Surprise Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accident laws in Surprise, Arizona, are designed to protect you.

Knowing these laws can help you if you’re ever involved in such an accident.

Statute of Limitations: You have two years to file a lawsuit for personal injuries in Arizona. If you miss this deadline, you might lose your right to seek compensation.

Pedestrians have the right-of-way at crosswalks, including both marked and unmarked ones. Drivers must yield to you when you are on these crossings.

Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule. This means if you are partly at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Distracted driving is a serious issue.

Arizona bans texting while driving. If a driver hits you while texting, they could be held responsible for the damages.

If a driver flees the scene, it’s considered a hit-and-run, which is a criminal act. You can still pursue a claim against the driver once they are found.

Sometimes, government entities might be liable for accidents due to poor road conditions or faulty traffic signals.

Special rules apply, and the deadline to file a claim against them is shorter.

Being aware of these laws can empower you and help you understand your rights if you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Surprise, AZ.

 

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Surprise

Pedestrian accidents in Surprise, Arizona often occur due to specific factors.

These include incidents in crosswalks and jaywalking-related collisions.

Crosswalk Incidents

Accidents in crosswalks are common in Surprise. Drivers sometimes fail to yield to pedestrians, ignoring traffic lights or signs.

Distracted driving is another major reason. When drivers focus on their phones or other distractions, they might not see pedestrians in time.

Poor visibility can also play a role. Crosswalks without adequate lighting make it hard for drivers to spot people crossing.

Speeding is another factor that increases the risk. Faster cars have less time to react to pedestrians.

Other factors include improper turning and failing to check blind spots.

These actions can surprise pedestrians, leading to dangerous situations.

Jaywalking-Related Collisions

Jaywalking involves crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks. This risky behavior leads to many accidents.

Drivers don’t expect pedestrians to appear suddenly, making it hard to react in time.

Speeding increases the danger, as fast-moving vehicles might not stop quickly enough.

Peripheral vision limitations also impact a driver’s ability to notice someone jaywalking.

Environmental factors like poor lighting or bad weather can further reduce visibility, increasing the risk.

Rural roads around Surprise with higher speed limits often see more jaywalking incidents. Pedestrians underestimate the speed and distance of oncoming traffic, leading to collisions.

 

Dangerous Roads and Intersections

Pedestrian safety is a big concern in Surprise, Arizona.

Several areas are known to be more dangerous than others.

Waddell Road
Waddell Road is busy with a lot of traffic and has few crosswalks. This makes it risky for pedestrians.

Bell Road
Bell Road sees high traffic volumes and speeding vehicles. Pedestrian crosswalks are limited, increasing the risk of accidents.

Greenway Road
Greenway Road has many intersections and few pedestrian signals, making it dangerous for those crossing on foot.

Intersections to Watch:

• Greenway Rd & Litchfield Rd: Known for heavy traffic, this intersection lacks proper pedestrian signals.
• Bell Rd & Dysart Rd: Always crowded and has a history of accidents involving pedestrians.
• Waddell Rd & Reems Rd: Fast-moving cars and minimal crosswalks make this a dangerous spot.

Safety Tips:

• Always use designated crosswalks.
• Be extra cautious at intersections.
• Wear bright clothing at night for visibility.

Knowing these danger zones can help you stay safe while walking in Surprise, AZ.

Intersections in Arizona can be dangerous, and even deadly.

Hiring a quality personal injury lawyer in Surprise Arizona can make or break your lawsuit.  Call The Law Gang Today.

 

Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents in Surprise, Arizona can result in various injuries, ranging from physical traumas like broken bones and cuts to serious head injuries.

Physical Traumas

Physical traumas are common in pedestrian accidents. These injuries can include broken bones, cuts, and bruises.

Broken bones can range from minor fractures to severe breaks that require surgery. Cuts and bruises are often caused by the impact of the vehicle or the road.

Broken Bones:

• Arms and legs are most commonly affected.
• May need casting, surgery, or extensive rehabilitation.

Cuts and Bruises:

• Can lead to infections if not treated properly.
• May require stitches or other medical procedures.

Neck and back injuries are also frequent.

These can range from mild strains to serious spinal cord damage.

 

Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head injuries are serious and can have long-term effects.

Concussions occur when the brain is jolted inside the skull due to the impact.

Symptoms might include headaches, dizziness, and memory issues.

Concussions:

• Can range from mild to severe.
• Often require rest and medical supervision.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs):

• More severe than concussions.
• May cause long-term cognitive issues or even permanent disability.

Facial injuries are also possible in pedestrian accidents.

These can include fractures to the skull or jaw, and might need reconstructive surgery.

 

 

Hire Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Surprise

Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer in Surprise, Arizona can be crucial in helping you receive fair compensation.

Key aspects include how they handle payment and how they gather evidence to support your case.

Contingency Payment Explained

Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis.

This means you only pay if you win your case. Your lawyer will take a percentage of your settlement or court award as their fee.

This approach removes the need for upfront costs and ensures your lawyer is motivated to win or secure a favorable settlement.

Contingency fees typically range from 25% to 40% of your awarded amount. It is essential to discuss and understand the specific terms before hiring the lawyer.

This fee structure benefits those who might not afford legal services otherwise, leveling the playing field.

Collecting and Utilizing Evidence

Gathering evidence is a critical role of your pedestrian accident lawyer. Lawyers collect various types of evidence to build a strong case.

Traffic camera footage, for example, can show the accident’s details.

This footage might be obtained from the city or nearby businesses.

Witness statements are also valuable. They provide firsthand accounts of the accident. Lawyers will interview witnesses, collect their testimonies, and use these accounts to support your claims.

Medical records can demonstrate the extent of your injuries. Your lawyer will work to obtain these records and include them in your case file

. By combining different types of evidence, your lawyer establishes liability and works to maximize your compensation.

 

Navigating Insurance and Compensation Claims

When you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Surprise, Arizona, handling insurance and getting compensation can be a complex process.

You’ll need to communicate with insurers and manage medical expenses to ensure you receive what you are entitled to.

Communicating with Insurers

When dealing with insurance companies, be prepared for them to try and minimize payouts. You should avoid giving any recorded statements without consulting your lawyer.

Insurance adjusters may use your words against you to reduce liability. Always be cautious and stick to the facts.

Document everything. Keep records of all communications, including emails and letters. This can be crucial if disputes arise later. Additionally, do not accept initial settlement offers without consulting your attorney as these are often much lower than what you are entitled to.

 

Medical Expenses and Compensation

In a pedestrian accident, medical bills can pile up quickly. You need compensation to cover these costs and any future related expenses.

Your lawyer will help you document all medical treatments received and ensure these are included in your compensation claim.

Compile all medical records and bills, including surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.

Also, keep receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries.

This comprehensive documentation will be necessary to obtain the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Remember, you are entitled to compensation not just for immediate expenses, but also for long-term rehabilitation and lost wages if you are unable to work.

Your lawyer from Surprise, Arizona, will assist in making sure nothing is overlooked in your claim.

 

Steps After a Pedestrian Accident

First, call 911. Getting police and medical help on the scene fast is very important. This ensures you get the help you need and official reports are made.

Next, get medical treatment immediately. Even if you feel fine, some injuries aren’t noticeable right away. A doctor can check for hidden injuries and provide necessary treatment.

If you can, collect evidence at the scene.

Take pictures of the accident location, vehicles, and any visible injuries. This can be crucial for any claims you may need to make later.

Exchange information with the driver and any witnesses. Get names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details. This helps in following up and reporting later.

Avoid making statements about who is at fault. Stick to the facts when talking to the police and others.

Be careful with your words to make sure nothing can be used against you.

Finally, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer. They can help you understand your rights, navigate insurance claims, and represent you if needed.

This can make a big difference in your recovery and ability to receive compensation.