Dallas Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Injured by a Negligent Motorist While Walking the Streets of Dallas, TX?

Pedestrian accidents are a critical concern in Dallas due to the city's bustling urban environment. Pedestrians often face risks from distracted drivers, complex traffic patterns, and unsafe crosswalks. In Texas, the law protects pedestrians, allowing them to seek compensation for injuries caused by negligent drivers. It is essential to understand the laws and rights concerning pedestrian accidents to ensure proper legal action.

Statistics show that pedestrian accidents have remained a significant issue in Dallas, with numerous fatalities and injuries each year. Pedestrian accident victims need knowledgeable representation to navigate the complexities of personal injury law in Dallas.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Dallas, TX, you may be facing a long and challenging recovery. At Lyons & Simmons, LLP, we understand how devastating these accidents can be, and we are here to help. Our team of experienced Dallas pedestrian accident attorneys is committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

To schedule a free consultation, call (844) 297-8898 or contact us online today.

What is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident occurs when a person who is walking, jogging, or otherwise moving on foot is struck by a vehicle. These accidents can happen anywhere, from crosswalks and sidewalks to parking lots and busy intersections. Unfortunately, pedestrians do not have the same level of protection as individuals in vehicles, making them more vulnerable to injury. In fact, pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and in the worst cases, death.

Texas Pedestrian Laws

Texas has specific laws in place to protect pedestrians. Understanding these laws is crucial when it comes to proving liability in pedestrian accident cases. Here are some key pedestrian laws in Texas:

• Right of Way: In Texas, pedestrians have the right of way when they are crossing at a crosswalk. Drivers are required to yield to pedestrians who are in a crosswalk. However, pedestrians must also exercise caution and ensure it is safe to cross before entering the roadway.
• Jaywalking: While pedestrians generally have the right of way in crosswalks, it is important to note that jaywalking (crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk) can be considered illegal. If a pedestrian is not using a crosswalk or obeying traffic signals, they may be partially or fully at fault for the accident.
• Sidewalks: Pedestrians should always use sidewalks where available. When sidewalks are not present, pedestrians are expected to walk on the left side of the roadway, facing oncoming traffic. Failure to follow these rules may impact the outcome of a legal claim.
• School Zones: Special rules apply in school zones. Drivers are required to reduce speed when approaching school zones, and pedestrians, especially children, should be especially cautious in these areas.
• Pedestrian Signals: Pedestrians must follow the traffic signals at intersections. Crossing when the signal is red or "Do Not Walk" can result in an accident and may impact liability.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for a wide range of reasons. However, certain factors and behaviors are more likely to contribute to these accidents. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: With the rise of smartphones and other distractions, many drivers are not paying full attention to the road. Texting, talking on the phone, or looking at GPS can cause drivers to fail to notice pedestrians.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver's ability to stop in time to avoid a pedestrian. In busy urban areas like Dallas, pedestrians can unexpectedly step into the roadway, and drivers must be able to react quickly to prevent an accident.
• Running Red Lights: Drivers who run red lights or fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks can cause accidents. This is especially common at busy intersections in urban areas.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections, which can lead to dangerous accidents.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use impairs a driver's ability to react quickly and make sound judgments, increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Low visibility conditions, such as bad weather, fog, or nighttime driving, can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians. Pedestrians may also be at fault if they are wearing dark clothing or crossing in poorly lit areas.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, lane changes without signaling, and road rage can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
• Pedestrian Inattention: Sometimes pedestrians themselves may be at fault for accidents. Distracted walking, failure to use crosswalks, or walking while intoxicated can all lead to accidents.