Pedestrian Rights: What You Need to Know After a Car Wreck in Brownsville

Javier Villarreal

Oct 4, 2023

We’ve all been there – walking down the street, minding our own business, when suddenly, a car accident happens right in front of us. This is more common than you’d think in Brownsville, San Benito, Harlingen and other communities here in South Texas.

The best personal injury attorney is in Brownsville, as this pedestrian gets her cast attended to.

It’s a frightening experience, and the last thing on your mind is probably suing someone. After all, you’re just a pedestrian, right? Wrong. Pedestrians have rights too, and if you’ve been injured by a car, it’s essential to know that you can take action to protect those rights. A pedestrian accident lawyer here in Brownsville can be a real asset in your struggle.

The Vulnerability of Pedestrians

Picture this: You’re strolling down the sidewalk, enjoying the fresh air, when a car comes out of nowhere, striking you. It’s a terrifying scenario, and sadly, it’s not uncommon. Pedestrians are some of the most vulnerable road users out there. Unlike those in cars, they lack the protection of metal and airbags. Instead, they rely on their own two feet to get them around safely. As you may know, we had a catastrophic pedestrian accident in Brownsville in May 2023.

Common Pedestrian Injuries

When a car collides with a pedestrian, the consequences can be severe. Pedestrians can suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering trauma. Some of the most common pedestrian injuries after a car wreck include:

Broken Bones: The force of a car hitting a pedestrian can easily result in broken bones, such as fractured legs, arms, or ribs.
Head Injuries: Pedestrians often strike their heads on the pavement or the car itself, leading to concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries.
Internal Injuries: The impact can cause internal injuries like organ damage, internal bleeding, or damage to the spinal cord.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions are also common, affecting muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Emotional Trauma: Don’t forget about the emotional toll. Car accidents can leave pedestrians with lasting anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Your Rights as a Pedestrian

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter. Pedestrians have rights under Texas law, and these rights extend to situations where they’ve been injured in a car accident. You might think it’s hopeless to take action against a car driver, but that’s far from the truth. Here’s what you need to know:

Driver Responsibility: Drivers have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care and avoid causing harm to pedestrians. If they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for the injuries they cause.
Insurance Coverage: In many cases, the driver’s insurance may cover the pedestrian’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Hit-and-Run Cases: Even if the driver flees the scene, there may still be options for compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or other avenues.
Comparative Negligence: Keep in mind that in some cases, both the pedestrian and the driver may share some degree of fault. Texas follows a comparative negligence system, which means your compensation could be reduced if you were partially responsible for the accident. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t seek compensation at all.

Taking Action for Your Rights

If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian in a car accident, don’t just accept it as fate. You have rights, and you deserve justice. The first step is to consult with a personal injury lawyer who is passionate about “pedestrian rights.” Here in Brownsville, Texas, there are legal professionals who specialize in cases just like yours.

A dedicated personal injury lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents will:

Assess Your Case: They’ll review the details of the accident, collect evidence, and determine the strength of your claim.
Handle Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. Your lawyer will negotiate with them on your behalf to ensure you get fair compensation.
Fight for Your Rights: If a settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.

Remember, you don’t have to face this journey alone. A skilled personal injury attorney can be your advocate, helping you navigate the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

Pedestrians have rights, too, and they should never be passive in the face of injury caused by a car wreck. If you find yourself in such a situation, reach out to a dedicated personal injury lawyer in Brownsville, Texas. Stand up for your rights and seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Your safety matters, and so do your rights as a pedestrian.