In 2021 alone, more than a quarter of road deaths in Oklahoma City happened to pedestrians. For each of those deaths, many more pedestrians have been injured on our streets. Too often, these injuries are caused by negligent drivers, leaving a major impact on sufferers and their families.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries as a pedestrian in Oklahoma City, you have the right to compensation for the costs of your injuries. At Parrish DeVaughn, we are proud to fight for injured pedestrians and help them get the compensation they deserve.
Contact our team today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
In Oklahoma City, several causes contribute to pedestrian accidents. Some of the most common include:
- Distraction: With the advent of smartphones and other electronics, drivers’ attention is often diverted towards texting, talking, using social media, or handling their GPS while driving. These distractions increase the risk of failing to notice pedestrians in time to prevent accidents.
- Failure to Yield: Failure to yield the right of way to pedestrians is another common cause of pedestrian accidents. Drivers must remain aware of their surroundings in areas with high pedestrian traffic such as crosswalks and intersections.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired driving also contributes to pedestrian accidents. Alcohol, drugs, and certain medications can impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Pedestrian Accidents
Comparative negligence refers to the legal principle that assigns a percentage of fault to each party involved in an accident. This means that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault for the accident, they may still be eligible for compensation.
In states like Oklahoma that follow a comparative negligence system, the compensation awarded to an injured pedestrian is reduced by their percentage of fault. For instance, if a pedestrian is found to be 20% at fault for the accident, their compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Proving liability and determining fault in shared fault situations can be complex. In pedestrian accidents where both the pedestrian and the driver share fault, it’s critical to gather evidence and establish each party’s level of negligence. This can involve reviewing accident reports, collecting witness statements, analyzing traffic camera footage, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian is involved in an accident, the injuries sustained can vary in severity and type. A few examples include:
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Due to the impact of a collision with a vehicle, pedestrians are vulnerable to fractures and broken bones. These injuries can range from minor fractures to severe breaks that require extensive medical intervention and rehabilitation.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Pedestrians are at high risk of head and brain injuries when involved in accidents. These injuries can range from concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) to skull fractures. Head injuries can leave long-lasting effects, impacting cognitive function, motor skills, and overall quality of life.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: The force exerted during a pedestrian accident can cause severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or loss of sensation in different parts of the body. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term care, and rehabilitation.
- Internal Injuries: Organ damage is one of the most dangerous types of injuries in pedestrian accidents. These injuries are often not immediately apparent and can quickly turn fatal if not treated.
The long-term consequences of pedestrian accident injuries can greatly impact the victim’s life. These consequences may include chronic pain, disability, emotional distress, loss of income, and decreased quality of life. It is essential to address these consequences when seeking compensation for the injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident.
Remember that prompt medical treatment ensures the victim’s well-being and provides documentation of the injuries sustained. Documenting injuries is vital when pursuing legal action to hold the responsible party accountable and get fair compensation.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you find yourself a victim of a pedestrian accident, follow these steps:
- Seek immediate medical attention and report the accident. Your health and safety should be your top priority after a pedestrian accident. Even if you think your injuries are minor, seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Call for emergency medical assistance if needed. Also, report the accident to the local authorities, such as the police or highway patrol.
- Gather evidence at the accident scene. Collecting evidence is essential for building a strong case if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim. Take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicle that struck you, your surroundings, any visible injuries, and property damage. Obtain contact information from witnesses who can provide statements later. Note any details that may be relevant to the accident, such as weather conditions or road hazards.
- Deal with insurance companies and file a claim. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and initiate the claims process. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault or providing overly-detailed statements. It is advisable to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who can guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Compensation Available in Pedestrian Accident Claims
When you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident in Oklahoma City, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming. Pursuing a pedestrian accident claim can help you seek the compensation you deserve for your losses. Your damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of medical treatments, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you have lost and the potential income you may lose in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Pedestrian accidents can cause significant physical pain, emotional trauma, and a reduced quality of life.
Calculating the value of medical expenses and lost wages requires a thorough evaluation of your medical records, treatment plans, and employment history. Our experienced Oklahoma City pedestrian accident lawyers will work closely with medical experts and financial professionals to accurately assess the full extent of your damages.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Oklahoma City, don’t hesitate to reach out to Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers. We have a proven track record of success in handling pedestrian accident claims and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
