Introduction to Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can have life-altering consequences, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. In Columbia, these accidents happen for a variety of reasons, including distracted or reckless driving, poor visibility, and hazardous road conditions. When a Columbia pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the aftermath can be overwhelming—medical bills pile up, lost wages create financial strain, and the path to recovery can seem daunting. That’s why it’s crucial to consult a knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer who understands the complexities of pedestrian accident claims. An experienced accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and work tirelessly to recover compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and lost income. If you or a loved one has been involved in a Columbia pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek the legal support you need to move forward.

Pedestrian Accident Attorney In Columbia

Our Columbia pedestrian accident attorneys at the Strom Law Firm are familiar with litigating South Carolina personal injury cases and can often help victims recover substantially more compensation than they would be able to retain on their own, so it is highly advisable for anyone injured in an accident to discuss their options with one of our Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorney. As experienced Columbia personal injury attorneys, we bring local expertise in handling not only pedestrian accidents but also a wide range of injury cases throughout the Columbia area. Our personal injury law firm operates from a dedicated law office in Columbia, serving as the central hub for consultations, case evaluations, and providing personalized legal services to accident victims seeking justice and compensation.

From Five Points and Devine Street to The Vista and Downtown, Columbia has become more pedestrian-friendly over the past decade. Across the country, it is estimated that over four thousand pedestrians are killed annually and around seventy thousand are injured. These are daunting statistics. Injured pedestrians in Columbia have important legal rights and options for pursuing compensation, and our team is committed to providing the legal support they need after such incidents. Columbia’s annual influx of students, football fans, and tourists creates even higher foot traffic around town, leading to a vehicle versus pedestrian accidents.  Needless to say, such accidents can result in serious injury and death to the unfortunate pedestrian accident victims. Let our Columbia personal injury accident attorneys help you or your family if you have been injured.

Most personal injury firms in Columbia offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss potential cases.

Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in ColumbiaColumbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answers 

Unfortunately, the majority of pedestrian accidents are caused by a driver’s negligence and failure to pay attention causing personal injury. Driver’s negligence is a key legal concept, as proving that the driver breached their duty of care is crucial for securing compensation in pedestrian accident cases. Pedestrian accidents happen for a variety of reasons, including not only driver negligence but also environmental and situational factors such as weather conditions, broken sidewalks, and vehicle malfunctions. In today’s world, technology provides simply too many distractions for drivers. From texting while driving to selecting music and podcasts, these distractions are usually caused by smartphones. Reach to our Columbia pedestrian accident attorneys—each an experienced attorney—who can help you.

However, many distractions exist within the vehicles themselves. Satellite radios, air conditioning settings, even video displays can divert the attention of drivers. Sometimes, drivers are simply distracted by having too much on their mind, maybe troubles at home. Some drivers are too focused on being on time, and they drive at high speeds. Such distractions have unfortunately become commonplace across the country, Columbia SC included. Distracted drivers may:

• Run stop signs and traffic lights
• Turn into pedestrians who have the right of way
• Fail to see a pedestrian who is crossing the road
• Run off the road and strike pedestrians on sidewalks
• Drive under the influence
• Speed through intersections
• Cause accidents due to broken sidewalks or other hazardous walking conditions

If you have been victimized by a vehicle versus pedestrian accident, and suspect distracted driving may have been the cause, contact our personal injury attorneys today.

Where Do Pedestrian Accidents Usually Occur in Columbia?

Surprisingly, the vast majority of pedestrian deaths occur at locations other than intersections.  Often, motorists do not realize that they need to be aware of pedestrians at all times and in all places where cars are driven.  Pedestrians are struck in parking garages, parking lots, on stretches of road that do not have sidewalks, on sidewalks, crossing streets with no intersection, and many more locations. These incidents can result in serious pedestrian accident injuries, such as fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other severe pedestrian injuries that may have long-term impacts. Reach to the our Columbia pedestrian accident attorneys get help with your case! If you are able, it is important to document the accident scene and gather evidence after the incident.

Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Recent data underscores the alarming frequency and severity of pedestrian accidents in Columbia. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise nationwide, and Columbia is no exception. Pedestrian accident victims often suffer severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries, which can lead to long-term or permanent disability. These serious injuries not only impact the physical well-being of accident victims but also affect their families and communities. Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents—ranging from distracted driving to failure to yield—can help both drivers and pedestrians take steps to prevent these tragic incidents. By staying informed and vigilant, we can work together to reduce the number of pedestrian fatalities and help ensure safer streets for everyone.

How Much Harm Can Be Caused by Vehicle-Pedestrian Accidents?

As you would expect, walkers and runners who have been hit by cars and trucks often suffer severe injuries and, far too often, death.  Pedestrians simply do not have the same amount of protection as those in vehicles.  Pedestrians might be the most vulnerable victims of automobile accidents.  In the case of a bicyclist or motorcycle accidents, those riding the bikes usually have helmets on.  At least three thousand pound difference between a motor vehicle and a human being causes significant injury in the case of an accident.  Such injuries often include:

• Spinal cord damage
• Tears, fractures, and broken bones
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Road Rash
• Death

Injuries from pedestrian accidents can change a victim’s life in an instant and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. The true cost of pedestrian accident injuries encompasses not only monetary losses but also significant emotional and physical tolls.

Steps to Follow After a Pedestrian Accident – Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answer 

After a pedestrian accident, it is crucial to report the incident to the police immediately. You can never fully plan for the disturbance caused by being struck by a car while walking down the road, but you can understand the essential steps you should take after an accident to protect you or your loved one’s rights and finances. Those steps are as follows:

• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
• Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Collect evidence such as police reports, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and medical records to help determine fault and support your legal claim.
• Notify your insurance company about the accident.
• Consult an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through the legal claim process and ensure your rights are protected.

1.) Get The Medical Care You Need

Regardless of the amount of pain or discomfort after a Columbia pedestrian-vehicle accident, always seek medical care. The symptoms of many injuries appear slowly, but a physician can often quickly diagnose hidden injuries. Also importantly, seeing a doctor as soon as possible ensures that proper records are kept of any injuries for future insurance claims or litigation. Reach to the our Columbia pedestrian accident attorneys will get care you deserve.

2.) Do Not Speak To Insurance Adjusters or Their Lawyers

Most insurance companies will try and speak with you to settle your claim against the driver.  Never speak with these companies. You should always have your accident reviewed by a personal injury lawyer before settling.  Many insurance companies will attempt to take advantage of pedestrian accident victims’ frantic and confused states of mind immediately following an accident. Reach to our Strom Law Firm Columbia pedestrian accident attorneys get help with your case!

3.) Contact Experienced Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Immediately

There is no reason not to consult an experienced Columbia pedestrian accident attorney. A decent accident lawyer will never charge for an initial consultation, and the attorney will be able to help in determining any legal rights to recover compensation against the driver. A lawyer is also essential to serving as protection from insurance companies, who will try to contact you for a quick settlement for pennies on the dollar.

Investigation and Evidence Collection

A thorough investigation is essential after a Columbia pedestrian accident to ensure that your claim is supported by strong evidence. An experienced Columbia pedestrian accident attorney will take immediate steps to collect and preserve crucial information, including police reports, witness statements, and detailed medical records. These documents help establish the facts of the case and demonstrate the extent of your injuries. In many cases, accident reconstruction experts are brought in to analyze the accident scene and determine exactly how the incident occurred, which can be invaluable in proving the driver’s negligence. This comprehensive approach not only strengthens your case but also positions you for a fair settlement with the insurance company. By working with a skilled legal team, you can be confident that every detail is being addressed to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

Understanding the Claims Process

Navigating the claims process after a pedestrian accident can be complex, especially when you are dealing with severe injuries and mounting expenses. A Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer will guide you through each step, from filing your pedestrian accident claim to negotiating with the insurance company and, if necessary, representing you in pedestrian accident lawsuits. Your attorney will ensure that all deadlines are met, paperwork is properly completed, and your rights are protected throughout the process. With an experienced accident lawyer by your side, you can focus on your recovery while your legal team works to secure fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Choosing a law firm with a proven track record in handling Columbia pedestrian accident cases can make all the difference in achieving the best possible result.

Emotional Distress and Recovery

The impact of pedestrian accidents extends far beyond physical injuries. Many accident victims experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can affect every aspect of their lives. In Columbia, pedestrian accident attorneys understand the importance of addressing both the physical and emotional consequences of an accident. Your legal team will work to ensure that your claim includes compensation for emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other non-economic damages, in addition to covering your medical expenses and lost wages. By recognizing the full scope of your recovery needs, your attorney can help you pursue fair compensation that supports your journey toward healing and rebuilding your life after a Columbia pedestrian accident.

10 Columbia Pedestrian Accident FAQs – Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answer 

Did you suffer injuries in a pedestrian accident in Columbia? If you have specific questions about your right to compensation, contact Strom Law Firm, LLC today. If you have more general questions about pedestrian accident claims and your legal rights, take a look at our FAQs below.

Who pays my medical bills after a pedestrian accident in Columbia?

Serious injuries, like those often acquired in pedestrian accidents, can leave you with substantial medical bills. Many accident victims find themselves wondering how to handle those medical bills. If someone else caused your injuries, do you have to pay?

As the injured party, you have to make arrangements to pay your own medical bills. You will receive much-needed services to help you recover from your injuries, and you must pay for those services. However, you have several options for improving your ability to pay. You can:

Use your medical insurance. After a severe accident that leaves you with serious injuries, medical insurance provides you with a critical buffer that can make it easier to pay your bills. Contact your medical insurance provider to learn more about how the conditions of your accident will impact your insurance coverage, including whether your insurance will pay out as normal for your injuries.

You may also want to ask questions about coverage for:

• Long-term care
• In-home care
• Durable medical equipment
• Therapy

Some insurance providers, for example, may only cover a limited number of physical therapy sessions annually, even if you suffer injuries that require additional treatment or assistance. You may also want to ask about your copays and deductible to give you a better look at what your long-term medical bills will look like.

File a pedestrian accident injury claim to help you seek compensation. While a Columbia pedestrian accident claim will not require the liable party to pay for your medical bills directly, it will offer valuable financial compensation that will help you pay off your medical bills or replace the money you used to pay for your medical expenses. Talk to an attorney about how to calculate the medical expenses involved in your pedestrian accident claim and to ensure you pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses.

Who bears liability in a Columbia pedestrian accident?

When it comes down to car versus pedestrian, the car almost always wins. After an accident, you may have severe injuries.

Who bears liability for those injuries? Most of the time, the driver of the vehicle that struck you bears liability for the accident. However, in some cases, other parties may share liability for a pedestrian accident. For example, if a driver on the clock at the time of the accident causes serious injuries due to negligence on the part of the company, the driver’s employer may share liability for the accident, especially if the driver fails to adhere tofederal requirements due to company pressure.

Likewise, if an accident occurs due to mechanical failure, the vehicle manufacturer or a mechanic who recently worked on the vehicle might share liability for the accident. Consult an attorney to go over the circumstances that led to your accident and provide you with a better understanding of who might share liability for your injuries.

Identifying multiple liable parties can work in your favor. If you feel that numerous factors may have contributed to your accident, share those factors with your attorney. If more than one party contributed to your accident and your injuries, it may increase the compensation you ultimately receive for your injuries. A Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer can assist in identifying all liable parties to maximize compensation.

Can I file a claim after a Columbia pedestrian accident that occurred after I crossed at a location outside the crosswalk?

Ideally, you should always use a crosswalk to cross the street. Wait for the light to indicate that you can safely cross with the right of way. However, if you safely entered the street and a car strikes you before you can get to the other side, you may still have grounds to file a personal injury claim against the driver that caused your accident. Consult an attorney to learn more about how those factors can contribute to your accident and how comparative negligence may affect your claim.

What rules does a pedestrian have to follow to avoid liability in an accident in Columbia?

Like drivers, pedestrians must follow all the rules of the road. You must adhere to traffic signals and not attempt to cut into the flow of heavy traffic. Before entering the street, you should always look around you and make sure that you can cross safely. A pedestrian has many of the same responsibilities as a driver when it comes to obeying traffic laws.

Does the driver always bear liability in a Columbia pedestrian accident?

Not necessarily. In some cases, another party may share liability for an accident. If, for example, the driver was operating the vehicle as part of their employment, their employer could bear liability for the accident. Liability issues can be complex, even in accidents that appear simple at first glance. Consult a Columbia pedestrian accident attorney at the Strom Law Firm, LLC, to learn more about what circumstances can affect liability in a pedestrian accident.

How does comparative negligence affect my Columbia pedestrian accident claim?

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, as long as you are less than 51% at fault, you may still file a claim to recover compensation for your damages. Attorneys in Columbia must understand this rule to help protect your right to maximum compensation, even if you share some responsibility for the accident.

How is fault determined in a Columbia pedestrian accident?

Determining fault in a pedestrian accident involves a thorough investigation by insurance adjusters and your attorney. Lawyers collect evidence, review police reports, interview witnesses, and may engage accident reconstructionists to establish negligence, especially in cases involving distracted driving or other violations. This process is crucial to determine fault and ensure you receive full and fair compensation.

How long should I expect it to take to receive compensation after a Columbia pedestrian accident?

You should expect it to take some time to acquire compensation for your pedestrian accident. Your attorney may recommend waiting until you have progressed up to six months or more through your recovery before filing your Columbia pedestrian accident claim, depending on your doctors’ verdicts.

Traumatic brain injury, for example, can take some time to resolve, and it may take months before doctors have an accurate assessment of how much progress they feel you will make. If you suffered aspinal cord injury in your Columbia pedestrian accident, you may need six months before your doctors can assess your full odds of recovery, including how much mobility you will likely regain with time.

Next, you must consider how much you will need to negotiate before you reach a settlement agreement with the insurance company. In some cases, especially cases of severe injuries, the insurance company may drag out negotiations to wear you down and reduce the company’s financial liability as much as possible. In others, you may need to go through multiple rounds of negotiation to arrive at an agreement you find acceptable.

If you need to go to court, it can extend your claim even further.

It is also important to file your claim within the statute of limitations, which is three years for personal injury cases in South Carolina. Attorneys ensure all claims are filed on time to protect your rights to compensation.

Talk to your attorney to learn more about how long you should anticipate it taking to reach an agreement in your Columbia pedestrian accident claim. Your attorney may have a better idea of exactly how long you should expect it to resolve your claim.

What if the liable driver’s insurance company offers me a settlement agreement after a Columbia pedestrian accident? Should I take it? – Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answer

After your pedestrian accident, you may feel your worry escalating as your medical bills rise alongside the full count of your lost wages. The longer it takes before you can return to work, the more those bills may pile up, and the more worried you may feel.

A fast settlement agreement may sound like an easy way out. With that money in hand, you can pay off your immediate bills and better manage your medical expenses, which can leave you feeling more comfortable with your financial status. Unfortunately, fast settlement agreements rarely reflect the full and fair compensation you really deserve for your injuries.

In some cases, the insurance company may try to pressure you into a fast, early settlement agreement, taking advantage of your very real financial need to decrease its financial liability following a serious accident.

If you accept that offer, however, it may severely limit the compensation you ultimately receive for your injuries. Instead, talk to an attorney to learn more about your legal right to maximum compensation and how long you should continue to negotiate. Your attorney will work to calculate the full extent of your damages, including lost wages and pain and suffering, to ensure you receive the financial compensation you deserve.

Will I have to go to court to settle my Columbia pedestrian accident claim? – Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answer

Most accident claims, including pedestrian accident claims, are settled out of court. Insurance companies know that going to court not only extends the time needed to settle a claim, it can add significant expense to the entire legal situation. Choosing to settle out of court usually works in everyone’s best interests.

However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Do I really need an attorney for a Columbia pedestrian accident claim? – Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Answer

Many pedestrians injured in serious accidents find that having an attorney on their side offers increased compensation over trying to handle their Columbia pedestrian accident claims on their own. Working closely with an attorney provides you with many advantages as you work to file your Columbia pedestrian accident claim.

An attorney can:

• Provide you with a better assessment of the compensation you really deserve. Do you understand the full compensation you deserve for injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident? An attorney can help break down the compensation you deserve and give you a better look at what you should expect.
• Investigate your claim. Are you sure you know all parties who may have contributed to your pedestrian accident? Do you have clear evidence of the driver’s negligence? An attorney can conduct a full investigation into your claim and produce evidence that can clearly establish what factors led to the accident. They may also engage accident reconstructionists to help determine fault and establish liability.
• Support you through the process. Many people find that an attorney provides vital peace of mind following an accident with severe injuries. An attorney can take over negotiations on your behalf, manage communications with the insurance company, and ensure that you do not miss any vital details of your claim.
• Ensure all claims are filed within the statute of limitations to protect your right to compensation.

How much compensation do I deserve for injuries sustained in a Columbia pedestrian accident?

The compensation you ultimately receive for injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident will vary based on the conditions of your accident and the injuries you suffered.

Columbia Pedestrian accident attorneys can better evaluate your claim and give you an understanding of the full and fair compensation you deserve based on factors that include:

• The party that caused your accident. Who caused your accident? The driver that caused your accident probably carries insurance, but how much? Commercial drivers, including rideshare drivers, often carry higher-value policies than the average private driver. The limits of the driver’s insurance policy can determine how much compensation you ultimately receive.
• The injuries you sustained. Severe injuries, including amputations, broken hips, or traumatic brain injury, can bring with them substantial, ongoing medical bills. Those medical bills may continue to mount as you pursue treatment. An experienced Columbia pedestrian accident attorney can help you assess the full extent of your medical bills, including everything from emergency medical treatment to ongoing therapy following your injuries.
• The income you lost. Severe injuries in a Columbia pedestrian accident can also cause you to miss substantial time at work. Contact your attorney to learn more about how to calculate your financial losses related to the accident.
• Your suffering. In addition to your tangible financial expenses, most Columbia pedestrian accident claims include an element for pain and suffering. Talk to us to learn more about how the suffering related to the accident affects your claim. Attorneys work to calculate the full extent of current and future damages, including lost wages and pain and suffering, to pursue maximum compensation for your losses.

What if the driver leaves the scene of my Columbia pedestrian accident?

If the driver leaves the scene of your pedestrian accident, you may still be able to file a claim using your uninsured motorist coverage. Columbia firms may also assist in identifying responsible parties or pursuing claims through MedPay in hit-and-run cases.

What types of damages can I recover in a Columbia pedestrian accident claim?

In a Columbia pedestrian accident claim, you may be entitled to compensatory damages, which include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as medical bills and lost wages, while non-economic damages are intended to help handle trauma and suffering that are more difficult to value, such as pain and suffering.

What is the process for filing a Columbia pedestrian accident claim?

The process for filing a pedestrian accident claim typically involves proving the other party’s fault, collecting medical records, and negotiating with insurance companies. It is crucial to file your claim within the statute of limitations, which is three years for personal injury cases in South Carolina. Attorneys ensure all claims are filed on time to protect your rights.

Are most pedestrian accident claims settled out of court?

Yes, most pedestrian accident claims are settled out of court, avoiding the need for a lengthy trial while still securing fair compensation. However, if the insurance company refuses to settle, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial.

What if I was injured in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident or cannot identify the liable party?

Columbia pedestrian accident lawyers can assist in identifying responsible parties or pursuing claims through MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage in hit-and-run cases.

How do attorneys charge for handling pedestrian accident claims?

Personal injury lawyers often work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case.

Do law firms offer free consultations for pedestrian accident cases?

Yes, many law firms offer free consultations for pedestrian accident cases.

How can a Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer help maximize my compensation?

A Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer provides specialized legal representation for victims by investigating accidents, managing insurance communications, negotiating settlements, and identifying all liable parties to maximize compensation.

What are common injuries in pedestrian accidents?

Common injuries in pedestrian accidents include fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. Pedestrian accidents often lead to severe injuries that can result in lifelong complications.

 Strom Law Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Strom Law Firm is experienced in representing victims of Columbia pedestrian accidents and other traffic accidents. Our law office serves as a central hub for consultations, case evaluations, and personalized legal services for those involved in pedestrian accidents in Columbia, MO. Our Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys are ready to meet with you in person at your convenience. A Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer provides specialized legal representation by thoroughly investigating accidents, managing communications with insurance companies, and negotiating settlements on your behalf. You can also contact us online or by phone at to schedule a time to talk with a member of our team.

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