Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Summerville, SC

As a pedestrian, you have the right to feel safe on the streets of Summerville. But when a negligent driver fails to follow traffic laws and injures you, your life can change in an instant. If you got hurt in a pedestrian accident in South Carolina, you need a pedestrian accident lawyer on your side to guide you through the legal process. The Summerville pedestrian accident lawyers at Murphy Crantford Meehan can protect your rights and help you recover fair compensation for your losses.

Our experienced team understands your challenges and is dedicated to helping you find justice. We will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and your pain and suffering. Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on your recovery. Call our Summerville personal injury lawyers today or complete our contact form for a free case review.

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Key South Carolina Pedestrian Laws

South Carolina’s Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways outlines pedestrians’ rights and responsibilities on state roads, as well as the rights and duties of drivers when they encounter pedestrians. Here are the key details to know:

Obedience to Traffic-Control Devices

Pedestrians must follow the instructions of traffic-control devices like signals and signs unless a police officer tells them otherwise.

Local Regulations

Local authorities, through regulations, can strictly require pedestrians to follow traffic-control signals and may prohibit crossing streets in certain areas unless pedestrians use a designated crosswalk.

Right-of-Way in Crosswalks

Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks when there are no traffic signals. This means slowing down or stopping to let pedestrians cross safely. However, pedestrians should not suddenly leave a curb and step into the path of a vehicle.

Using the Right Half of Crosswalks

When possible, pedestrians should keep to the right half of the crosswalk. This simple rule helps maintain an orderly flow of foot traffic and prevents accidents.

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Crossing Outside Crosswalks

Pedestrians crossing at places other than marked or unmarked crosswalks at intersections must yield to vehicles on the road. Additionally, crossing between adjacent intersections with traffic signals should only occur within marked crosswalks.

Walking Along Highways

Pedestrians should use sidewalks when available. If no sidewalk is present, they should walk on the shoulder as far from the road as possible. On roads without shoulders, the law says pedestrians must walk near the edge of the road and face traffic.

Pedestrians on Freeways

Walking on freeways is prohibited except in an emergency or when a pedestrian performs official duties.

Soliciting Rides or Business

It is illegal for pedestrians to stand in roadways to solicit rides, employment, business, or contributions.

Pedestrian accidents often fall under personal injury cases, highlighting the legal implications and the importance of seeking experienced legal representation.

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A history of success in Truck Accident cases

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Summerville

While pedestrian accidents occur in Summerville for many reasons, there’s one underlying factor in most of these crashes: Driver negligence, which often results in serious injuries. Here are a few examples of how negligent drivers can hit a pedestrian and cause a collision:

TESTIMONIALS

$2,350,000

Tractor Trailer collision

$610,000

Boating Accident

$630,000

Tractor Trailer collision

$1,272,800

Single Car Collision

$650,000

Premise Liability Case (Fall from broken chair)

Summerville, SC, Pedestrian Accident Statistics

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety reports that 36 pedestrians were involved in crashes in Dorchester County in 2022, highlighting the rising incidence of Summerville pedestrian accidents. There’s no indication of how many of these accidents occurred in Summerville, but officials report that five pedestrians died and another nine suffered suspected severe injuries in these collisions. Another 21 pedestrians suffered “possible” or “suspected minor injuries” in crashes that year.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian injuries often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have compared to vehicle occupants. Therefore, the force of a vehicle striking a person can lead to a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects. Here are some common injuries pedestrians suffer in collisions with cars or other vehicles:

Head Injuries

Head Injuries: Pedestrians hit by vehicles can sustain traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from the impact. These injuries can occur if the head strikes the windshield, hood, or pavement. TBIs range from comparatively mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially leading to cognitive issues, memory loss, and long-term disabilities.

Fractures

The impact of colliding with a vehicle can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries, and can lead to prolonged recovery periods or permanent movement disabilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a collision can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries can significantly impact a person’s mobility and quality of life, as injured pedestrians often require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs, can occur from the blunt force trauma of a pedestrian accident. These injuries are frequently life-threatening and demand immediate medical attention.

Lacerations and Abrasions

Pedestrians may suffer cuts, bruises, and scrapes from contact with the vehicle or the ground. While some of these injuries might seem minor, they can lead to infections and permanent scarring.

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Compensation for Injured Pedestrians in Summerville

Your compensation in a pedestrian accident depends on your accident-related expenses, the severity and duration of your injuries, and other factors. The key to maximizing your compensation is to work with an experienced and driven Summerville pedestrian accident lawyer. It is also crucial to file a pedestrian accident claim within the statute of limitations to ensure your right to compensation. Your compensation can include money for:

Deadline to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in South Carolina

South Carolina law gives injured pedestrians three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim against the driver who hit them. If you wait too long to act, the courts will likely dismiss your case, regardless of its merits.

Another reason to act quickly after a pedestrian accident is that critical evidence can deteriorate or disappear within days or weeks of a crash. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident and preserve evidence while you heal, which gives you a better chance of recovering maximum compensation for your losses.

How to Protect Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident

After a pedestrian accident, protecting your rights is crucial for securing fair compensation. Here are the steps you should take:

What Our Summerville, SC, Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Can Do for You

At Murphy Crantford Meehan, our pedestrian accidents attorney in Summerville is dedicated to helping you through every step of your claim. We will handle all the details, including investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and negotiating with the insurer on your behalf. Our goal is to secure fair compensation for your losses.

While you focus on healing, we can protect your rights and fight tirelessly on your behalf. Our team will keep you informed throughout the process, providing compassionate support and experience-based guidance.

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Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Summerville, SC, Now

It’s crucial to act quickly after Summerville pedestrian accidents if you want to recover maximum compensation for your losses. Call Murphy Crantford Meehan now or reach out online for a free case evaluation.

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