Pedestrian Accidents: Protecting Your Rights in Indiana
Pedestrian accidents can result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to motor vehicles. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle in Indiana, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect them. At Pathway Legal Group, we help pedestrian accident victims across Indiana pursue the compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding
Failing to yield at crosswalks
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Disobeying traffic signals or signs
Poor visibility due to weather or lighting conditions
Rights of Pedestrians in Indiana Under Indiana law, pedestrians have specific rights, especially at crosswalks and intersections:
Drivers must yield the right of way to pedestrians within marked or unmarked crosswalks.
Drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians.
Pedestrians must also obey traffic control devices and avoid darting into traffic unpredictably.
Key Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and safety come first. Prompt medical treatment also creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Call the Police
A police report documenting the accident is critical for any insurance claim or legal action.
Gather Evidence
If possible, collect witness information, take photos of the scene, and record details about the driver and vehicle involved.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Avoid making statements about fault to drivers, witnesses, or insurance adjusters.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Early legal representation ensures your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and insurance companies don't take advantage of you.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims You may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Permanent disability or disfigurement
Comparative Fault in Indiana Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found partially responsible for the accident, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages.
How Pathway Legal Group Can Help At Pathway Legal Group, we bring nearly a decade of experience defending insurance companies. We know the tactics insurers use to deny or devalue pedestrian accident claims, and we now use that insider knowledge to advocate for injury victims across every county in Indiana.
Pedestrian accidents require immediate action to protect your rights and preserve crucial evidence. Call Pathway Legal Group today at (317) 588-7400 for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the path to recovery with the skill, dedication, and compassion you deserve.
