It is not unusual for pedestrian accidents to leave victims with catastrophic injuries and crippling emotional distress. Maybe you are a young professional who was struck by a distracted driver while crossing the street, or your child was injured in a crosswalk due to a speeding vehicle. These types of incidents can result in physical pain, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens for victims and their families.
Fortunately, your dedicated Orem pedestrian accident lawyer with Siegfried & Jensen has successfully handled over 34,000 cases and recovered more than $1 billion in insurance settlements and trial verdicts. When you need a trial-proven Orem personal injury lawyer, our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward securing maximum compensation for your suffering.
Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Orem
Pedestrian accidents are often the result of preventable factors, ranging from driver negligence to unsafe road conditions. Under Utah Code § 41-6a-1002, drivers must exercise caution around pedestrians and yield the right-of-way when appropriate. Identifying the cause of an accident is crucial for determining liability and building a strong claim.
Distracted Driving
Drivers fail to pay full attention to the road when they are texting, eating, or using electronic devices. Distractions prevent drivers from noticing pedestrians crossing the street or walking alongside the road. This is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Speeding
Excessive speeds reduce a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid a collision with a pedestrian. Higher speeds also increase the severity of injuries when accidents occur. Pedestrians hit by speeding vehicles often suffer life-altering or fatal injuries.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
Drivers who neglect to yield to pedestrians at marked or unmarked crosswalks, as required by Utah law, can be held liable. This is particularly dangerous in urban areas with heavy foot traffic. Pedestrians rely on drivers to follow traffic laws to ensure their safety.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol or drug impairment significantly increases the likelihood of a serious or fatal pedestrian accident. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and diminished judgment, making it difficult to avoid collisions. These accidents are entirely preventable when drivers make responsible decisions.
Poor Visibility
Low lighting, fog, or heavy rain can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Poor visibility often leads to accidents at night or during adverse weather conditions. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable in areas without adequate streetlights or reflective signage.
For a free legal consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer serving Orem, call (801) 266-0999
Pedestrian Accident Victims in Utah Have Specific Rights
If you are a pedestrian accident victim, you have specific legal rights under Utah law that protect you and allow you to seek full compensation for your injuries. Understanding these rights is essential if you are going to get the justice you deserve. Under Utah Code § 78B-3-103, these rights include the following:
Right to Compensation
Pedestrian accident victims may recover both economic damages, such as medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, including pain and suffering. Utah law ensures that injured individuals are compensated for the full extent of their losses when we prove the defendant’s negligence. Compensation is designed to help you rebuild your life after an accident.
Pursuing compensation often requires detailed documentation of expenses and evidence linking the accident to the injuries sustained. Your experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Orem, UT, with Siegfried & Jensen, can help calculate damages accurately and get the most out of your claim. We need to ensure that all damages are accounted for if we are going to maximize your payout.
Comparative Negligence Rule
Utah follows a comparative negligence rule under Utah Code § 78B-5-818, which allows you to recover damages even if you share partial fault for the accident. However, if your portion of fault exceeds 50%, you may be barred from recovering compensation. For this reason, establishing clear evidence of liability is crucial in pedestrian accident cases.
For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for crossing outside a designated crosswalk, your total compensation would be reduced by that percentage. Understanding how comparative negligence impacts a case can help you set realistic expectations for recovery. Fortunately, our team will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of your accident so we can challenge the defendant’s unfounded shared fault allegations.
Statute of Limitations
Pedestrian accident victims in Utah generally have four years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim under Utah Code § 78B-2-307. Filing within this timeframe is critical if you hope to preserve your right to seek compensation. Delays in filing may result in the loss of evidence and the inability to pursue legal action.
Acting quickly can help identify witnesses more easily and strengthen your claims. Legal deadlines are strictly enforced, so it is best to consult with a legal advocate as soon as possible. Our team will ensure these deadlines and all necessary legal requirements are met.
Orem Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me (801) 266-0999
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
Taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident can significantly affect the success of your claim. You can check out our client reviews to learn more about how our actions have helped other pedestrian accident victims preserve critical evidence, establish liability, and protect their rights. Though every case is different, here is a general overview of steps you should take if you were hit by a car while walking:
- Seek medical attention
- Report the accident
- Gather evidence
- Avoid making statements
- Consult an attorney
You should also avoid posting about the incident on social media, as these posts can be used against you during the claims process. Following medical advice and keeping thorough records of expenses can further protect your claim and demonstrate the full extent of your damages. Being proactive after an accident is essential if you are going to secure a fair settlement or court award.
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Get Help From a Leading Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Orem, UT
Pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or broken bones, leaving victims overwhelmed with medical bills and lost wages. These challenges can make recovery feel impossible without proper legal guidance.
Having an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Orem, UT, with Siegfried & Jensen handling your case, gives you an opportunity to focus on your recovery while we handle the legal details of your case.
Visit our About Us page to learn more about our firm’s commitment to our clients. Whether you were injured by a distracted driver or suffered harm due to poor road conditions, you deserve justice and fair compensation. Contact us by phone or through our quick contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation as soon as today.
Call or text (801) 266-0999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form