Pedestrian accidents in Charleston frequently happen when drivers fail to watch the route attentively or commit other traffic law violations. Unlike the occupants of enclosed cars and trucks, pedestrians are directly exposed to their surrounding environment in an accident situation. Therefore, they may suffer debilitating and sometimes deadly injuries.
If you sustained injuries in a recent pedestrian accident, the skilled team of Charleston pedestrian accident attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can help you. Our legal team can investigate the circumstances surrounding your pedestrian accident, explore your legal options, and pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit for compensation.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with our experienced Charleston pedestrian accident lawyers, please contact us today.
Charleston Pedestrian Accident Guide
- Why Choose Our Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyers?
- How Much is a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
- Common Locations for Pedestrian Accidents in Charleston
- Common Causes of Charleston Pedestrian Accidents
- Common Types of Pedestrian-accident Injuries in Charleston
- Fighting the Insurance Company after a Charleston Pedestrian Accident
- Important Steps Following a Pedestrian Accident in Charleston
- Talk with Our Experienced Charleston Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Right Away
Why Choose Our Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyers?
Many pedestrian accidents can alter the course of an individual’s life. Given these potential consequences, if you suffered injuries in a recent pedestrian collision, you want the best possible legal team in your corner from the onset.
The skilled team of attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers is ready to aggressively fight for your legal rights by negotiating on your behalf or litigating your case through the state court system. Our individualized approach helps to ensure that our clients receive fair compensation for their injuries so that they can become whole again.
Some of our most recent client testimonials can be found by clicking here.
We have offices across the state of South Carolina to conveniently serve accident victims. Let us help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your pedestrian accident injuries today.
How Much is a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Case Worth?
In Charleston, South Carolina, several factors can influence the value of a pedestrian accident case. First, the extent of the pedestrian’s injuries plays a significant role. Severe injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries often result in higher compensation due to the associated medical expenses and long-term effects on the victim’s life.
Another crucial factor is liability, which determines who is at fault for the accident. If the pedestrian can successfully prove that the driver was negligent or violated traffic laws, they are more likely to receive a favorable settlement.
Additionally, the insurance coverage of the involved parties can affect the case’s value. If the at-fault driver has sufficient coverage, it may be easier to obtain compensation for damages. Conversely, if the driver is uninsured or underinsured, it can complicate the process and result in lower payouts.
The location of the accident can also influence the case value. Factors such as road conditions, signage, and visibility may contribute to the determination of liability. For example, if the accident occurred in a poorly lit area or at an intersection with a history of accidents, it may strengthen the injured pedestrian’s case.
In terms of damages, injured pedestrians may be entitled to various types of compensation. Economic damages cover tangible expenses, such as medical bills, lost income, and property damage. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, compensate for intangible losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment.
Furthermore, in cases involving egregious conduct or gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Overall, the value of a Charleston pedestrian accident is very case-specific. At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can maximize the compensation you receive by highlighting the strengths of your case while downplaying any weaknesses.
Common Locations for Pedestrian Accidents in Charleston
In Charleston, South Carolina, pedestrian accidents due to driver negligence often occur at various locations throughout the city. One common area where these accidents happen is along King Street – particularly at intersections such as King Street and Calhoun Street or King Street and Market Street. These intersections see high volumes of both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, increasing the likelihood of collisions, especially during rush hours.
Another hotspot for pedestrian accidents is on Meeting Street, especially near intersections like Meeting Street and Mary Street or Meeting Street and Broad Street. Meeting Street serves as a major thoroughfare in Downtown Charleston, attracting numerous pedestrians and vehicles daily. The combination of heavy traffic and pedestrian activity makes it prone to accidents, particularly if drivers fail to yield to pedestrians or abide by traffic signals.
Additionally, areas near popular tourist attractions – such as The Battery or Waterfront Park – often experience pedestrian accidents. Roadways surrounding these landmarks, including East Bay Street and Murray Boulevard, see significant foot traffic from visitors exploring the city. However, drivers may become distracted by the scenic views or congested streets, leading to accidents involving pedestrians crossing or walking along these roadways.
Moreover, pedestrian accidents frequently occur near college campuses, like the College of Charleston or the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Streets adjacent to these campuses, such as Coming Street or Ashley Avenue, witness a mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, creating potential hazards for accidents. Students crossing streets between classes or walking to nearby amenities are particularly vulnerable to accidents if drivers fail to observe pedestrian right-of-ways or speed limits.
Furthermore, intersections along major thoroughfares like Savannah Highway (US-17) or the Crosstown Expressway (US-17) are also prone to pedestrian accidents. Crosswalks along these busy roads, including intersections like US-17 and Lockwood Drive or US-17 and Bee Street, require cautious navigation by drivers to prevent accidents.
Common Causes of Charleston Pedestrian Accidents
In Charleston, South Carolina, pedestrian accidents can result from various types of driver negligence, each posing distinct risks to pedestrian safety. One common form of negligence is distracted driving, where drivers divert their attention from the road due to activities like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting navigation systems. Distracted drivers may fail to notice pedestrians crossing the street or may fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Another frequent cause of pedestrian accidents is speeding. Drivers who exceed posted speed limits experience reduced reaction times and longer stopping distances, making it difficult for them to avoid pedestrians – especially in urban areas with heavy foot traffic. Speeding also amplifies the severity of injuries in the event of a collision since the impact force is greater at higher speeds.
Failure to yield is another common form of driver negligence that contributes to pedestrian accidents in Charleston. Drivers may disregard pedestrian crosswalks, intersections, or traffic signals, endangering pedestrians’ safety by failing to give them the right-of-way. This can result in collisions as pedestrians attempt to cross the street or navigate intersections.
Additionally, impaired driving poses a significant risk to pedestrian safety. Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs often experience impaired judgment, decreased coordination, and delayed reaction times, making them more likely to strike pedestrians or lose control of their vehicles. Impaired drivers may also disregard traffic laws, including speed limits and pedestrian rights-of-way, further increasing the risk of accidents.
Lastly, aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, running red lights, or making illegal turns, can also cause pedestrian accidents. Aggressive drivers may engage in risky maneuvers that endanger pedestrians’ safety, such as cutting corners or failing to signal before turning. These behaviors often create unpredictable traffic patterns and increase the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians who may not anticipate the driver’s actions.
If you suffered injuries in one of these types of pedestrian accidents, our legal team can promptly investigate your circumstances and take appropriate steps to recover compensation on your behalf.
Common Types of Pedestrian-accident Injuries in Charleston
In Charleston, South Carolina, pedestrian accidents can result in a range of physical and mental injuries for those involved. One of the most common physical injuries is orthopedic trauma, which includes fractures, sprains, and strains on the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the body. Pedestrians may suffer broken bones, such as fractures to the arms, legs, hips, or ribs, due to the force of the collision with a vehicle. These injuries can cause significant pain and limited mobility and may require surgical intervention or long-term rehabilitation to recover fully.
Head injuries are also prevalent among pedestrians involved in accidents. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can occur when pedestrians strike their heads on the pavement, vehicle, or other objects during a collision. TBIs range from concussions to more severe injuries like skull fractures or intracranial hemorrhages, which can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, memory losses, or even permanent disabilities.
Furthermore, spinal cord injuries are a serious consequence of pedestrian accidents, particularly when the force of the impact causes damage to the spinal cord or vertebrae. These injuries can result in partial or full paralysis, often affecting movement, sensation, and bodily functions below the injury site. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and adaptive devices to manage the resulting disabilities.
In addition to physical injuries, pedestrians may also experience mental and emotional trauma following their accident. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common psychological response to traumatic events like pedestrian accidents, characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and hypervigilance. Witnessing or being involved in a traumatic accident can have long-lasting effects on a person’s mental well-being, affecting their ability to function in daily life and maintain relationships with others.
Moreover, survivors of pedestrian accidents may suffer from depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders as they cope with the physical pain, emotional distress, and life-altering consequences of their injuries. The psychological effects of a pedestrian accident can be just as debilitating as the physical injuries, often requiring mental health treatment and support.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Charleston Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident in Charleston, South Carolina, dealing with insurance companies can be a challenging process. Often, insurance companies may attempt to lowball settlement offers, offering less compensation than what is fair for the damages sustained. This is because insurance companies are businesses aiming to maximize profits, and offering low settlements helps them minimize their financial liabilities.
To combat this, it’s essential for injured pedestrians to aggressively negotiate with insurance company adjusters. This involves providing thorough documentation of the accident, including medical records, police reports, and evidence of the damages incurred. By presenting a compelling case supported by evidence, injured pedestrians can push back against lowball offers and advocate for fair compensation.
In some cases, insurance companies may resort to threatening litigation as a tactic to pressure injured pedestrians into accepting inadequate settlements. They may argue that pursuing a lawsuit may result in a lengthy and costly legal battle, discouraging victims from seeking full compensation for their injuries. However, it’s crucial for pedestrians to remember that they have the right to pursue legal action if necessary to obtain the compensation they deserve.
Seeking legal representation from an experienced Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer can significantly strengthen a pedestrian’s position when dealing with insurance companies. Attorneys can provide valuable guidance, advocate for their clients’ rights, and handle all negotiations with insurance adjusters on their behalf. Additionally, having legal representation demonstrates to insurance companies that the pedestrian is serious about seeking fair compensation and is prepared to take legal action if necessary.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we will aggressively fight for your interests during settlement negotiations and pursue litigation on your behalf if that step becomes necessary.
Important Steps Following a Pedestrian Accident in Charleston
Following a pedestrian accident in Charleston, South Carolina, taking prompt and appropriate steps is crucial to protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. First, you should seek medical attention immediately, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a thorough medical evaluation can identify any underlying issues. You should also attend all follow-up appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.
It is also important to retain documentation related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies. This documentation will serve as crucial evidence to support your claim for compensation.
You should also refrain from speaking with insurance adjusters or providing recorded statements without consulting with an experienced lawyer first. Insurance companies may try to use your statements against you to minimize their liability – or even deny your claim. At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can advise you on your rights, handle communications with insurance companies on your behalf, and negotiate for a fair settlement.
Talk with Our Experienced Charleston Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Right Away
If you or a person you love recently suffered injuries in a Charlestown pedestrian accident due to driver negligence, it’s essential that you speak with an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible.
The knowledgeable legal team at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can aggressively fight for your rights and pursue the full compensation you need to make you whole again.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Charleston personal injury lawyer, please contact us today at (843) 466-4444.
