Cambridge Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Cambridge, MA, is a city known for its walkability, with bustling streets and sidewalks frequented by residents, students, and visitors alike. Unfortunately, the increasing number of pedestrians can also lead to a rise in pedestrian accidents, which often result in serious injuries due to the vulnerability of those on foot. When a pedestrian accident occurs, victims need to understand their rights and options for seeking compensation. Our Cambridge pedestrian accident attorneys are here to help you.

Our Cambridge personal injury attorneys have a deep commitment to representing pedestrian accident victims, fighting to secure the compensation they deserve, and providing them with the support they need throughout the legal process. This article offers insight into pedestrian accident claims in Cambridge and explains how our firm can help you.

Pedestrian accidents can happen in a variety of settings, from busy intersections and crosswalks to parking lots and sidewalks. These accidents frequently occur due to driver negligence or failure to follow traffic laws. Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are less likely to notice pedestrians, especially in urban areas.
• Speeding: High-speed driving increases both the likelihood of an accident and the severity of injuries sustained by pedestrians.
• Failure to Yield: Many pedestrian accidents happen when drivers fail to yield at crosswalks, disregarding pedestrians’ right of way.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are a significant danger to pedestrians, as impairment affects reaction time and decision-making.
• Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur at night, in adverse weather, or when drivers fail to use proper headlights.

Identifying the cause of an accident is critical to building a strong legal case, as it establishes liability and demonstrates the negligent behavior that led to the victim’s injuries.

Due to the lack of protection, pedestrians often sustain severe injuries when struck by a vehicle. These injuries can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are common in pedestrian accidents and can lead to lasting cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal injuries can result in partial or full paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care and support.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of a collision often leads to broken bones, which may require surgery and extended rehabilitation.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.

These injuries often require extensive treatment and can lead to permanent disabilities, impacting the victim’s quality of life and ability to work.

Establishing liability is a fundamental step in a pedestrian accident claim. Liability often falls on the driver of the vehicle, but there may be other factors or parties involved. Here are some common aspects of liability in pedestrian accident cases:

• Driver Negligence: Drivers have a duty of care to operate their vehicles safely and adhere to traffic laws. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for the accident.
• Property Owners: In cases where hazardous conditions on sidewalks or in parking lots contribute to the accident, property owners may share responsibility.
• Government Entities: In rare cases, poor road design, inadequate lighting, or insufficient crosswalk markings can contribute to pedestrian accidents, and a government entity may bear some liability.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we conduct a thorough investigation of each case to determine all parties that may bear responsibility. This may include reviewing surveillance footage, examining police reports, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts.

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, the steps you take immediately afterward can have a significant impact on your ability to pursue compensation. Here are some crucial steps to follow:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical records also play a vital role in documenting the extent of your injuries.
• Document the Accident Scene. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, including any visible injuries, damage to the vehicle, and the surrounding environment. Collecting contact information from witnesses can also be helpful.
• File a Police Report. A police report provides an official record of the accident and can serve as valuable evidence in your case. Be sure to provide a detailed and accurate account to the responding officers.

Consulting an attorney as soon as possible ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive guidance on the next steps. A lawyer can help preserve evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and prevent you from making statements that may weaken your case.

Pedestrian accident victims may be eligible for several types of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and the impact on their lives. Compensation can cover both **economic** and **non-economic** damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any future medical treatment related to the injury.
• Lost Wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost income and any potential future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and the psychological impact of the accident are also compensable damages.
• Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation may cover the impact of your injuries on daily activities, hobbies, and relationships.
• Property Damage: If any personal property, such as a phone or bicycle, was damaged in the accident, you may be compensated for repair or replacement costs.

At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we work closely with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to calculate the full extent of our clients’ losses. Our goal is to secure fair compensation that addresses both immediate and long-term needs.

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including pedestrian accident cases, is **three years** from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe can prevent you from seeking compensation. Because pedestrian accident cases can involve extensive investigation, it’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure compliance with all legal deadlines.

When dealing with a pedestrian accident claim, having experienced legal representation can make a profound difference in the outcome. At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we bring a compassionate approach to each case, combined with the legal acumen and resources necessary to achieve favorable results.

• Detailed Case Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident, gathering all necessary evidence to build a strong case.
• Expert Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often aim to settle for the lowest possible amount. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively to ensure clients receive fair compensation.
• Trial-Ready Representation: While many cases settle out of court, we prepare each case as if it will go to trial. This approach demonstrates our commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

Our firm understands the challenges that pedestrian accident victims face. We prioritize open communication, compassionate support, and a commitment to keeping clients informed and empowered throughout the legal process.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Cambridge, MA, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers offers free consultations to discuss your case, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps. We are dedicated to helping accident victims obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.

Pedestrian accidents can lead to life-changing consequences, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Contact Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers today and let our experienced team advocate for you. We’re here to provide the legal representation and support you need to move forward with confidence and security. Call us for a free consultation at (617)-777-7777.