Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Gilbert

Trusted Legal Guidance After a Pedestrian Accident in Gilbert

Walking should be simple and safe. In Gilbert, busy corridors like Gilbert Road, Val Vista Drive, and Williams Field Road, plus the Heritage District’s crosswalks and the paths around SanTan Village, bring heavy foot and vehicle traffic together. When a driver’s inattention turns a routine walk into a serious injury, the path forward can feel confusing and urgent.

The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins helps injured pedestrians in Gilbert and throughout the East Valley pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the human cost of pain, trauma, and life disruption. We understand how Arizona’s insurance and negligence rules apply to crosswalk impacts, parking lot strikes, school zone incidents, and hit-and-run crashes, and we use that knowledge to build strong claims from day one.

Call (435) 268-3923 for a free, no obligation consultation or send us a message to get answers today.

Why Choose The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins for Your Pedestrian Case

We align legal strategy with the specific facts of pedestrian collisions. That means rapid scene preservation, prompt witness outreach, and early medical documentation to connect your injuries to the crash. We also coordinate with treating providers so your care plan and legal claim move in the same direction.

Local focus and prompt investigation

Gilbert collisions often involve multi-lane arterials, flashing HAWK beacons, and complex right-on-red interactions. We move quickly to secure traffic camera footage, nearby business surveillance, school-zone crossing guard notes, and 911 audio before they cycle out. When necessary, we retain human factors and accident reconstruction professionals to analyze sightlines, speeds, and braking distances at locations like the Heritage District crossings or intersections feeding Loop 202.

Clear communication and client-first representation

From intake through settlement or trial, you will have direct access to our team for case updates, treatment guidance, and insurance negotiations. We explain each milestone, from liability determinations and recorded statements to subrogation and lien reductions at the end of the case.

Understanding Arizona Law In Pedestrian Claims

Pedestrian cases in Arizona turn on both traffic rules and civil liability standards. The following concepts often decide outcomes.

Arizona comparative negligence

Arizona uses comparative negligence. If an insurer argues you were partially at fault, your recovery can be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Example: a driver fails to yield while turning left, but you entered during a flashing signal with limited visibility. If a fact finder assigns you 10 percent fault and your damages are 100,000, your net recovery would be 90,000. We work to minimize any claimed percentage against you by proving driver inattention, speed, or failure to yield.

Duty to yield and crosswalk rules

Drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians and must yield in marked crosswalks when pedestrians are within the driver’s half of the roadway or approaching closely. We use crosswalk design, signal timing data, and lane geometry to show visibility and right-of-way.

Statute of limitations and notice issues

Most pedestrian injury claims in Arizona must be filed within two years of the crash date. Claims involving public entities can have much shorter deadlines for notices of claim. The safest approach is to contact counsel immediately so time-sensitive evidence is secured and all filing requirements are met.

Insurance layers and hit-and-run coverage

Beyond the at-fault driver’s liability policy, you may have access to uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits on your own auto policy, even though you were walking. MedPay and health insurance coordination can also speed treatment and reduce out-of-pocket costs while we pursue the liability claim.

Common Pedestrian Accident Scenarios In Gilbert

Different crash types require different proof. We tailor evidence collection to each.

Left-turn conflicts at signalized intersections

Left-turning vehicles often clip pedestrians in the crosswalk as the turning driver looks right for oncoming cars and fails to recheck the crosswalk ahead. We obtain signal phase data, intersection timing reports, and any red-light camera imagery to show who had the right of way.

Right-on-red and rolling-stop impacts

Drivers rolling through a right on red at intersections near shopping centers or school zones may not fully stop at the limit line. Corner-mounted cameras and storefront surveillance are crucial here, as is mapping sightline obstructions like signage or shrubbery.

Midblock crossing on wide arterials

On long stretches of Gilbert Road or Val Vista, midblock crossings happen when the nearest crosswalk is far away. Even in these situations, drivers must maintain a safe speed and keep a proper lookout. Nighttime luminance studies, headlight performance, and driver phone records can be decisive.

Parking lot and driveway strikes

Low-speed impacts in retail plazas and residential driveways can still produce serious orthopedic injuries and concussions. We analyze turning radii, stop bar placement, and approach angles to confirm visibility and driver duty.

School zone incidents

School arrival and dismissal create a perfect storm of congestion and distraction. Crossing guard statements, school security video, and crossing device logs help establish the driver’s failure to yield or slow appropriately.

What Your Case May Be Worth

Every case is unique, but pedestrian injuries often produce a broad range of damages.

Economic damages

These include ambulance and emergency care, diagnostic imaging, surgery, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, lost wages, and diminished future earning capacity. We gather medical records and specialist opinions to link each cost directly to the crash.

Non-economic damages

Pain, emotional distress, loss of quality of life, and loss of enjoyment of activities are central to pedestrian cases. Journals, family testimony, and provider notes help communicate how the injury changed your life.

Wrongful death

If a loved one was killed, eligible family members can bring a wrongful death claim for losses including funeral expenses and loss of companionship. We move urgently to preserve evidence when liability disputes arise.

Our Process For Pedestrian Cases

We designed a clear, step-by-step roadmap so you know what happens next.

1. Free consultation and case evaluation

We listen to your story, review initial records, and flag urgent evidence sources like dash cams or nearby business cameras.

2. Liability investigation

We collect police reports, witness statements, traffic engineering data, and any electronic evidence such as vehicle event data or driver phone activity, when available.

3. Medical coordination and documentation

We help you access appropriate specialists, whether orthopedics, neurology, or pain management, and ensure charting ties symptoms and impairments to the collision.

4. Claim presentation

When treatment stabilizes, we prepare a demand package with liability analysis, medical summaries, billing, and a damages narrative tailored for adjusters and defense counsel.

5. Negotiation and litigation

We negotiate firmly and, if needed, file suit in the appropriate Arizona court. Through discovery, depositions, and motion practice, we keep pressure on the defense while preparing your case for trial.

Injuries We Commonly See In Pedestrian Collisions

Pedestrians' impacts transfer force directly to the body. Early diagnosis and treatment matter.

Orthopedic injuries

Fractures of the tibia and fibula, pelvis, and wrists often require surgery and lengthy rehab. Ligament tears in the knees and ankles are common with twisting falls.

Head and brain injuries

Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can present with delayed symptoms like headaches, memory problems, and sensitivity to light. We encourage clients to seek evaluation even if symptoms seem mild at first.

Spine injuries

Cervical and lumbar strains, herniated discs, and facet joint injuries may limit mobility and work capacity. Imaging and specialist opinions support long-term prognosis.

Internal and soft tissue injuries

Organ bruising, lacerations, and deep contusions can be serious even when imaging looks normal initially. We monitor for delayed complications and follow specialist recommendations.

Evidence That Strengthens Your Claim

We build your case with multiple layers of proof.

Scene and digital evidence

Photos of vehicle damage and shoe scuffs on the pavement can establish impact points and paths. We also pursue telematics, infotainment downloads, and phone metadata where appropriate.

Witnesses and official records

Early contact with witnesses preserves memory. Police diagrams, measurements, and narrative assessments often influence insurer fault decisions.

Specialist analysis

Accident reconstruction, human factors, and life care planning specialists can quantify fault and future needs, improving settlement leverage and trial clarity.

Dealing With Insurance Adjusters

Insurers move fast to limit payouts. We move faster.

Recorded statements and fault traps

Adjusters may push for early recorded statements or suggest you were outside the crosswalk. We handle communications so your words are not taken out of context.

Medical authorizations and fishing expeditions

Broad medical release forms can expose unrelated history. We limit releases to crash-related care to protect your privacy and keep the focus on relevant treatment.

Low offers and delay tactics

We counter with documented evidence, clear damage narratives, and, when necessary, the pressure of litigation.

What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident In Gilbert

Protect your health first, then protect your claim.

Immediate steps

Call 911, seek medical care, and request a police response. If safe, take photos of the scene, vehicles, your injuries, and the signal status. Get driver and witness information.

Within days

Follow up with your primary care provider or a referred specialist. Save all receipts and correspondence. Avoid posting details on social media while your case is pending.

Contact our firm

An early call allows us to secure time-sensitive video and start the liability investigation while the evidence is fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident attorney in Gilbert?

Our firm handles pedestrian cases on a contingency fee. You pay no attorney’s fees unless we obtain a settlement or verdict. We explain costs and percentages before representation begins.

What if I was not in a crosswalk?

You may still recover compensation. Arizona’s comparative negligence rules allow financial recovery even if a pedestrian shares some responsibility. We work to minimize any fault alleged against you.

The driver fled the scene. Can I still make a claim?

Yes. Uninsured motorist benefits on your own auto policy can cover hit-and-run injuries. We also look for outside video, partial plates, and witness details to help identify the driver.

I started feeling pain days after the crash. Is it too late?

No. Delayed symptoms are common, especially with head, neck, and back injuries. Seek medical attention immediately and let us document the onset and progression for your claim.

Will my health insurance have to be repaid?

Possibly. Health insurers and certain medical providers may assert liens. We negotiate to reduce liens where possible so more of the recovery goes to you.

How long will my case take?

Timelines vary with medical treatment duration, liability disputes, and court schedules. We push for efficient resolution while ensuring your medical picture is complete before settlement.

What if a school zone or town vehicle was involved?

Claims against public entities have special deadlines and notice requirements. Contact us immediately so we can preserve your rights and file the required notices on time.

Ready to protect your rights in Gilbert and move forward with confidence

Pedestrian injuries can upend work, family routines, and finances. Our firm helps you understand your options, coordinates your care, and fights for full compensation under Arizona law. If your crash happened anywhere in Gilbert or the surrounding East Valley, reach out now to start building your case.

Schedule your free consultation today with The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins.