Drivers commonly know that in many situations, pedestrians have the right-of-way over vehicles where authorized by law. This means that drivers are required to let pedestrians proceed first before advancing their vehicles so that everyone remains safe and collisions can be avoided. Pedestrians who are involved in accidents with cars are very likely to suffer injuries so looking out for the safety of those walking is very important to everyone in Phoenix and in Arizona.
Pedestrian accidents usually result from the failure either of a pedestrian or of a driver to observe the rules of the road. For example, a pedestrian who crosses traffic without the right-of-way may be liable for a crash and a driver who does not yield to a pedestrian while turning right may also be responsible. Some accidents can be difficult to determine which individual, if any, were liable and who should be found at-fault in the crash. Speaking with a lawyer who represents pedestrian injury victims may be the best way to understand the legal implications of a crash, including whether you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages.
An accident occurred in Tucson on Wednesday afternoon between an SUV and three pedestrians with police suspecting that the driver was at-fault for the crash. According to authorities and witnesses, the driver of the SUV was backing up into a parking spot outside a fast food restaurant on University Boulevard when the driver failed to stop. The SUV backed up too far and jumped the curb, colliding with an outdoor bench and pushing it towards the restaurant’s storefront.
Three people were on the sidewalk at the time of the incident and were hurt. The extent of their injuries is not currently known but all were expected to survive. It is also not clear whether a direct collision with the SUV caused their injuries or if they were hurt by the moving bench.
Local police responded to the scene and conducted an initial investigation with follow up continuing at this time. Through their investigation, police hope to learn why the driver failed to stop and why the driver struck the bench, leading to the injuries that resulted.
In any collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian, the pedestrian may be entitled to seek financial relief against a driver who caused a collision or whose actions led to the pedestrian’s injuries. This relief can be brought through a civil claim for injuries and the claim is separate from any traffic tickets or citations that may be issued by the State of Arizona. In fact, these claims for relief may be possible even if no citations were issued.
If an accident with a car has left you injured, make sure your rights are protected by calling the lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. We have a history of helping our clients get the relief they deserve and we are standing by 24 hours a day to help you do the same. Call us now toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191 and let us provide you with a free, no obligation telephone consultation regarding your accident and your legal options.
If an accident has caused you to suffer, do not let yourself continue to be victimized. Call us today and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Five Injured in Gilbert Car Crash, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 3, 2014.
Resource:
Police: 3 injured in crash near UA campus, by Jackie Kent, Tucson News Now, published February 5, 2014.