People deserve to be able to walk safely down all public walkways and sidewalks. Regrettably, fatal traffic accidents involving pedestrians occur every single day. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration pedestrian injuries in a traffic accident occur every 7.5 minutes. The California Office of Traffic Safety reports that in 2018, there were 893 pedestrian fatalities across the State of California.
If you have lost a loved one as a result of a fatal pedestrian accident, legal recourse may be available through a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver. In a successful case, financial compensation can be obtained for losses including medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of relationship.
The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration reports that the following issues typically lead to pedestrian fatalities:
Poor Compliance with Traffic Laws - Pedestrians are generally safer when all those on the road are complying with traffic laws. Common examples of noncompliance can include drivers who fail to yield the right of way for pedestrians, run red lights, or drive while distracted.
Inadequate Separation between Motorists and Pedestrians - Pedestrians are typically safer when separated from moving vehicles. When a roadway is inadequately constructed or there is insufficient lighting, pedestrians are placed at risk of being hit by a driver. The agency further reports that in 2016, 75 percent of pedestrians who were fatally injured were struck by drivers when there was low visibility.
Driving While Under the Influence - According to a traffic safety report published by the California Department of Public Health, between 2007 and 2013, 35 percent of pedestrian fatalities involved alcohol consumption on behalf of either pedestrian or driver involved.
A successful wrongful death claim generally involves proving recklessness, intentional wrongdoing, or negligence on behalf of the driver. If the driver of the fatal accident was found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, the driver will likely be presumed responsible for causing the accident that led to the fatal injuries. All drivers in the state have a legal obligation to drive safely to prevent the injury of another person. If the driver was driving recklessly, he can be considered negligent and could be held responsible for the losses caused by the accident.
Under state law, proving a case requires that the plaintiff demonstrate the negligence committed by the driver. The following are critical elements of a wrongful death case:
Losing a loved one in a fatal accident is tragic. While nothing can bring back a loved one, filing a wrongful death lawsuit can help bring justice to the victims. If your family member was fatally wounded due to careless driving of another, discuss your case with a qualified wrongful death attorney today. A proficient attorney will help you recover the damages you are owed.
The personal injury attorneys at Mary Alexander & Associates, P.C. are highly skilled in pedestrian accidents that result in wrongful death cases. The compassionate team understands the difficulties these tragic accidents can bring to those who have unexpectedly lost a loved one. Consequently, the firm is dedicated in helping grieving family members in taking the right legal steps that will help bring them justice. Consider contacting the firm today for a free case evaluation.
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Mary Alexander is a highly esteemed personal injury lawyer in San Francisco, known for securing some of the largest and most high-profile verdicts and settlements in California. Her exceptional legal work has earned her national recognition for her advocacy of consumer rights and multiple awards from legal publications, clients, and other lawyers.Ms. Alexander has served as the President of both the Association of Trial Lawyers of America and Consumer Attorneys of California. Her lobbying efforts and commitment to consumer rights have been matched by her success in representing her clients.Mary's outstanding record of success includes negotiating a $305 million settlement on behalf of ten California counties against paint companies involved in a nearly 20-year lawsuit over lead paint. She was also responsible for securing a $45 million verdict for a victim who became paralyzed for life due to a driver's negligence, as well as multiple multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients harmed by cancer-causing chemicals, defective products, and accidents.However, it is not just Mary's impressive results that set her apart. Her unique combination of scientific expertise and compassionate approach to her clients' cases make her a sought-after trial attorney. Mary's ability to simplify complex concepts and use high-tech courtroom exhibits to help juries understand her arguments has also been widely recognized.Mary is a graduate of Santa Clara University... View full business profile here: Mary Alexander
