Third-party liability in a two-person car accident

On behalf of Noland Law Firm, LLC posted in car accidents on Sunday, April 3, 2016.

It is understood in today’s world that both drivers and pedestrians are responsible for their own safety and the safety of those around them. Accidents, however, do happen, even to the most careful of drivers and pedestrians.

Anytime a multi-thousand-pound vehicle comes into contact with an unprotected human body, there is a good chance injuries are going to occur. Depending on a number of factors, including the age of the person hit and the speed at which the car was going, these injuries can range from damage to muscles or bones to life-threatening brain injuries.

While accidents frequently occur because of irresponsible behavior on the part of either the driver or the pedestrian, sometimes neither party is at fault. Pedestrians at crosswalks know that when the “walking person” sign appears, it’s safe for them to cross. Sometimes, however, the pedestrian lights and the traffic lights have been mistimed and both car and pedestrian are simultaneously given the green light. The driver is not going to think to scan for pedestrians and the pedestrian is not going to think to scan for cars. In this instance, a car may injure a pedestrian as both received permission to go at the same time. Cars may come around a blind curve that hides a pedestrian crosswalk. Signage, trees and utility poles may hide crucial signage that alert drivers to the possibility of pedestrians in the area.

Proving liability in a car vs. pedestrian accident is not straightforward. If you are a pedestrian and have been injured in an accident, you may wish to consult with an attorney. A qualified attorney can learn the facts, investigate where the accident occurred and determine if you are entitled to compensation.