In 2022, there were 183 pedestrian fatalities and 1,226 pedestrian injuries in Louisiana, according to the most recent data from the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission. Serious injuries and fatalities among pedestrians are tragic because they are almost always preventable.
When a driver’s negligence is to blame, injured pedestrians have the right to pursue compensation for the costs of their injury. The Shreveport pedestrian accident lawyers at Dudley DeBosier are proud to stand up for the rights of injured pedestrians.
Our team handles pedestrian accident claims in Shreveport, and we are well-equipped to fight for your rights and help you seek the compensation you deserve. We know what it takes to effectively investigate your case and to build a strong argument on your behalf.
Choose Dudley DeBosier as your pedestrian injury lawyers and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Seeking Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Being injured in a pedestrian accident can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Understanding your rights and the process of seeking compensation is crucial for ensuring you receive the support you need to recover.
Types of Compensation You Can Seek:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care
- Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses related to physical therapy and other necessary treatments for recovery
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and any impact on your future earning capacity
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident
Building a Strong Claim:
- Gathering Evidence: It’s essential to collect and present solid evidence to support your claim. This includes medical records, eyewitness statements, accident reports, and expert testimonies.
- Proving Damages: Demonstrating the full extent of your injuries and the impact on your life is key to a successful claim. This involves detailed documentation of all losses, from medical expenses to the emotional toll.
Dealing With Insurance Companies:
- Negotiating Fair Settlements: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. Having experienced negotiators on your side ensures that your claim is taken seriously and that you receive fair compensation.
- Advocating for Your Rights: A strong legal team will handle all communications with the insurance company, relieving you of stress and allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Understanding the compensation process and having a knowledgeable team to guide you can make a significant difference in the outcome of your pedestrian accident claim. By thoroughly documenting your injuries and working with experts to build your case, you can pursue the justice and financial support you deserve.
Louisiana Pedestrian Accident Laws
In Louisiana, drivers are required to stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing the road within a crosswalk when no traffic signals are present or functioning.
This law ensures that pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked and unmarked crosswalks, provided they do not step into the path of an oncoming vehicle too suddenly, making it impossible for the driver to stop in time.
Additionally, if a vehicle has already stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross, other drivers approaching from behind are prohibited from overtaking and passing the stopped vehicle.
However, this rule does not apply where a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing is available for use. Understanding these laws is crucial for both drivers and pedestrians to ensure safety on the roads.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Shreveport
Pedestrian accidents in Shreveport can occur for a variety of reasons, many of which are preventable. Here are some of the most frequent factors contributing to pedestrian accidents:
- Driver Distraction: Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technologies, diverts a driver’s attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian.
- Alcohol Impairment: Both drivers and pedestrians under the influence of alcohol are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Impaired judgment, delayed reaction times, and poor decision-making contribute significantly to these incidents. Nearly half of all pedestrian deaths are related to alcohol use.
- Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit are less likely to see pedestrians in time to stop, especially in residential areas or near crosswalks, where pedestrians are more likely to be present.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections are a common cause of accidents. This is particularly dangerous when drivers are turning or navigating busy intersections.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur in low-light conditions, such as at dawn, dusk, or night, or during adverse weather conditions when visibility is reduced. Pedestrians wearing dark clothing are especially at risk.
- Jaywalking: Pedestrians crossing streets outside of designated crosswalks or unexpectedly stepping into traffic can lead to accidents, as drivers may not be prepared to stop.
- Aggressive Driving: Behaviors such as speeding, running red lights, and reckless driving increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents, as aggressive drivers are less likely to observe traffic laws and pedestrian right-of-way.
By being aware of these common causes, both drivers and pedestrians can take proactive steps to avoid accidents and ensure safer streets in Shreveport.
How Dudley DeBosier Can Help
At Dudley DeBosier, we understand the devastating impact a pedestrian accident can have on your life. With decades of experience and a proven track record of helping over 58,000 clients recover more than $1.2 billion. Past results are in no way an indication of future results. However, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of your claim. We treat every case with the seriousness it deserves, taking the time to understand your unique situation and the challenges you face.
When you choose Dudley DeBosier, you’re choosing a firm that values personalized service and treats you like family. Our nearly 200 professionals are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the maximum compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to trial, we are ready to stand by your side and advocate for the best possible outcome.
Serving Shreveport and the surrounding areas, we have the resources and expertise to thoroughly investigate your pedestrian accident, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that all aspects of your damages—medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more—are fully accounted for in your claim.
Contact Our Shreveport Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
At Dudley DeBosier, we don’t settle for less when it comes to our clients. We understand the challenges and complexities that come with pedestrian accident cases. Our dedicated team of Shreveport pedestrian injury lawyers has the knowledge and experience to guide you through the legal process, providing compassionate support every step of the way.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
