At some point, everyone is a pedestrian. This concept has been used by several pedestrian organizations to increase the visibility of those who walk near and along streets as well as to remind drivers to look for pedestrians. But despite the fact that everyone is a pedestrian, and despite the fact that pedestrians are legally authorized to walk along sidewalks, accidents between these walkers and vehicles continue to occur in Phoenix and the rest of the Valley.
Pedestrian accidents claimed 154 lives in Arizona in 2011 and another 1,253 people were injured in crashes. In addition to these victims, countless friends, family members, and coworkers were affected by these collisions, many of which resulted in the need for medical assistance.
When a pedestrian is hurt in an accident and that accident was due to an error or negligence on the part of an individual involved, Arizona law may allow the victim or the victim’s family members to seek a recovery for the damages incurred, including medical and surgical expenses, lost wages, and even payment for pain and suffering. Speaking with a lawyer who handles pedestrian accidents and other personal injury cases may help you understand whether you have a valid claim, and if so, what legal relief may be available to you.
Unfortunately a tragic accident occurred last night in Phoenix that claimed the life of one person involved. Police responded to the scene of the crash near Thomas and 32nd Street and determined that a man in a wheelchair had been trying to cross the intersection when he was struck by a car. The man was reportedly crossing at an intersection and in a crosswalk but the crosswalk was not marked. His age and name have not yet been released.
A driver that approached the intersection allegedly struck the man, leading to injuries that caused his death. At this time, the driver has not been ticketed or cited but police have stated that their investigation into the incident is ongoing at this time.
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, or elsewhere in Arizona, you do not have to suffer in silence. You may be entitled to financial relief to provide you compensation, regardless of whether the at-fault driver received a ticket in the accident.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we have represented many pedestrians and their families who were hurt through the negligence of others. We have fought for the rights of our clients and we are ready to fight for you.
If you have been hurt in a collision, call the legal team at Abels & Annes, P.C. today. We have a licensed lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days week to take your call toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191. We offer all victims a free case consultation without any obligation and everything discussed will be kept confidential. If we represent you in your case, we will never charge a fee unless we make a recovery on your behalf.
Prior Blog Entry:
Common 4th of July Injuries May Affect Phoenix Residents, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 7, 2014.
Resource:
Wheelchair-bound man killed while crossing street, Fox 10 News, published July 8, 2014.