Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers in Sumter, SC
Our Sumter 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 Sumter Pedestrian Accident Attorneys.
From Broad Street to Downtown, Sumter has become more pedestrian-friendly over the past decade. Across the country, it is estimated that over 4,000 pedestrians are killed annually, and around 70,000 are injured. These are daunting statistics. Sumter’s tourists create 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.
What are the causes of a vehicle versus pedestrian accidents?
Unfortunately, the majority of pedestrian accidents are caused by a driver’s negligent inattention. In today’s world, technology creates many distractions for drivers — texting and emailing, selecting music or podcasts, satellite navigation, climate control, and any other of the many things displayed on a phone or other screen within the vehicle. Sometimes the focus on punctuality or even just deep thought can distract a driver. Sumter drivers who become distracted may:
- Run a stop sign or traffic light
- Turn into a pedestrian who has the right of way.
- Fail to see a pedestrian who is crossing the road
- Run off the road and strike a pedestrian on a sidewalk
- Drive under the influence
- Speed through intersections
If you have been victimized by a vehicle versus pedestrian accident and suspect distracted driving may have been the cause, contact our attorneys today.
Where do pedestrian accidents usually occur?
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.
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 frequently suffer severe injuries and often death. Pedestrians can be the most vulnerable victims of automobile accidents and bus accidents. At least in the case of a bicyclist or motorcycle accidents, those riders are wearing helmets. The 3,000 plus 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
The Right Steps to Take Following a Sumter Pedestrian Accident
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:
Get The Medical Care You Need
Regardless of the amount of pain or discomfort after a Sumter 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.
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.
Contact a Sumter Pedestrian Accident Attorney Immediately
There is no reason not to consult an experienced Sumter pedestrian accident attorney. Our attorneys will never charge for an initial consultation, and they can help in determining any legal rights to recover compensation. 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.
Sumter Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Injured Pedestrians
Strom Law Firm is experienced in representing victims of Sumter pedestrian accidents and other traffic accidents. Our lawyers are ready to meet with you in person at your convenience. You can also contact us online or by phone at 803-252-4800 to schedule a time to talk with a member of our team.