If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Columbus, you are not alone. We understand the distressing challenges you face in the aftermath of such an incident.
After all, Columbus has some of the most dangerous intersections in Ohio, such as Cleveland Avenue and Morse Road.
However, as traffic increases and urban development continues, pedestrian risks have escalated significantly.
At Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we are dedicated to providing the legal support you need during this difficult time. We’ll guide you through the unique dangers of pedestrian accidents in Columbus, the legal aspects of your case, and the types of damages you may be entitled to.
Additionally, we will outline what to expect from the defendant and how to effectively prove your case. Our mission is to equip you with the knowledge and support necessary to confidently navigate this challenging situation. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we are here to help you seek the justice you deserve.
The Unique Dangers of Pedestrian Accidents in Columbus
Columbus boasts a rich tapestry of neighborhoods and cultural landmarks, making it a lively place to live and visit. However, the vibrant atmosphere also means a higher volume of traffic.
In areas such as Downtown, the Short North Arts District, and around the Ohio State University campus, the streets can be congested, increasing the risk for pedestrians.
With that said, here are the factors contributing to pedestrian accidents
Increased Traffic Volume: Columbus has seen significant growth in both population and tourism. More cars on the road lead to more potential interactions with pedestrians. This is particularly evident during events at the Ohio State University or festivals in the Short North.
Distracted Driving: The rise of smartphones has led to an increase in distracted driving. Drivers may not be paying full attention to their surroundings, which can result in dangerous situations for pedestrians, especially when crossing busy streets.
Speeding: Many streets in Columbus have higher speed limits, which can lead to serious injuries in the event of an accident. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian at high speeds, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Poor Visibility: Inadequate street lighting and insufficient signage can create hazardous conditions, particularly at night. This makes it essential for pedestrians to be cautious and aware of their surroundings.
Lack of Pedestrian Infrastructure: Certain neighborhoods may lack proper sidewalks or crosswalks, forcing pedestrians to walk closer to moving traffic. This lack of infrastructure can contribute to accidents, especially in less populated areas where drivers may not expect to see pedestrians.
Weather Conditions: Columbus experiences a variety of weather conditions, from heavy rain to snow. Poor weather can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Understanding these dangers is vital when navigating your legal options after an accident. It’s essential to recognize that pedestrians often face significant risks, even
ident Claim
When you are involved in a pedestrian accident, several legal principles come into play. In Ohio, the law generally holds drivers accountable for failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or when they are legally walking along the road. This liability can extend to several parties, including:
Drivers
If a driver’s negligence led to your injuries, they may be held responsible. This includes situations where a driver fails to stop at a stop sign, ignores traffic signals, or engages in reckless driving.
City or Municipal Authorities
If inadequate signage, poor road conditions, or lack of proper pedestrian infrastructure contributed to the accident, the city may share liability. For example, if a crosswalk is poorly marked and a pedestrian is struck, the city could be liable for failing to provide adequate safety measures.
Vehicle Manufacturers
In cases where vehicle malfunction led to an accident, the manufacturer could be held liable. For example, if faulty brakes contributed to a driver’s inability to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian, the manufacturer could be part of the legal action.
Understanding these aspects is vital for building your case and determining where to direct your legal efforts. We can help you identify all potential liable parties to ensure that you seek full compensation for your injuries.
Types of Damages You Could Be Awarded
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to various types of damages. In Columbus, Ohio, potential damages can include:
Medical Expenses
Compensation for hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing medical treatments related to your injuries is crucial. This includes both immediate medical expenses and any long-term care you may require.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This encompasses both your current wages and any future earnings you might miss out on due to ongoing recovery or permanent disability.
Pain and Suffering
This encompasses physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life. While these damages can be more subjective, we can work with medical professionals and psychologists to quantify the impact your injuries have had on your overall well-being.
Property Damage
If any personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may seek compensation for their repair or replacement. This could include clothing, electronics, or other items that were damaged as a result of the incident.
Loss of Consortium
In some cases, spouses of accident victims may seek damages for loss of companionship and support. This aspect recognizes the impact the injury has on personal relationships and family dynamics.
Understanding the full range of damages you could pursue is crucial for ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Each case is unique, and we can help you identify all applicable damages based on your specific situation.
Why You Should Hire a Columbus Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Navigating the legal landscape following a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with injuries and recovery. Here are a few reasons why hiring a Columbus pedestrian accident lawyer can be beneficial:
Guidance Through the Legal Process
The legal system can be complex, and having knowledgeable guidance can help you understand your rights and options. We can help you navigate the intricacies of personal injury law, ensuring that you don’t miss any critical steps in your case.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. We can advocate for your best interests and negotiate on your behalf. Insurance adjusters are trained to settle claims for as little as possible, so having a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement.
Building a Strong Case
A thorough investigation is essential to prove liability. We can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to build a compelling case. This includes collecting police reports, medical records, and any other documentation that supports your claim.
Contingency Fees
Many Columbus personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win your case. This makes legal representation accessible to everyone. You can pursue your claim without the added stress of upfront legal fees.
Emotional Support
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be emotionally taxing. Having a lawyer by your side provides not only legal support but also peace of mind. We can handle communications with insurance companies and other parties, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
By partnering with us, you can focus on healing while we handle the legal complexities of your case. We are committed to standing by your side through every step of the process.
What to Expect from the Defendant
In a pedestrian accident case, the defendant’s response can vary significantly based on the circumstances. Generally, here’s what you might encounter:
Insurance Company Involvement
The defendant’s insurance company will likely get involved immediately, seeking to investigate the accident. They may contact you for a statement, but it’s advisable to consult with us before discussing details with them. Anything you say could be used against you, so it’s crucial to protect your rights.
Denial of Liability
The defendant may deny responsibility, arguing that you contributed to the accident. This is known as comparative negligence in Ohio, where fault can be shared among parties. If the defendant claims that you were jaywalking or not paying attention, they might attempt to shift blame onto you. We can help counter these claims with evidence and witness statements.
Settlement Offers
In some cases, the defendant’s insurance may present an initial settlement offer. It’s crucial to have us review any offers, as they often fall short of covering your total damages. Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements in hopes of closing the case quickly. We can evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fair amount based on your damages.
Legal Defense Strategies
If your case goes to trial, the defendant may employ various legal strategies to defend against your claims. This could include challenging the extent of your injuries or presenting evidence that downplays their liability. We will be prepared to counter these tactics with strong arguments and evidence.
Being prepared for these scenarios can help you respond effectively and protect your rights. We will work diligently to ensure you are informed and equipped to handle whatever comes your way.
How Our Legal Team Can Help Prove Your Claim
To build a solid case following a pedestrian accident, several elements must be established:
Duty of Care
We need to demonstrate that the driver had a duty to act in a manner that ensured pedestrian safety. This duty exists whenever a driver is operating a vehicle near pedestrians.
Breach of Duty
Evidence must show that the driver failed to uphold this duty (e.g., speeding, distracted driving). We can gather police reports, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness accounts to establish this breach.
Causation
We must establish a direct link between the driver’s actions and your injuries. This means proving that the accident would not have occurred but for the driver’s negligence. Medical records can help demonstrate how the accident directly caused your injuries.
Damages
Clear documentation of your injuries, medical treatment, and the impact on your life is essential. We will work with medical professionals to obtain detailed reports that outline your injuries and the necessary treatments, as well as how your life has been affected.
Gathering Evidence
Collecting evidence is a critical step in proving your case. This includes:
Police Reports: These documents often contain valuable information about the accident, including witness statements and any citations issued to the driver.
Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide crucial details about the accident and help establish liability.
Medical Records: Documentation of your injuries and treatments is vital for substantiating your claims for damages.
Photographic Evidence: Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries can all serve as powerful evidence.
Expert Testimony: In some cases, we may need to enlist expert witnesses to provide insights into issues such as traffic patterns or vehicle safety.
Gathering this evidence can be time-consuming, but it is essential for building a strong case. Our team will be diligent in collecting and presenting this evidence to ensure that your case is as robust as possible.
Do You Need a Respected Columbus Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
After a pedestrian accident in Columbus, Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is here to support you through this challenging time. We understand the complexities of pedestrian accidents and are committed to advocating for your rights.
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. By partnering with us, you can focus on healing while we work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.
Your well-being is our priority, and we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way. Contact us today at (877) 927-4968 for your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery. With our support, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that you have a dedicated team in your corner, fighting for your rights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys The Right Law Firm For Me? / Why Should I Trust Your Firm With My Case?
Choosing a law firm to represent you and your case is one of the most important decisions you can make. We understand that your case is important to you and choosing the right firm and attorneys to represent you could make the difference for your case. Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys is known nationwide for providing outstanding legal advice and excellent representation. We have recovered over hundreds of millions of dollars in lawsuits involving 18 wheeler trucking litigation, wrongful death litigation, commercial vehicle litigation, motorcycle litigation, catastrophic litigation, and mass torts involving medical devices and bad drug litigation. Our prowess in the legal arena comes from our combined years of trial and complex litigation experience.
What Types Of Cases Does Your Law Firm Handle?
We handle claims at all levels of litigation. Our areas of practice include Business Law, Employment and Labor Law, trucking accidents, and much more.
Yes. Each state has laws that provide time limits to formally file a lawsuit or claim. These laws, called the “statute of limitations”, will prevent an otherwise viable claim from being considered if it is not filed on time. Therefore, it is important to contact us, or any lawyer, as soon as possible after you have been harmed.
Do You Charge For Consultations?
We want to ensure that our clients are well informed on their legal rights. Therefore, we offer free consultations to our clients and potential clients.
What Types Of Cases Are Considered Personal Injury?
Personal injury cases are incidents in which injuries or deaths have occurred as a result of another’s carelessness, recklessness or intentional wrongdoing. The other person’s negligence may be the result of a motor vehicle accident, slip and fall or many other possible events.
How Long Will My Case Take?
The length of a case, from the initial free consultation through to the resolution of the case by settlement or jury verdict, depends on several variables, so it is not possible to say exactly how long a case may take. The duration of a case is often dictated by the individual court in which the case is filed. Some courts designate a time period for discovery of evidence by each party that may be a year or longer. Other courts have a backlog of cases and therefore, the oldest cases in a county will be considered before a more recently filed case. Though some cases do settle before going to court, a settlement would not usually occur until just before the scheduled trial.
Three Easy Steps to Compensation After an Accident
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