New Orleans is a popular place for culture and tourism. Many areas around the city are easier to walk in rather than drive. You might have chosen to walk because it is a quick way to visit different shops and restaurants. However, what happens when a fun time in the city turns into an unfortunate accident on the road?
If you were walking and then struck by a vehicle, a New Orleans pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to help you fight for compensation. A pedestrian accident can cause severe damages and injuries that may significantly disrupt your life. Call (504) 777-7777 today to start working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers on your case.
Pedestrians May Be at Risk When Walking Around New Orleans
According to NOLA, Louisiana was listed as the third most dangerous state for pedestrians in 2017. New Orleans and the Metairie area were the second most dangerous metro area in the state.
The University of New Orleans Transportation Institute (UNOTI) last published its crash study report in New Orleans in 2012. Of people injured in pedestrian accidents, they noticed trends that over half of these accidents occurred during daylight hours, and a quarter took place in the French Quarter.
Common Pedestrian Injuries
Even if a vehicle was not going at high speed, it can still cause a pedestrian to sustain severe injuries if they collide. Nothing protects pedestrians from oncoming vehicles. While the driver may be protected by the vehicle they are in, a pedestrian has nothing.
Some common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Amputations
- Brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Cuts and bruising
Many of these injuries might require extensive medical treatment and even physical therapy. These injuries might also be completely life-altering. A lawyer may help you pursue compensation to cover these costs.
For a free legal consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer serving New Orleans, call (504) 777-7777
Your Lawyer May Help You Determine the Negligent Party
Determining negligence is not always as easy as it might seem. Your case may get complicated if the other party claims you were partially negligent for the accident.
As stated in the Louisiana Civil Code (CC) §2323, if you are deemed partially negligent for an accident, your compensation may be reduced. A New Orleans pedestrian accident lawyer can help you by supporting your case with evidence that shows how the other party was at fault for your accident. For example, they might show surveillance footage that captured the accident.
A lawyer can protect your rights and fight for your compensation. You do not have to fight on your own. Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers may communicate with the insurance companies and lawyers on your behalf. Call today at (504) 777-7777 for a free consultation.
Compensatory Awards
The expenses from a pedestrian accident can add up quickly. What started out as a peaceful day walking the streets might have turned into a life-changing mishap. If someone injured you in a car accident while you were walking or crossing the street, you might be entitled to collect multiple damages. A lawyer can help you fight for compensation to cover your:
- Medical expenses
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Loss of income
- Decrease in income
New Orleans Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me (504) 777-7777
How Drivers Can Prevent Pedestrian Accidents
Many pedestrian accidents could have been prevented. Reckless or distracted driving often plays a huge part in pedestrian accidents in New Orleans, given the nightlife scene. There are a few things drivers can do to help avoid pedestrian accidents:
Do Not Drive Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is a danger to yourself and others around you. For instance, your response time may decrease, which may make it difficult for you to stop your vehicle if someone crosses the road in front of you.
Drive Slower When Pedestrians Are Present
When streets and sidewalks are busy, drive with caution. You never know when someone will start to cross the street without looking. Driving slower may give you extra response time that could mean the difference between life and death.
Watch for Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can make it more difficult to stop quickly when a pedestrian crosses the street. On a rainy day, you must be prepared to stop at a farther distance than normal. Wet streets can reduce traction between the road and your tires, causing you to slide. In addition, a particularly sunny day may reduce visibility in the streets and sidewalks around you.
Be Patient
New Orleans can be a remarkably busy and exciting city. The streets are often filled with people and vehicles. Be patient with those around you. Speeding to get from place to place can result in disaster. Elderly people, young children, and intoxicated pedestrians might take longer to cross the street. Being patient when they are crossing can prevent potential pedestrian accidents.
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How Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Can Help
A New Orleans pedestrian accident lawyer can help you when disaster strikes. In Louisiana, you have a limited time to file a personal injury lawsuit. The sooner you contact Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, then the sooner we can get started fighting for your compensation. We can help you gather evidence for your claim or lawsuit and support you throughout the litigation process. We can manage your case while you focus on your recovery.
Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can take over the communications between other lawyers and insurance companies so that you do not have to carry that legal burden on your shoulders. Call (504) 777-7777 now for a free case review. You can discuss your pedestrian accident with one of our team members, who can also answer any other questions you might have about your potential case.
Call or text (504) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form