Pedestrian Accidents
Tucson Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Helping Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Tucson and Beyond
When a motor vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the injuries are often severe and can even be fatal. If you or a loved one has been hit by a car while walking, you are likely facing overwhelming consequences. You may be unable to return to work, and you may be facing significant medical bills. In addition, you might be in severe pain and suffering from emotional trauma.
At Rafi Law Group, our Tucson pedestrian accident attorney understands how devastating these injuries can be. We are committed to helping you recover the compensation you need to heal and move forward. We can handle every aspect of your injury claim, so you can focus on your recovery.
Call (623) 207-1555 or contact us online to get started with a free consultation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Tucson?
Motorists have a legal duty to drive safely and watch for pedestrians. Unfortunately, they often fail to do so and strike people who are walking. There are many ways in which a driver can cause a pedestrian accident. Here are some of the most common:
- Distracted driving: When drivers are on their phones, eating, or applying makeup, they are not looking for pedestrians. This can make it difficult for them to see walkers in crosswalks or those walking on the side of the road.
- Speeding: Speeding is one of the most dangerous forms of negligence. When a driver goes over the speed limit, they have less time to stop and can hit pedestrians who are walking near the road or in crosswalks.
- Drowsy driving: When drivers are fatigued, they have slower reaction times and can even fall asleep at the wheel. Drowsy drivers may not see pedestrians until it is too late to stop.
- Drunk driving: Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and may not see pedestrians in the road.
- Failure to yield: Arizona law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks, even if there is no marked crosswalk. When drivers fail to do so, they can strike pedestrians and cause severe injuries.
What Are the Legal Rights of Pedestrians in Arizona?
Because pedestrians are more vulnerable than drivers, Arizona law gives them the right-of-way in many situations. In other words, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians. When a driver fails to do so and hits a pedestrian, the victim can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver.
Under Arizona law, pedestrians have the right-of-way in the following situations:
- When a pedestrian is in a marked crosswalk
- When a pedestrian is in an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection
- When a pedestrian is walking on the sidewalk and is crossing a driveway or an alley
- When a pedestrian is walking in a marked or unmarked crosswalk at a roundabout
- When a pedestrian is walking in the roadway and there is no sidewalk available
When a driver hits a pedestrian in one of these situations, the victim has the right to file a personal injury claim against the driver. If the victim dies from the accident, their family can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver.
What Can I Do to Avoid a Pedestrian Accident in Tucson?
Pedestrian accidents are common in Tucson, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of being hit by a car. Here are some pedestrian safety tips:
- Use crosswalks: Whenever possible, you should use a crosswalk to cross the street. If there is no crosswalk available, you should cross the street at a well-lit area where you can see oncoming traffic.
- Look both ways before crossing: Even if you have the right-of-way, you should always look both ways before crossing the street. You should also make eye contact with drivers before you step out into the road.
- Walk on the sidewalk: If there is a sidewalk available, you should use it. If there is no sidewalk, you should walk facing traffic and as far away from the road as possible.
- Wear bright clothing: When you walk at night, you should always wear bright or reflective clothing. This can help drivers see you and avoid a collision.
How Can a Tucson Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help?
After a pedestrian accident, the insurance company will likely contact you and offer a settlement. They may tell you that you do not need a lawyer to help you with your claim. It is important to remember that the insurance company is not on your side. They are a for-profit business that is looking to protect their bottom line.
When you work with a Tucson pedestrian accident lawyer, we can deal with the insurance company on your behalf. We can review any settlement offers and negotiate with the insurance adjuster. We will never accept a lowball settlement that does not fully compensate you for your injuries.
If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we can file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. We will handle every aspect of your case, from the initial investigation to the final trial. We have the skills and experience to present a compelling case to a jury, and we are not afraid to go to court for you.
Do not let the insurance company take advantage of you. Contact us at (623) 207-1555 today to schedule a free consultation with our Tucson pedestrian accident attorney.