The state of Maryland, including Baltimore County, sees an alarming number of accidents that involve pedestrians every year. Unfortunately, when an individual is hit by a car, they are often faced with very serious injuries that may even be fatal. Victims of pedestrian accidents often find that the burdens of the accident last for years down the road, whether they are physical, financial, or emotional in nature. It is important that pedestrian accident victims consider speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney that can help them analyze their case and hold the appropriate parties responsible. If you require strong legal representation from an experienced Maryland pedestrian accident attorney, contact Markey & Orsi today to schedule a consultation.
How are pedestrian accidents caused?
As unfortunate as it is, the number of pedestrian accidents that occur in Maryland each year is alarming. While there are many different factors that can go into a pedestrian accident, one of the most prevalent issues is driver negligence. That being said, sometimes pedestrians are the ones who are at fault because they have opted not to pay attention to the drivers around them. Some of the major causes of pedestrian accidents in Maryland include the following:
- Speeding drivers
- Distracted, reckless, or careless drivers
- Drivers who fail to turn on their headlights at night
- Drivers who fail to abide by crosswalks, stop signs, red lights, or yield signs
- Intoxicated drivers
- Obstructed visibility on the roads that make it hard to see people walking
- Pedestrians that fail to use the crosswalk
- Pedestrians that use the crosswalk but not when the light signals that it is safe for them to cross
These accidents often result in very serious injuries for the victim of the accident because of the weight and speed of the vehicle that they were in an accident with. Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries include broken bones, lacerations, head and brain injuries, and soft tissue injuries. It is important to seek medical attention immediately after being involved in a pedestrian accident because some injuries may be internal and need treatment promptly.
Negligence in a Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian is hit by a motor vehicle in Baltimore County, they may be facing lifelong consequences. The only protections that pedestrians really have is the use of sidewalks and crosswalks. However, this will not provide much protection if negligence comes into play. After an accident, pedestrians often wish to file an injury claim against the negligent party. In order to do so, they must be able to identify the driver that hit them and find proof of the driver’s negligence. Of course, this can be difficult but taking some steps after an accident can be quite helpful in fulfilling the burden of proof.
What should I do after a pedestrian accident?
It is important to stay calm. When you are hit by a vehicle, call the police and call for medical attention if you are able. Doing so can document some of the facts of your case. For one, a police report can help document the accident, including the cause and conditions that led to the crash. Calling for medical attention can document the injury suffered because of the accident. If possible, collect information about the vehicle and driver. If passersby witnessed the accident, they can help corroborate your case as well.
Contact a Maryland Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident because of the negligence of a driver, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. The legal team at Markey & Orsi has proudly served clients in Baltimore County and throughout Maryland for nearly 30 years when they need strong legal representation to hold negligent parties accountable. Contact our firm today to discuss your case.
