Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common occurrences in New Jersey. If you are a pedestrian accident victim, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, navigating the legal system alone can be challenging, so hiring the best New Jersey pedestrian accident lawyers to help you with your case is essential. Don’t hesitate to contact Petro Cohen today.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in New Jersey

Pedestrian accidents occur for many different reasons. Some of the most common causes include the following:

Speeding—drivers who are driving too fast for the current conditions may not be able to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian;
Distracted driving—drivers texting, talking on the phone, looking at the GPS, or otherwise distracted can easily fail to notice pedestrians in their path;
Failure to yield—not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks or intersections can cause serious accidents;
Drunk driving—driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is more likely to cause pedestrian accidents because the driver’s reaction time and judgment are impaired; and
Poor visibility—drivers who are driving in low-light conditions or adverse weather may not be able to see pedestrians in their path.

It’s not uncommon for pedestrian accidents to involve multiple causes. For example, someone who is speeding may also be distracted by a passenger in the back of their vehicle. The driver may then fail to see the pedestrian in the crosswalk and strike them. If the driver’s negligence is to blame for your injuries as a pedestrian, it’s essential to contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in New Jersey as soon as possible.

Common Injuries in New Jersey Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can result in severe to catastrophic injuries, including:

Head injuries. A pedestrian might be knocked down in the accident, striking their head on the vehicle or the ground. An accident victim who suffers a blow to the head can experience traumatic brain injuries, resulting in long-term damage.
Broken bones. Pedestrians can suffer broken bones, including fractures in their extremities and pelvis. These injuries are common since the vehicle directly impacts the victim’s body.
Spinal cord injuries. The spinal cord is delicate and can be easily injured in a severe impact. Pedestrians who suffer damage to their spinal cords can experience permanent paralysis or other serious complications.
Soft tissue injuries. Pedestrian accident victims might experience soft tissue injuries, such as sprained and strained muscles.
Internal injuries. A direct blow to the body can also cause internal bleeding and organ damage that is not visible to the naked eye. Diagnostic testing is required to rule out any life-threatening internal injuries.

Some victims might not notice the full range of their injuries in the moments following the accident. Some symptoms, such as a concussion or soft tissue injuries, might be delayed. It might be 24 or 48 hours before the onset of symptoms.

What Should You Do Following a Pedestrian Accident in New Jersey?

The steps you take following the accident are important. Here are a few tips to remember if you’re involved in a pedestrian accident.

Call 911. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. The police will also be able to document the accident and create a report, which can be helpful later on.
Exchange information. Get the driver’s name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number.
Get witness contact information. You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Don’t assume a witness will remain at the scene until the police arrive.
Take scene photos. Take photos of the accident scene, including any car damage and injuries you have suffered. Only do this if you can do so safely and not further injure yourself.
Seek medical attention. Even if you do not feel hurt, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Be sure to contact a New Jersey pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Our skilled New Jersey pedestrian accident attorneys can help you navigate the legal system and fight for the maximum compensation.

Why Hire the New Jersey Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Petro Cohen?

Hiring a New Jersey pedestrian accident attorney can help you in many ways. Some of the reasons to hire our lawyers include:

Legal expertise. An experienced New Jersey pedestrian accident attorney has the legal knowledge to navigate the complex legal system. Your attorney will also help prevent you from missing critical deadlines, such as the statute of limitations.
Gathering evidence. Your attorney will help gather and preserve evidence that supports your claim for damages. An attorney can thoroughly investigate the accident, collect witness statements, review police reports, and analyze medical records.
Objectivity. Dealing with a pedestrian accident can be emotionally challenging, but an attorney can provide objective guidance and support throughout the legal process.
Negotiating skills. An attorney will handle all communication with the driver’s insurance company and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Court representation: If your case goes to court, an attorney can represent you and present your case in front of a judge or jury, increasing your chances of receiving a favorable outcome.

Having a skilled pedestrian accident attorney in New Jersey on your side is always a good idea. At Petro Cohen, we can help you identify all legally responsible parties and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today!

Our experienced attorneys handle other types of cases as well, including: