Mooresville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Mooresville Pedestrian Accident Attorney

The population of North Carolina is growing rapidly, especially in urban areas. This means that city streets are becoming increasingly dense with drivers and pedestrians alike. As a result, there has been a steady increase in pedestrian accidents, resulting in more injuries and deaths. If you have been involved in an accident with a vehicle as a pedestrian, it may be helpful to contact a Mooresville pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your options and potentially file a claim.

Why Choose The Law Office of William T. Corbett, Jr., P.L.L.C.?

If you’ve been hit by a car or truck as a pedestrian, then you understand how scary the experience can be. It can be difficult to negotiate with insurance companies while trying to return to normal after an injury. Hiring an attorney can help you navigate this complicated process.

Our firm has been serving the Mooresville, NC, area for over 30 years. A seasoned personal injury attorney can help you work with insurance companies while you recover from your injury.

How to Avoid Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can be avoided in many cases. Here are some key things to remember when you’re on the road.

As a Pedestrian:

• Maintain awareness. Avoid distractions like using your phone or getting too engrossed in chatter with your friends. It’s important to keep a watchful eye on the road and any cars in your vicinity to prevent crossing their path.
• Carry a light. If you need to walk at night, it’s a good idea to wear bright and reflective clothing so that cars can see you. Try walking in areas that are well-lit, and consider bringing a flashlight.
• Walk and cross in safe places. Stay on as many sidewalks as possible. If a sidewalk is unavailable, walk on the side of the road that faces traffic and stay as close to the right edge as possible. If you have to cross without a crosswalk, do so when you have a good view of oncoming traffic.

As a Driver:

• Maintain awareness. Drivers need to be aware of their surroundings, just like pedestrians. Avoid texting while driving or driving under the influence. A large amount of pedestrian accidents involve a distracted driver, pedestrian, or both.
• Drive slowly. The speed of a vehicle when it hits a pedestrian can determine whether the victim lives or dies. Follow posted speed limits and drive slowly when there are a lot of pedestrians on the road.
• Look frequently. Always look for pedestrians, especially before making a turn or while backing out of a parking spot or driveway. Be especially careful while driving at night.

What to Do After an Accident

If you get in an accident with a vehicle as a pedestrian, here are some important steps to take while at the scene. These can help you build a future claim:

1. Move to a safe place. This should be away from traffic.
2. Assess your injuries, and call 911 if necessary.
3. Document as much of the scene as possible, including:
   • Your injuries
   • The scene of the accident
   • Any property or vehicle damage
4. Once emergency services arrive, file a report with the police department.
5. Gather the contact and insurance information of others involved in the crash.
6. Do not apologize or claim that the accident was your fault. This can be determined after the accident, and an admission of blame can give an insurance company evidence to reject your claim.
7. Once you have an attorney, let them contact your insurance company to update them on the accident.

Why Do I Need a Lawyer?

Insurance companies can be difficult to deal with on your own. They benefit from paying out as little as possible for your accident injuries. A personal injury attorney knows how to mediate between you and the insurance company to deliver a settlement that works in your favor.

If you have a loved one who was killed due to a pedestrian accident, an attorney can help you recover damages for funeral costs and medical expenses, among others. Instead of taking on such a large burden alone, working with an accomplished attorney can help you focus on your family during a dark time.

FAQs About Mooresville, NC Pedestrian Accident Laws

Where Do the Majority of Pedestrian Fatalities Occur?

There has been a recent increase in pedestrian deaths in North Carolina, especially in urban areas like Raleigh, Asheville, and Mooresville. Most fatalities occur after dark when it is difficult to see someone walking along the road. Accidents on busy local roads are most common, followed by accidents on state highways. Most accidents occur away from intersections, and many accidents involve either a pedestrian or a driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way in North Carolina?

It depends on the circumstances. If a lighted crosswalk sign tells a pedestrian they can safely cross by giving the white “walk” image, then they have the right of way. If the sign is showing the orange “stop” image, then they do not have the right of way. Pedestrians do not have the right of way on roads without crosswalks, but they do if they’re crossing in front of the driveway of a home or business.

Do You Have to Stop for Pedestrians in North Carolina?

If a pedestrian is crossing a marked crosswalk that has the white “walk” sign, then a driver must stop. If the pedestrian is at a crosswalk in the middle of a city block that does not have a traffic signal, then the driver must yield to them at all times. If a pedestrian is in danger of crossing your path and you have the green light, honk your horn to give them a warning and be prepared to stop.

Is North Carolina a No-Fault State for Accidents?

No. North Carolina is an at-fault state. This means that if someone is injured in a pedestrian accident, they can attempt to receive compensation from the insurance agency of the person who hit them. Working with an injury lawyer can prevent an insurance company from ignoring or denying your claim.

Tell Your Story

If you or a loved one was a victim of a pedestrian accident in Mooresville, it’s important to know what your options are. Schedule an appointment with The Law Office of William T. Corbett, Jr., P.L.L.C., to review the specifics of the situation and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.