Advocating for Injured Pedestrians Across Maryland
Rights and Protections for Pedestrians Under Maryland Law
Pedestrians in Maryland are afforded specific rights and protections under the law. Maryland follows right-of-way rules, which dictate that:
- Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks when traffic signals or stop signs are not present.
- Sidewalks: Pedestrians have the right of way when walking on sidewalks. Drivers must stop and ensure pedestrian safety before crossing sidewalks.
- Intersections: At signal-controlled intersections, pedestrians have the right of way when crossing with a green light or walk signal.
However, pedestrians must also adhere to certain responsibilities:
- Avoid jaywalking or crossing streets outside of crosswalks when it creates a hazard.
- Obey traffic signals and pedestrian control devices.
Maryland applies the contributory negligence rule, meaning if a pedestrian is even 1% at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering damages. This underscores the importance of a strong legal advocate to establish driver negligence.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are often caused by negligent drivers. Common factors include:
- Distracted Driving:
- Texting, eating, or using a GPS device while driving.
- Speeding:
- Drivers traveling above the speed limit have less time to react to pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield:
- Ignoring crosswalks, stop signs, or traffic signals often leads to collisions with pedestrians.
- Driving Under the Influence:
- Alcohol or drug impairment is a major contributor to pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Weather or Lighting Conditions:
- Low visibility in rain, fog, or darkness increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Aggressive Driving:
- Actions like running red lights or sudden lane changes can endanger pedestrians.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident to Protect Your Claim
If you’ve been hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian, taking the following steps can help protect your legal rights and strengthen your case:
- Call 911:
- Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
- Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a healthcare professional to document your injuries.
- Gather Evidence:
- Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved.
- Obtain contact information from the driver and any witnesses.
- Request a Police Report:
- Ensure the police document the driver’s negligence and any traffic violations.
- Avoid Discussing Fault:
- Do not admit fault or make statements to the driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer:
- An experienced Maryland attorney can guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical Bills:
- Coverage for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical needs.
- Lost Wages:
- Compensation for income lost during recovery and diminished earning capacity if injuries prevent returning to work.
- Long-Term Care:
- Costs associated with permanent injuries requiring ongoing medical care, home modifications, or assistive devices.
- Pain and Suffering:
- Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Property Damage:
- Reimbursement for personal property damaged during the accident (e.g., clothing, electronics).
- Wrongful Death Damages:
- If the accident resulted in a loved one’s death, eligible family members can recover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and lost financial support.
How We Help Hold Negligent Drivers Accountable
At our firm, we are dedicated to ensuring pedestrian accident victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Our approach includes:
- Thorough Investigation:
- Collecting evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements to establish the driver’s negligence.
- Proving Negligence:
- Demonstrating that the driver breached their duty of care by acting recklessly or failing to obey traffic laws.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies:
- Insurance companies often undervalue claims. We fight to ensure you receive a fair settlement that fully compensates your damages.
- Litigation:
- If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court to hold the negligent party accountable.
Call-to-Action
A pedestrian accident can leave you with life-altering injuries and financial burdens. You deserve justice and fair compensation for your suffering. Let us help you recover after a devastating pedestrian accident.