trauma sustained in a pedestrian accident. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, lacerations, and other soft tissue injuries are common in pedestrian accidents. These injuries can cause significant pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
The physical and emotional toll of these injuries can be immense, impacting not only the victim but also their families and loved ones. Pedestrian accident victims should seek medical attention immediately. Then, they should consult with an experienced attorney to pursue compensation for their medical expenses and other losses.
Compensation for Pedestrian Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. These damages aim to cover the financial, physical, and emotional toll you’ve suffered due to the accident. Here are the types of compensation you might be able to seek:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care you may need due to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income during your recovery period.
- Loss of Future Earning Capacity: If your injuries are severe and have a long-term impact on your ability to work, you may be able to recover damages for the potential income you’ll lose in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensation aims to address the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the accident and your injuries.
- Property Damage: If your personal property was damaged in the accident, such as any items you were wearing or carrying, you can also seek reimbursement for those losses.
Seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident can be a complex process, but a Modesto pedestrian accident attorney can help you calculate your losses and maximize your potential recovery.
Reach Out to Berg Injury Lawyers
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies trying to lowball or blame you. Hiring a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can make a significant difference in your recovery process and the outcome of your case.
Berg Injury Lawyers has the resources and experience to investigate your accident thoroughly, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with experts to build a strong case on your behalf. We can also handle all communication with insurance companies, negotiate settlements, and protect you from being taken advantage of.
After a pedestrian accident in Modesto, contact Berg Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. Our No Fee Guarantee® promises that if you don’t win, you pay us nothing. Let us fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
