April 11, 2023
Pedestrian accidents can happen for several different reasons. Sometimes, a driver acts negligently and strikes a pedestrian as a result. On other occasions, a pedestrian may not use the designated crosswalks, instead crossing the road where a driver does not expect them. A pedestrian accident could also result from multiple acts of negligence. Given these complex issues of causation, the rules for recovering damages after a pedestrian accident can be complicated. Accident victims may benefit from speaking to a New Hampshire attorney to learn more about bringing a negligence lawsuit.
Recently, a pedestrian suffered injuries after a hit-and-run in Hudson, New Hampshire. When police responded to the scene, they found the injured pedestrian at an intersection. However, the car that struck the pedestrian was nowhere to be found. The pedestrian was transported to the hospital for serious injuries. After conducting an investigation, police identified and arrested a suspect, who now faces criminal charges.
What Are the Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?Pedestrian accidents may occur due to several conditions on the road. For example, low light conditions may prevent drivers from seeing pedestrians near the road. When operating their vehicles at night, drivers should use their headlights and continuously scan the road and the shoulder for pedestrians. In other cases, there may be a lack of signage warning drivers of a busy pedestrian crossing. Pedestrian accidents may also occur if a driver is distracted, speeding, driving under the influence, or operating their vehicle while drowsy. As a result, drivers may fail to see crosswalks or pedestrians ahead of them. In any event, drivers should make sure to avoid these behaviors and stay focused on the road to avoid a pedestrian accident. On the other hand, a pedestrian accident may occur if pedestrians engage in “jaywalking.” Pedestrians jaywalk when they fail to use available crosswalks or other designated pedestrian crossing areas. If a driver is not expecting a pedestrian to be crossing, they may not be able to stop their vehicle quickly enough to avoid a crash. Regardless of the cause, drivers must stop at the scene, assist the pedestrian, and call emergency medical services and local authorities for help.
Can Pedestrians Recover Damages if They Were at Fault?
New Hampshire allows injured plaintiffs to recover damages if they were less than 51% at fault for the accident that led to their injuries. However, a plaintiff will receive a reduced damages award proportionate to their level of fault. Determining fault in a single-vehicle pedestrian accident involves complex questions of fact and law. A New Hampshire personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and build a solid case.
Have You Been Injured in a New Hampshire Pedestrian Accident?
If you or someone you know recently suffered injuries in a New Hampshire pedestrian accident, contact the personal injury attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates today. The attorneys at our firm possess years of experience handling pedestrian accidents along with car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, and nursing home abuse. Our attorneys will work with you to effectively pursue the compensation you need and deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our office at 800-804-2004 or reach out through our website.