How To Protect Yourself And Your Rights To Compensation After A Sandusky Pedestrian Crash
Walking is good for your health, but it can prove dangerous on local streets. Whether you are walking downtown or in local neighborhoods, pedestrian crashes pose significant risks.
If a driver struck you or someone in your family, our experienced Sandusky personal injury lawyers are here to help. Find out why these crashes often happen and your rights to compensation.
Common Causes Of Pedestrian Crashes In Sandusky
The Ohio Department of Transportation reports that over 2,000 pedestrian crashes happen throughout the state each year. With little to protect them, injuries suffered by pedestrians tend to be severe and potentially life-threatening.
Sadly, these collisions are largely preventable, but for the negligence of the motorists involved. Reckless driving behavior that puts Sandusky pedestrians at risk includes:
- Distracted driving, including cell phone use, causes drivers to miss pedestrians in crosswalks and along roadsides.
- Failure to yield at marked crosswalks or intersections, where pedestrians have the legal right of way.
- Speeding dramatically reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time when a pedestrian is present.
- Drowsy driving or being under the influence.
- Reversing out of parking lots or driveways without checking first.
Under the Ohio Revised Code (Section 2315.33), pedestrians have the right to hold the at-fault driver accountable, even if their own actions are partly to blame.
Compensation Available In A Sandusky Pedestrian Crash Claim
Pedestrian crash injuries are often severe. Broken bones, internal injuries, and injuries involving the brain, back, neck, or spinal cord are common and can cause long-term disabilities. While pedestrians have a legal duty to take precautions to reduce the risks, such as crossing only at designated intersections, they have the right to hold reckless drivers accountable.
You may be entitled to compensation either by filing a claim against the at-fault driver through their insurance or by taking your case to court. Common types of compensation available include:
- Payment for current and future injury-related medical care, including emergency treatment, surgery, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages for time missed from work, as well as any projected reduced earnings if your injuries cause long-term impairments.
- Payment for the pain, suffering, and emotional distress the crash or your injuries cause.
- Lost enjoyment in life when your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you previously valued.
- Loss of consortium compensates a spouse or family member for the impact your injuries have on your relationship.
To protect your rights in a claim, speak with an experienced Sandusky personal injury lawyer before making any statements to insurers or signing any documents.
Consult Our Experienced Sandusky Pedestrian Crash Lawyers Today
Pedestrian accidents in Sandusky can cause devastating injuries that have the potential to impact victims and their families for years afterward. At Murray & Murray, our Ohio pedestrian crash lawyers protect your rights and provide the personalized, professional legal representation needed to get compensation.
We serve clients throughout Sandusky, Ohio, and the surrounding areas. Reach out today and request a consultation.
Sources:
dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/statepatrol.ohio.gov/links/Pedestrian_Bulletin_2023.pdf
codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-2315.33