Salt Lake City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Salt Lake City, UT

Pedestrian accidents are serious mishaps that overwhelmingly result in injuries. In fact, the Highway Safety Office of the Utah Department of Public Safety reports that 87% of collisions involving pedestrians result in injuries, and 5% are fatal. 

Have you or someone you love been hurt while doing something as simple as crossing a road at a crosswalk or walking along a sidewalk? If so, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. 

At The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins, we are advocates for those whose worlds have been turned upside down by all kinds of accidents. Our Salt Lake City pedestrian accident attorney is a skilled representative who takes pride in fighting to see that clients receive the compensation they need to get their lives back on track. 

Erik L. Mullins, Personal Injury Attorney

Fighting for what victims deserve when harmed by someone else’s negligence.

What Is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident is a traffic collision involving a pedestrian, usually someone on foot being hit by a truck, car, or another motor vehicle. These accidents can result in serious injuries and even death for the pedestrian.

Common Causes 

Many factors can contribute to a pedestrian accident, including the following:

• Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise distracted behind the wheel may not see pedestrians walking in a crosswalk. 
• Speeding: Vehicles traveling at excessive speeds have less time to react to pedestrians.
• Poor visibility: Low light conditions or bad weather can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
• Failure to yield: Drivers who fail to yield to people at crosswalks or intersections can cause pedestrian accidents.
• Intoxicated driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs may have impaired judgment and reaction time, making them more likely to hit a pedestrian.

Determining Fault in Pedestrian Accidents

Utah is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that pedestrians and drivers can share liability for accidents. Should a court determine that a pedestrian is 50% or more at fault for an accident, they may be unable to seek compensation. However, if the driver is more than half to blame for a collision, they can be held responsible. 

How Courts Determine Fault 

When determining fault in a pedestrian accident, courts will often consider these elements, among others:

• Where the accident occurred 
• Whether the pedestrian had the right of way at a crosswalk or intersection
• Whether the pedestrian and driver obeyed traffic signals
• The road conditions at the time
• Additional details from witness statements and police reports

Expert reports on traffic patterns and accident reconstruction experts may also provide invaluable insights during court proceedings, further assisting in painting a clear picture of how an accident transpired.

How Much Can You Recover in a Pedestrian Accident in Salt Lake City?

Utah law requires drivers to have liability coverage at or above certain amounts. Drivers must have $25,000 for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage. If a driver is uninsured, you may be able to get compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. Additionally, you can file a civil lawsuit for damages incurred in the accident. 

It can be confusing to determine how to proceed after a pedestrian accident. Fortunately, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our attorney, Erik L. Mullins, can guide you and work to recover compensation for things like medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. In the tragic event that a loved one dies as a result of a pedestrian accident, he can represent surviving family members and personal representatives in a wrongful death lawsuit. 

Trust Your Case with The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins 

Do you have questions about your pedestrian accident case? Are you concerned about whether you will be able to cover your amassing expenses? Turn to The Law Office of Erik L. Mullins. Our Salt Lake City pedestrian accident attorney is at the ready to provide answers to questions and outline your legal options. To get the information you need, request a free consultation. We can conduct these meetings in person or virtually, depending on what is most convenient for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

Immediately following a pedestrian accident, your safety and health are the priorities. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. Call emergency services for medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as symptoms can sometimes be delayed. Gather as much information as possible about the driver, including contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. Also, try to collect contact information from any witnesses. Documentation, including photos of the scene, can be crucial for any future legal proceedings.

What Steps Do Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Take to Build a Strong Case?

Pedestrian accident attorneys in Salt Lake City undertake a detailed approach when building a case. They begin by gathering comprehensive evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and eyewitness testimonies. Lawyers may also work with accident reconstruction experts to better understand the incident dynamics. Negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of clients, they strive to obtain a fair settlement that reflects the victim’s needs. If necessary, they are prepared to take the matter to court to fight for the client’s rights.

How Can Pedestrians in Salt Lake City Protect Themselves?

Pedestrians in Salt Lake City can enhance their safety by adhering to traffic laws, such as using designated crosswalks and obeying pedestrian signals. Wearing visible clothing, especially during low-light conditions, and avoiding distractions from mobile devices can also reduce the risk of accidents. Community programs often offer free workshops on safe walking practices and road safety awareness, which are excellent resources for staying informed about best practices and new safety measures in the city.