As a major urban center, Knoxville offers many attractions and activities that allow residents and visitors to walk to their destinations. Unfortunately, the level of pedestrian traffic means many individuals are injured in crosswalk accidents each year. If you’ve been injured in a crosswalk accident, seasoned Knoxville car accident lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to discuss your crosswalk accident and how Mr. Hartsoe can help you.
Crosswalk Accidents in the U.S and TennesseeEvery person is a pedestrian at some point in their day. Whether you walk to work, to school, or to run errands, chances are you will use a crosswalk to get to your destination. What you do not expect is to be involved in a car accident. Unfortunately, pedestrians suffer severe and sometimes fatal injuries when they are struck by a vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 69,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents nationwide, and over 4,400 died from their injuries in 2011. In Tennessee, there were over 1,300 pedestrians involved in traffic accidents in 2012. The elderly and children are most at risk for injuries and death in crosswalk accidents.
Liability for Crosswalk AccidentsCrosswalk accident victims can hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions. In Tennessee, drivers must exercise due care when operating their vehicles, and are required by law to yield to pedestrians. Drivers must respect traffic signs and stops, but if there are none or they are not working properly, pedestrians still have the right-of-way. If a person is at or near a crosswalk, the driver must slow down or stop if necessary to yield to the pedestrian.
Driver negligence is often the cause of many crosswalk accidents. If a driver fails to exercise due care, and his or her negligence causes a crosswalk accident, that person is responsible for any injuries that result from their wrongdoing. Some of the driver actions that can cause these accidents include:
These are just some of the reckless actions by a driver that can contribute to a crosswalk accident. Victims of such accidents may be able to recover compensation for their injuries.
Compensation and RecoveryIf you were injured in a crosswalk accident, you can seek compensation from the driver that caused your injuries. You may potentially recover for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. If you lost a loved one in a crosswalk accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the driver whose negligent actions caused the death of your relative. There are time limitations for both personal injury and wrongful death claims, so it is important that you speak to a knowledgeable Tennessee accident attorney to find out your rights.
Helping You Fight for Your RightsKnoxville personal injury attorney Mark C. Hartsoe handles a range of personal injury cases, including crosswalk accidents. Mr. Hartsoe has over twenty years of experience in personal injury law, and has handled a wide range of car accident-related cases. He will analyze the circumstances of your particular case and work with you to obtain the best possible outcome. Contact us online or at 865-804-1011 today for your free consultation.