Pedestrians have the right to use the state’s public walkways to travel and cross the road safely. However, every year thousands of Maine pedestrians suffer injuries because of negligent drivers. According to recent data by the Governors Highway Safety Association, Maine has experienced a rise in pedestrian fatalities. The rate of pedestrian deaths in the state tripled between 2018 and 2019.
Recently, a local news source reported on a Maine accident involving a pedestrian. According to the police, the investigation is in its initial phase. However, the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. near Bangor, Maine. The pedestrian suffered serious injuries, and emergency responders rushed the pedestrian to a local hospital for treatment.
The inherent lack of protection between pedestrians and vehicles naturally makes these accidents and subsequent injuries more devastating than two-vehicle crashes. Many victims experience:
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury
- Psychological trauma
Those who survive a pedestrian accident may require months of surgeries, rehabilitation, and psychological treatment. In some cases, injury victims must choose between appropriate treatment and their financial wellbeing. An attorney can assist a victim in holding the negligent driver or their insurance company responsible for their losses so they can focus on their recovery.
Maine pedestrians who have suffered injuries after an accident may recover compensation if they can establish the driver or another entity was at fault for the accident. Pedestrian accident lawsuits can be challenging and require a thorough understanding of complex Maine injury laws. These accidents often occur because of driver negligence, road safety issues, pedestrian negligence or a combination of those factors. An attorney can investigate the accident to determine fault and apportion liability.
A driver may be responsible for the accident if they were speeding, under the influence, distracted, or engaged in other negligent or reckless conduct. Moreover, a governmental entity responsible for the roadway may be liable for the accident in certain situations. These cases generally involve situations where the government fails to address inherent safety issues such as missing signs, damaged roadways, or other road dangers. Finally, a vehicle or part manufacturer may be responsible if the crash stemmed from a defective car part. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and reasonable funeral and burial costs.
Contact a Maine Pedestrian Accident Attorney for Immediate Assistance
If you or someone you know has been hurt in a Maine pedestrian accident, contact the injury lawyers at Peter Thompson & Associates. Accident cases, especially those involving pedestrians, encompass many complex legal theories. The lawyers at our firm have extensive experience successfully representing clients and their loved ones in all types of Maine motor vehicle accident cases. Our office handles claims involving, hit-and-runs, driving while impaired, premises liability, defective product lawsuits, and wrongful death. Our attorneys prioritize the needs of our clients, and we represent them with respect, compassion, and integrity. We have recovered significant amounts of compensation for our clients and look forward to seeing how we can help you. Contact our office at 800-804-2004 to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer on our team.