Pedestrian Accident Straight Talk Is Good Business

Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Victoria

Pursuing Compensation for Injured Pedestrians & Their Families in Texas

Pedestrians are constantly at risk of being struck by a vehicle, whether they are on the sidewalk or in the crosswalk. The CDC found that almost 137,000 pedestrians required emergency medical attention in 2017. According to the NHTSA, in 2018, over 6,200 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents in the United States.

Despite continual public service measures calling for safer driving and better pedestrian awareness, thousands of pedestrians are killed each year. If you have been injured as a pedestrian in Victoria, our pedestrian accident attorneys at Cole, Cole, Easley & Sciba, P.C. can help you get the financial compensation you deserve.

To find out how we can help you file a pedestrian accident lawsuit, contact our legal team today at (361) 678-3233.

Understanding Your Rights as a Pedestrian

If You Were Hit By a Car As a Pedestrian, You May Be Entitled to Compensation

Being struck by a moving vehicle can cause significant injuries, including broken bones, sprained muscles and ligaments, neck and head trauma, bruises, and lacerations. These injuries will often require medical attention and time off work to recover. While you are healing, it's important that you have the financial assistance you need. By helping you hold those at-fault accountable, our Victoria pedestrian accident attorneys can ensure that you are taken care of.

In many cases, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts or dispute claims altogether. It's crucial to have experienced legal representation to navigate these challenges and ensure your rights are protected. Our team is adept at negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, escalating cases to court to secure the compensation you deserve. We handle each case with dedication, providing personalized attention to detail for every client in Victoria.

Types of Pedestrian Accidents We Handle

We provide legal representation for pedestrians involved in the following types of accidents:

Drivers running through intersections
Failure to yield at crosswalks
Pedestrians getting hit by a car in the crosswalk
Drivers running red lights
Parking lot accidents
Distracted drivers and drunk drivers

Where Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur?

According to 2019 data reported by the NHTSA, the majority of pedestrian accidents occurred in the following locations:

Urban settings
On the open road
Intersections

The majority of pedestrian accidents also occur in the evenings or at nightfall, typically on weekdays, rather than on weekends. Understanding the patterns of these accidents can be beneficial in both prevention and in constructing a robust legal case. By analyzing factors such as lighting conditions and traffic flow, our attorneys can better demonstrate the circumstances that led to an accident. This strategic approach helps in attributing liability more clearly and can be pivotal in securing favorable outcomes for victims seeking justice.

Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents

Common injuries include:

Head and Brain Injuries: Pedestrians who are struck by vehicles frequently suffer from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, impacting the victim's ability to move and function independently.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Pedestrians are vulnerable to broken bones and fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, and pelvis. These injuries often require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries: The impact of a collision can cause internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments are common in pedestrian accidents. While these injuries might not be as immediately visible as fractures or internal injuries, they can result in chronic pain and long-term mobility problems.
Road Rash and Skin Abrasions: When thrown or dragged along the ground, pedestrians can suffer from severe skin abrasions and road rash, which may require skin grafts and extensive wound care.

Addressing these injuries quickly and effectively is essential not only for the recovery process but also for ensuring a strong legal case. Comprehensive medical documentation can support your claim, demonstrating the true extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. Our firm collaborates closely with medical professionals to ensure that your health and legal needs are comprehensively met.

What Damages Could be Recovered in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?

Potential damages may include:

Medical Expenses: This includes reimbursement for all past and future medical costs related to the accident, like emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, prescription medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
Lost Wages: If the pedestrian is unable to work due to their injuries, they may claim compensation for lost income. This also includes potential future earnings if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional suffering is often awarded to reflect the distress and discomfort endured by the victim.
Loss of Quality of Life: Severe injuries may significantly impact a victim's ability to engage in everyday activities or enjoy previously loved hobbies. Damages may be awarded for the loss of enjoyment of life.
Property Damage: If personal property, like clothing or a mobile device, was damaged in the accident, compensation for these losses may be sought.
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident results in permanent disabilities or disfigurements, additional compensation may be granted to account for the long-term impact on the victim's life.
Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where a pedestrian accident results in death, surviving family members may pursue damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.

When evaluating damages, it's crucial to consider all aspects of how the accident has influenced a victim's life and potential future. Our attorneys take a holistic approach, examining not only the immediate financial implications but also the long-term emotional and psychological impacts. By thoroughly assessing each client's unique situation, we aim to maximize the recovery available under law, ensuring that justice is served.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims

The CDC found that pedestrians were 1.5 times more likely than drivers and passengers to be killed during an auto accident. If a loved one's death was directly caused by an auto accident, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Our experienced attorneys can help provide you with the legal counsel you need during this difficult time by helping you file a wrongful death claim on behalf of your lost loved one and their surviving family members.

Wrongful death claims require sensitivity and diligence, as they involve navigating complex legal territory while grieving. Our supportive legal team in Victoria is committed to offering guidance with compassion, ensuring that your family's rights are defended and the memory of your loved one is honored. We work diligently to hold those responsible accountable, seeking the compensation needed to cover expenses and provide some solace in the face of loss.

Our Legal Services for Pedestrian Accidents in Victoria, Texas

In Victoria, pedestrian safety is a growing concern, especially in busy areas like the downtown district and near local schools. With the city's increasing traffic and the number of pedestrians on the streets, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. The City of Victoria has implemented various traffic safety measures, but the reality is that pedestrians still face significant risks. Local government resources, such as the City of Victoria's website, provide information on pedestrian safety initiatives and traffic regulations that aim to protect residents and visitors alike.

Common pain points for pedestrians in Victoria include poorly marked crosswalks, distracted drivers, and the lack of adequate sidewalks in certain neighborhoods. These issues can lead to dangerous situations for those on foot, particularly in high-traffic areas like Navarro Street and near the Victoria Mall. Our team understands the unique challenges faced by pedestrians in this community and is dedicated to helping those injured in accidents navigate the complexities of their claims.

Whether you were struck while crossing the street at a busy intersection or while walking in a parking lot, our attorneys can assist you. We recognize that pedestrian accidents can lead to not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial burdens. By working with local resources and understanding the specific traffic patterns and safety concerns in Victoria, we can provide tailored support to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Our proactive approach involves collaborating with local authorities and traffic experts to understand the specifics of your case. We use this information to build powerful arguments, whether negotiating settlements or advocating for your rights in court. This level of personalization in legal services distinguishes us, ensuring that each client receives not only expert legal guidance but also peace of mind during a demanding time.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics in Victoria, TX

Understanding local accident trends is crucial for raising awareness and prevention. According to recent statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation, pedestrian accidents in Victoria have seen slight increases in line with state trends. Contributing factors include distracted driving, increased traffic volume, and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure. These insights highlight the need for increased vigilance and improved safety measures to protect pedestrians.

At Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C., we use this data to better inform our cases, emphasizing specific conditions and causative factors prevalent in Victoria when presenting claims. By doing so, we not only aim to secure fair compensation for our clients but also advocate for broader changes to enhance public safety in the community.

How Our Legal Process Works for Pedestrian Accident Cases

Our process begins with an initial consultation where we evaluate the details of the accident and advise you on the potential legal avenues available. We gather comprehensive evidence, which includes accident reports, eyewitness accounts, and expert testimonies to construct a compelling case. Our attorneys engage proactively with insurance companies to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and financial losses.

Should a settlement not be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our experienced litigators will represent you diligently, leveraging our in-depth knowledge of pedestrian laws in Texas to advocate for your best interests. We maintain transparent communication throughout the process, ensuring you are informed and comfortable with every step we take together.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, your immediate priority should be your safety and health. Move to a safe location if possible and seek medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor. It is important to document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. Report the accident to local law enforcement to ensure an official record is created. Promptly consulting with a reputable pedestrian accident attorney, like those at Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C., can help protect your rights and set the stage for any legal action needed.

How Long Do I Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is critical to file a claim within this timeframe to ensure your right to seek compensation is not forfeited. However, various factors could affect this timeline, such as the involvement of a government entity. Consulting legal counsel at Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C. early in the process ensures that you understand the deadlines applicable to your specific case, giving you the best chance to secure the compensation you deserve.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Under Texas law, pedestrian accident claims operate under a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages if you were partially at fault, provided your responsibility is less than 51%. However, any award you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Our legal team at Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C. can help assess your case, determine fault allocation, and build a strategy tailored to mitigate your level of responsibility while emphasizing where the true liability lies.

Don't hesitate to contact our Victoria pedestrian accident team today. Dial (361) 678-3233 to begin.

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At Cole, Cole, Easley, & Sciba, P.C., your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

“I highly recommend them.”
This firm is truly amazing. Every individual I came into contact with went above and beyond. Each person provided a caring and personal experience during a very difficult time. I highly recommend them.

Holly H.
“I was impressed with Jim's guidance and support.”
Jim has provided legal counsel for me in several situations. I felt well-represented in a very professional way. The most difficult one was when I broke my neck in a car wreck. The insurance of the responsible party did not want to pay anything close to the amount I felt they owed. Jim led me through the process. It was a difficult case, but we settled during negotiations. I was impressed with Jim's guidance and support, and I was very pleased with the settlement. He is a great attorney!

Cheryl O.
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No one ever wants a need for an attorney, but if you do, I highly recommend Mr. Jim Cole and his wonderful staff. Everyone in this office is knowledgeable and friendly. They made me feel like I was more than just a client. Without a doubt, should the need arise again, my first choice would be Mr. Cole.

Anna
“Attorney Sam Cole was the first attorney who treated me as a person instead of a paycheck.”
I have gone through hell in the family court system in Texas against the father of my children, who is an attorney in our community with abundant legal resources. After years of fighting for my children, I was unjustly put in criminal contempt for not bringing my daughter to soccer practice despite following the custody agreement and the advice of my attorneys at the time. I asked about appeal options, and while the attorneys felt my case was justified, they said it would be a waste of my time and money and that only two percent of cases win on appeal. However, as a mother and a teacher, I wanted to clear my reputation and fight for what’s right. I hired a law firm to file a mandamus with the Court of Appeals, but the court denied our petition. Not wanting to give up, I decided to go to the Texas Supreme Court. After consulting with a few attorneys who were very discouraging and didn’t want to take my case, one referred me to Attorney Sam Cole. Sam told me my case was a long shot but agreed I was right and would fight for me if I wanted to proceed. He worked with me on my case and on a payment plan that worked for my situation. He always explained everything and answered questions with patience and understanding. He thoroughly researched all that had happened and the law that surrounded the issue. Sam treated me as a person and not just a paycheck, and had I lost in the Supreme Court, I would still be writing this review. However, the Supreme Court did rule in our favor, and after more than 2.5 years of this hanging over my head, I am completely vindicated. I hope the outcome of my case will help prevent this from happening to others in the future.

Pamela J.
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Just want to give a shout out to the team at Cole, Cole, Easley & Sciba. From the first day till the case was settled. I was treated with kindness and respect. Chuck and Tabitha worked very hard for me. They are the best.

Pamela W.

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What Our Work Means To Us

Client Focus
We communicate with clients clearly and tell them candidly what they can expect, given the specifics of the case.
Community Focus
We believe in giving back to the Victoria community. We support various organizations financially and with our time.
Local Knowledge
In 1954, Emmett Cole, Jr., returned to the crossroads area to found our practice after working a year at a Houston law firm.
National Reputation
We have provided effective, ethical legal representation throughout Texas and nationwide for more than 50 years.

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