Lawrence Pedestrian Injury Attorney
Pedestrians face significant dangers when walking through Lawrence’s busy streets and intersections. A momentary lapse in attention from a distracted driver can result in devastating injuries. When you’ve been struck by a vehicle, you need an attorney who understands the unique challenges of pedestrian accident cases and can fight to secure the compensation you deserve.
At Hollis Law Firm, our experienced attorney has dedicated years to representing injured pedestrians throughout Kansas and Missouri. He understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. Whether you need assistance navigating insurance claims or pursuing compensation through litigation, Hollis Law Firm is here to guide you through each step of the legal process.
What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Lawrence?
Pedestrian accidents occur for numerous reasons, but certain factors appear repeatedly in Lawrence injury cases. Driver negligence remains the primary cause of most pedestrian accidents. Distracted driving has become increasingly problematic, with motorists checking phones or eating while behind the wheel.
Typical forms of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving prevents drivers from noticing pedestrians in crosswalks or along roadways
- Speeding that reduces reaction time and increases the severity of injuries when collisions occur
- Failing to yield the right-of-way at intersections or turning without checking for pedestrians
- Backing out of driveways and parking spaces without proper precautions
These dangerous behaviors put pedestrians at significant risk and often form the basis for liability in injury claims. When drivers fail to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the harm they cause.
What Types of Injuries Do Pedestrians Sustain?
The human body offers no protection against the force of a moving vehicle. Pedestrian accident victims frequently suffer severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and result in long-term complications. Some of the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
When a pedestrian’s head strikes a vehicle or pavement, the resulting trauma can lead to concussions, skull fractures, or permanent cognitive impairment. These injuries may require immediate emergency care, ongoing rehabilitation, and long-term monitoring.
Broken Bones and Fractures
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one pedestrian is killed every 64 minutes in the U.S. Injured victims often sustain:
- Hip and pelvis fractures that limit mobility and require surgical intervention
- Leg and ankle breaks that may necessitate multiple procedures and extended recovery periods
- Arm and wrist fractures from attempting to break a fall or protect vital organs
- Rib fractures that can lead to punctured lungs or other internal complications
These fractures can significantly impact your daily life and may require months of physical therapy. The recovery process often involves multiple medical appointments and potential complications that extend treatment timelines.
Spinal Cord and Soft Tissue Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. These life-altering injuries often require extensive rehabilitation, assistive devices, and modifications to living spaces. The emotional and financial burden of such injuries extends far beyond initial medical treatment.
Soft tissue injuries, internal organ damage, and severe lacerations may not be immediately apparent but can cause significant problems without proper diagnosis and treatment. Road rash and burns from contact with hot pavement or vehicle parts may lead to permanent scarring and require reconstructive surgery.
How Do I Build a Strong Pedestrian Accident Case?
Building a compelling pedestrian accident case requires thorough documentation and strategic legal action. The strength of your claim depends on the evidence you gather and how effectively you present your case. Immediate medical attention ensures you receive proper treatment for your injuries and creates medical records that document the extent of your injuries.
Gathering evidence at the accident scene provides crucial support for your claim. Take photographs of the accident location, including:
- Crosswalks
- Traffic signals
- Road conditions
- Any visible injuries
Collect contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur. Their statements can corroborate your version of events and counter any claims made by the driver or insurance company.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Pedestrian Accident in Lawrence?
Pedestrian accident victims may pursue several types of compensation to address the full scope of their damages. Economic damages cover quantifiable financial losses resulting from the accident. Medical expenses form the foundation of most claims, while property damage compensation addresses destroyed personal belongings.
Victims may recover compensation for:
- Emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgery, medication, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity if injuries prevent you from working
- Transportation costs for medical appointments and home accessibility modifications
- Destroyed personal items such as clothing, phones, or other belongings you were carrying
Non-economic damages acknowledge the intangible ways the accident has affected your life. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical discomfort and emotional distress you’ve endured. Loss of enjoyment of life damages recognize that your injuries may prevent you from participating in activities you once loved.
Contact an Experienced Lawrence Pedestrian Accident Lawyer at Hollis Law Firm
Recovering from a pedestrian accident involves more than physical healing. The financial strain of medical bills, lost income, and ongoing care needs can overwhelm families already dealing with trauma and uncertainty. Our lawyer at Hollis Law Firm has the experience and dedication necessary to pursue the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Time limits apply to filing pedestrian accident claims in Kansas and Missouri, making prompt action essential. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin building your case, preserving evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf. Complete our contact form to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you seek the justice you deserve.