How Pedestrian Accidents Happen & What to Do Next
Pedestrian accidents can happen in an instant, but the consequences often last a lifetime. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians are especially vulnerable to serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage. At Wyndham Law Firm, LLC, we understand how overwhelming it can feel after being struck by a car. Knowing how these accidents happen, and what to do next, can make a significant difference in protecting your health and your legal rights.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Charleston’s busy streets, crosswalks, and intersections create daily interactions between drivers and pedestrians. Unfortunately, many crashes occur because drivers fail to exercise proper care. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving, including texting or adjusting in-car technology
- Failure to yield at crosswalks or intersections
- Speeding in residential or high-foot-traffic areas
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Poor visibility at night or during bad weather
Even when pedestrians follow traffic signals and use marked crosswalks, negligent drivers can cause devastating harm. In many cases, these accidents are entirely preventable.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Charleston Pedestrian Accident
If you are hit by a vehicle, your priority should always be your health and safety. Call 911 immediately so law enforcement and emergency medical personnel can respond. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries, including concussions and internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
If you are physically able, try to:
- Get the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details
- Speak with witnesses and gather their contact information
- Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved
- Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements to insurance companies
Prompt documentation can be critical in supporting your claim later.
Understanding Liability in Pedestrian Injury Cases
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced. However, many pedestrian crashes are caused primarily by driver negligence.
An experienced Charleston pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the circumstances of your case, review traffic camera footage if available, interview witnesses, and work to establish liability. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment costs, and pain and suffering.
Contact a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
After a pedestrian accident, you may be facing mounting medical bills, time away from work, and uncertainty about what comes next. You do not have to navigate this process alone. Wyndham Law Firm, LLC is dedicated to helping injured pedestrians in Charleston pursue the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident, contact our Charleston office today to schedule a consultation. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.