Were you injured while crossing the street, strolling along the sidewalk, or walking near traffic? At Cueria Law Firm, we know how devastating these accidents can be. We also understand the lasting impact they have on both victims and their families alike.
With over 30 years of experience handling personal injury cases, we’ve recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients since 1993. You can trust us to pursue the maximum amount of compensation possible in your case as your Metairie pedestrian accident lawyer.
If you or a loved one was hurt due to someone else’s negligence, having the right legal team can make all the difference. Contact us today for more information. We’re here to represent you as your Metairie personal injury lawyer.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Occur?
Pedestrian accidents arise from many different scenarios. Let’s take a look at common factors that can contribute to these accidents.
Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. People who are texting while driving, using their phones, eating behind the wheel, or engaging in other distractions are less likely to notice pedestrians entering crosswalks or walking on the side of the road.
As a result, they may fail to yield the right of way or stop in time to avoid a collision.
Speeding
When drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions, they have less time to react to pedestrians. In addition to increasing the likelihood of accidents, speeding also elevates the severity of collisions due to the impact.
With pedestrian accidents in particular, drivers who speed are far more likely to cause fatal or life-threatening injuries.
Failure to Yield the Right of Way
At intersections, in crosswalks, and around other pedestrian-heavy areas, drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians, especially when they have the right of way. Unfortunately, some drivers ignore these rules, which puts pedestrians in danger.
Failing to yield can result in a driver colliding with a pedestrian who is abiding by the laws and crossing the road legally.
Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to see pedestrians clearly. As a result, impaired driving contributes to pedestrian accidents, and intoxicated drivers are more likely to cause serious injuries or fatalities.
Poor Road Conditions
In some cases, unsafe road conditions can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Poorly maintained roads, potholes, inadequate lighting, and a lack of proper signage can make it difficult for pedestrians to travel on foot safely.
If a roadway defect leads to a pedestrian accident, the government entity responsible for road maintenance may be held liable for damages.
Who is Liable in a Pedestrian Accident?
Liability in a pedestrian accident case varies based on the circumstances of your situation. In general, the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian is often at fault for the crash. However, the following parties could also be held liable for the incident:
- The driver: If the driver was driving while distracted, exceeding speed limits, or failing to yield the right of way, they could be held liable for the accident.
- The government: If poor road conditions or a lack of signage contributed to the incident, the local government or municipal authorities responsible for maintaining the roads might be found responsible.
- The property owner: If a pedestrian accident occurred on private property, the property owner may be held liable for unsafe conditions that led to the accident.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Louisiana
As of July 1, 2024, personal injury incidents in Louisiana are subject to a two-year statute of limitations. Meanwhile, claims for any accidents that transpired before July 1, 2024, must be filed within one year of the incident.
If you miss this deadline, the statute of limitations—or prescription period in Louisiana—could expire, meaning you may lose your right to pursue compensation. That’s why it’s important to consult with a pedestrian accident attorney in Metairie as soon as possible.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accident victims in Metairie may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the case. The following damages can be pursued:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Punitive damages
Contact Our Metairie Pedestrian Accident Lawyer to Schedule a Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in Metairie because of someone else’s negligence, Cueria Law Firm is ready to help. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, we’ll walk you through the legal process and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Reach out today for a free consultation to take the next steps together. Our Metairie pedestrian accident law firm can help you understand everything you need to know about pedestrian accidents—how they happen, their impact, and the legal process for seeking compensation.