Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Charlotte, NC

Why you need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Charlotte, NC

Navigating the busy streets of Charlotte, NC, pedestrians are frequently exposed to the perils of traffic and unforeseen hazards. When accidents transpire, the aftermath can often be daunting, laden with medical bills, emotional trauma, and an uncertain pathway to justice. This is precisely when the expertise of a pedestrian accident lawyer becomes indispensable. Schehr Law PLLC stands at the forefront of legal representation in this arena. With an in-depth grasp of Charlotte’s local laws and a commendable history of advocating for accident victims, Schehr Law PLLC is dedicated to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur under a variety of circumstances, and several factors contribute to their occurrence. Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other distractions might not notice pedestrians in time to stop.
• Failure to Yield: In many cases, drivers do not yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks.
• Speeding: Drivers traveling at high speeds have less time to react to pedestrians and are more likely to cause serious injuries when an accident does occur.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs can impair a driver’s ability to recognize and react to pedestrians.
• Poor Visibility: Accidents can happen during low-light conditions, such as at dawn, dusk, or nighttime, especially if pedestrians aren’t wearing reflective clothing.
• Left-hand Turns: Drivers making left-hand turns at intersections may be more focused on oncoming traffic than on checking for pedestrians crossing the street.
• Backing-Up Accidents: Drivers might not see pedestrians behind them when reversing in parking lots or driveways.
• Poor Road and Crosswalk Design: Inadequate signage, poorly placed crosswalks, or roads lacking sidewalks can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals: Drivers who run red lights or stop signs can hit pedestrians who are crossing with the right of way.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, snow, or icy conditions can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the chances of accidents.
• Distracted Pedestrians: Just as drivers can be distracted, pedestrians who are texting, wearing headphones, or not paying attention to their surroundings can also contribute to accidents.
• Lack of pedestrian infrastructure: Areas without proper sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, or crosswalks can lead to pedestrians sharing the road with vehicles, raising the risk of collisions.

While some accidents are the result of unavoidable circumstances, many are the consequence of negligence on the part of drivers or other entities. Understanding these common causes can help in prevention and also in legal proceedings when determining fault and liability.

What Types Of Injuries Are Associated With Pedestrian Accidents In North Carolina

Pedestrian accidents, given the inherent vulnerability of individuals on foot compared to those in motor vehicles, often result in serious and sometimes life-altering injuries. In North Carolina, as in many other places, the types of injuries stemming from these accidents can vary in severity, but some common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A sudden blow or jolt to the head can cause the brain to move inside the skull, potentially leading to cognitive issues, physical impairments, and other long-term complications.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can lead to damage in the spine, which may result in partial or total paralysis, depending on the location and extent of the injury.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a collision can break bones anywhere in the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis.
• Internal Injuries: The impact can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs, which might not always be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
• Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts and scrapes, while seemingly minor, can lead to significant blood loss or infections if not promptly treated.
• Amputations: In severe cases, the trauma from the accident may necessitate the amputation of a limb or it may be lost during the collision.
• Facial and Dental Injuries: These can include broken jaws, nose fractures, lost teeth, and facial disfigurement.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and torn ligaments can occur when the body is thrown or twisted during an accident.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims often experience emotional distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety following an accident.
• Fatalities: Tragically, some pedestrian accidents result in the loss of life.

It’s important for anyone involved in a pedestrian accident in North Carolina to seek immediate medical attention, even if they feel fine immediately after the incident. Some injuries, especially internal ones, might not manifest symptoms until hours or even days later. Given the potential severity of these injuries, having legal representation can also be crucial for victims to secure the compensation they need for their recovery.

What Type Of Financial Compensation Can I Pursue After A Pedestrian Accident In North Carolina

If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian in an accident in North Carolina, understanding your rights to financial compensation is essential. The state operates under a “contributory negligence” rule, which means that if you’re found even partially at fault for the accident, you might be barred from recovering any compensation. However, if you are not at fault, you can pursue various types of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: This covers current and future medical bills resulting from the accident. This can encompass doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and any necessary medical equipment.
• Lost Wages: If the injury has caused you to miss work or has impaired your ability to earn a living in the future, you can seek compensation for lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: This non-economic damage compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress experienced due to the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Traumatic accidents can lead to psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Victims may be compensated for the emotional and psychological toll of the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: If the injury adversely affects the relationship between the victim and their spouse, compensation might be available for the loss of companionship.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Injuries might require ongoing physical or occupational therapy, and these costs can be included in the claim.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the accident results in a lasting physical change or disability, additional compensation might be warranted.
• Wrongful Death: If a pedestrian accident leads to a fatality, the victim’s family may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.
• Punitive Damages: These are less common but can be awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious. Their primary purpose is to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future.

It’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney familiar with North Carolina’s laws. They can provide guidance on the specific compensations you might be entitled to, based on the unique details of your case.

FAQ:

What is the right of way law in NC

In North Carolina, the right of way law establishes guidelines to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and prevent accidents. Broadly, drivers must yield the right of way in specific scenarios to promote safety. For instance, vehicles already on the road have the right of way over those entering from driveways or alleys. At intersections, the vehicle that arrives first or the vehicle to the right, if they arrive simultaneously, has the right of way. Moreover, drivers must always yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks, intersections, and when a pedestrian faces a walk signal. It’s essential for both drivers and pedestrians to understand and adhere to these rules to maintain safety on North Carolina roads.

Do pedestrians have the right-of-way in NC

In North Carolina, pedestrians are afforded certain rights-of-way to ensure their safety. Most notably, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians crossing within any marked crosswalk or any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. However, pedestrians must not suddenly leave the curb or other safe places and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close it is impossible for the driver to yield. While pedestrians do have rights, they are also obligated to obey traffic signals and exercise due care. It’s essential for both drivers and pedestrians to be aware of and respect these regulations to ensure safety on North Carolina roads and sidewalks.

What is the penalty for jaywalking in NC

In North Carolina, jaywalking, or crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks or not adhering to traffic signals, is considered a minor pedestrian violation. However, penalties for jaywalking are typically not as severe as other traffic offenses. Violators may be subject to a nominal fine, often accompanied by court costs. It’s worth noting that local ordinances can vary, so specific penalties might differ based on the municipality. The primary intent behind these penalties is to deter unsafe crossing behaviors and ensure pedestrian safety on North Carolina streets.

How to file a Pedestrian Accident Claim

Filing a pedestrian accident claim involves several crucial steps to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. First, it’s essential to gather evidence from the accident scene, including photographs, witness accounts, and any relevant police reports. Immediate medical attention should be sought, even if injuries appear minor, as this provides medical documentation that can be crucial for the claim. Victims should then notify their insurance company about the accident but refrain from giving detailed statements or accepting settlements without consulting an attorney. Engaging a personal injury attorney experienced in pedestrian accidents can be invaluable. They can guide the victim through the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure all necessary documentation is submitted within the required timeframes. The ultimate goal is to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and any other damages incurred due to the accident.

Finding Justice with Schehr Law, PLLC: Your Trusted Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Charlotte, NC

Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be a daunting journey filled with complex legal procedures and emotional turmoil. In such trying times, having a trusted legal partner can make all the difference. With Schehr Law, PLLC by your side in Charlotte, NC, you gain not only legal expertise but a dedicated advocate committed to championing your rights. Our team understands the intricacies of local laws and is steadfast in its pursuit of securing the compensation you rightfully deserve. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, Schehr Law, PLLC ensures that you’re not alone in this fight, guiding you every step of the way towards justice and recovery.