Every year, countless individuals suffer serious injuries in pedestrian accidents caused by negligent drivers. At Mooney Law, we are committed to standing up for the rights of injured pedestrians, helping them secure the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be feeling overwhelmed, unsure of what to do next, and worried about the future. We’re here to provide clarity and guidance. Our team of experienced accident attorneys in Maryland is ready to fight for you every step of the way.
The Reality of Pedestrian Accidents in Maryland
Cars, cyclists, and pedestrians share Maryland’s roads. While the state has tried improving pedestrian safety, accidents remain too common. According to data from the Maryland Department of Transportation, over 3,000 pedestrian accidents occur annually in the state, resulting in hundreds of fatalities and serious injuries.
Pedestrian accidents are often more severe than other collisions because pedestrians have no protection against the impact of a vehicle. This can lead to catastrophic injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and contusions
These injuries can result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. As a dedicated Maryland pedestrian accident lawyer, we understand the impact these accidents have on victims and their families.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Most pedestrian accidents are preventable and are often caused by driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice pedestrians.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way at crosswalks and intersections put pedestrians at significant risk.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drug impairment reduce reaction times and judgment, leading to preventable accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Nighttime driving, bad weather, or poorly lit areas can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians.
At Mooney Law, we thoroughly investigate each accident’s circumstances to identify the responsible parties and build a strong case on your behalf.
Understanding Maryland Pedestrian Laws
Maryland has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians and promote safe interactions with motorists. As pedestrian accident attorneys, we often rely on these statutes to advocate for our clients.
Pedestrian Right-of-Way
Under Maryland law, drivers are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. This includes both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Failure to do so can result in citations for the driver and significant liability in the event of an accident.
Duties of Pedestrians
While pedestrians have rights, they also have responsibilities. Maryland law requires pedestrians to obey traffic signals and avoid crossing roads outside of designated crosswalks when crosswalks are available. However, even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still be eligible for compensation under Maryland’s contributory negligence rules.
Contributory Negligence in Maryland
Maryland is one of the few states that follow the contributory negligence doctrine. This means that if a pedestrian is found even slightly at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering damages.
Because of this strict standard, having an experienced accident attorney in Maryland on your side is crucial to proving that the driver was entirely at fault.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what we recommend:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact Law Enforcement: A police report can be important evidence in your case.
- Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicle.
- Obtain Witness Information: Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Let us communicate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Our team at Mooney Law will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively.
Why You Need a Top-Rated Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Maryland
Pedestrian accident cases can be complex. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto the pedestrian, especially under Maryland’s contributory negligence laws. That’s why having a top-rated pedestrian accident attorney in Maryland is essential to achieving a successful outcome.
At Mooney Law, we handle every aspect of your case, including:
- Investigating the accident to gather evidence
- Working with experts to reconstruct the incident
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached
We are dedicated to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients, including coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Real Results, Real Impact
These results reflect our commitment to our clients and our reputation as a trusted accident attorney in Maryland.
What Sets Us Apart
At Mooney Law, we understand that every case is unique. That’s why we take the time to get to know you, understand your goals, and tailor our approach to your needs. Our compassionate yet aggressive representation has earned us recognition as a trusted Maryland pedestrian accident lawyer.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Evidence can fade, witnesses may become harder to locate, and the insurance company may try to pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Mooney Law today to schedule a free consultation with a pedestrian accident attorney in Maryland. We’ll review your case, answer your questions, and help you take the first step toward justice.
Your fight is our fight. Let us help you move forward with confidence.