Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Norfolk VA

Take back control after you’re hit by a car

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Virginia, now is the time to seek legal representation. You deserve legal help from compassionate attorneys who look out for your best interest.

Our pedestrian accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for the rights of victims and holding negligent parties accountable for their actions. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case, provide legal advice, and answer any questions you may have. Contact Welch & Wright, PLLC today to schedule your consultation and begin your journey toward healing and justice.

Main causes of pedestrian accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, and identifying the cause of the accident is essential to determine who may be liable for the damages. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

Distracted driving:
- Texting or looking at a phone while driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones may not see a pedestrian crossing the road or walking alongside the street.
- Using GPS while driving: The use of GPS while driving can distract drivers from paying attention to the road, making them less likely to notice pedestrians.
- Looking for something in the vehicle while driving: Drivers who are looking for something in their vehicle, such as a lost item, may take their eyes off the road and hit a pedestrian.
- Eating while driving: Drivers who are eating or drinking while driving may be distracted and unable to react quickly to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
Impaired driving: Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have slower reaction times, reduced visibility, and impaired judgment, all of which increase the risk of a pedestrian accident.
Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or failing to adjust their speed for the surrounding conditions may be unable to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
Failure to yield the right-of-way: Pedestrians can be struck by drivers who neglect to yield at crosswalks and intersections.

Common pedestrian accident injuries

Without the protection that cars and other vehicles provide, pedestrian accidents often result in severe and life-changing injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Pedestrians who suffer a blow to the head during a collision may experience a traumatic brain injury and other head injuries. Concussions are a milder form of TBI but can still lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical disabilities.
Spinal cord injuries: Pedestrian accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord resulting in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury.
Broken bones: Being hit by a car can result in multiple fractures, including broken legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis, which can be extremely painful and may require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
Internal injuries: The force of impact from a pedestrian accident can cause internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys to be damaged or ruptured. Broken bones from the accident can also puncture an organ and cause internal bleeding, a life-threatening medical emergency.
Lacerations: Pedestrians who are hit by a vehicle can suffer deep cuts or tears in the skin, also known as lacerations. These injuries can be caused by contact with the vehicle, the road surface, or other objects and debris. Lacerations can range in severity from minor cuts that can be treated with stitches to more serious injuries that require surgery. They can also lead to scarring and disfigurement.
Infections: Pedestrians who sustain lacerations and abrasions are also at risk for infections. If the cut is not cleaned and treated properly, bacteria can enter through the wound and become infected. In severe cases, infections can lead to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's immune system goes into overdrive in response to an infection. Infections can be particularly dangerous for pedestrians who are already in a weakened state due to other injuries sustained in the accident.

Pedestrian accidents can result in fatalities, leaving families with the burden of their loss. In such cases, an experienced attorney can help families understand their legal rights and seek compensation for their damages. By pursuing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party, families can recover compensation for their loved one's medical expenses, funeral costs, and other related expenses.

What damages can I claim for a pedestrian accident?

If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to recover damages to compensate for the harm and losses you've experienced as a result of the accident. Every pedestrian accident is different. The types and amount of damages you can recover will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the impact on your daily life.

Some of the damages you may be able to recover in a pedestrian accident case:

Medical expenses, including hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, and physical therapy.
Lost income and earning capacity due to missed work, reduced work hours, or disability.
Pain and suffering, including physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
Loss of enjoyment of life, including the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.

Give your case the legal representation you deserve

At Welch & Wright, PLLC, we're dedicated to putting our clients first. We handle every case that comes our way seriously and carefully. With a proven track record of success, we get the job done right. Contact us now to schedule your free consultation and get back on your feet with confidence. We help clients in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and through the Hampton Roads, Virginia area.