Quincy Pedestrian Accident Attorney
As the bustling city of Quincy, Massachusetts, continues to grow and develop, pedestrian safety has become an increasingly important concern. With over 100,000 residents and a thriving downtown area, Quincy sees its fair share of foot traffic alongside busy roads and intersections. Unfortunately, this also means that pedestrian accidents and injuries are too common. Our Quincy pedestrian accident attorneys are here to help you now.
At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience representing victims of pedestrian accidents in Quincy and throughout Massachusetts. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys understand the devastating impact these incidents can have on victims and their families. In this article, we'll explore the key factors surrounding pedestrian accident lawsuits in Quincy, including common causes, liability issues, and the legal options available to those who have been injured.
The Scope of the ProblemPedestrian accidents are a serious issue across the United States, and Quincy is no exception. According to data from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, 145 reported pedestrian crashes in Quincy between 2015 and 2019. These incidents resulted in 5 fatalities and 140 injuries, highlighting the severe consequences of pedestrian-vehicle collisions.
Some of the most dangerous areas for pedestrians in Quincy include:
- Hancock Street in Quincy Center
- Southern Artery (Route 3A)
- Quincy Avenue
- Newport Avenue
- Beale Street
These high-traffic corridors see many pedestrians and vehicles interacting daily, increasing the risk of accidents.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in QuincyUnderstanding the root causes of pedestrian accidents is crucial for preventing and determining liability in legal cases. Some of the most frequent factors contributing to pedestrian accidents in Quincy include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers using mobile phones, adjusting GPS systems, or engaging in other distracting behaviors are more likely to overlook pedestrians.
- Failure to yield right-of-way: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's ability to react to pedestrians and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol and drug use significantly impair a driver's judgment and reaction time.
- Poor visibility: Inadequate lighting, inclement weather, or visual obstructions can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
- Improper turns: Drivers making left or right turns without checking for pedestrians can cause serious accidents.
- Pedestrian negligence: In some cases, pedestrians may contribute to accidents by jaywalking, crossing against signals, or failing to use designated crosswalks.
Determining liability in pedestrian accident cases can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. In Massachusetts, the law follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a plaintiff can recover damages if they are not more than 50% at fault for the accident.
Potentially liable parties in a pedestrian accident lawsuit may include:
- The driver: If the driver's negligence caused the accident, they may be held primarily responsible.
- The pedestrian: If the pedestrian's actions contributed to the accident, their compensation may be reduced proportionally to their degree of fault.
- Government entities: In cases where poor road design, inadequate signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident, local or state government agencies may bear some responsibility.
- Vehicle manufacturers: If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we conduct thorough investigations to identify all potentially liable parties and build the most robust case for our clients.
Legal Options for Pedestrian Accident Victims in QuincyIf you've been injured in a pedestrian accident in Quincy, you have several legal options available:
- Insurance claims: Massachusetts has a no-fault insurance system, which means injured pedestrians can seek compensation through their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who was at fault.
- Personal injury lawsuit: If your injuries meet certain thresholds or exceed your PIP coverage limits, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover additional damages.
- Wrongful death lawsuit: In cases of fatal pedestrian accidents, the victim's family may pursue a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties.
Victims of pedestrian accidents in Quincy may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation costs
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence)
The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of your case and the extent of your injuries.
The Importance of Legal RepresentationNavigating the complexities of a pedestrian accident lawsuit can be challenging, especially while recovering from injuries. Having experienced legal representation is crucial for protecting your rights and maximizing your potential compensation.
At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we offer the following:
- Free initial consultations to evaluate your case
- Thorough investigations to gather evidence and identify liable parties
- Expert witness testimony to support your claim
- Skilled negotiation with insurance companies
- Aggressive courtroom representation if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our team has a proven track record of success in pedestrian accident cases throughout Massachusetts, including several multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in QuincyIf you're involved in a pedestrian accident in Quincy, taking the following steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don't think you're seriously injured.
- Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report.
- Gather contact and insurance information from the driver involved.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Only provide statements to insurance companies after consulting an attorney.
- Contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Pedestrian accidents in Quincy can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial for securing the compensation you deserve. At Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers, we advocate for pedestrian safety and fight for the rights of accident victims throughout Massachusetts.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Quincy, please contact our experienced legal team. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee, meaning you only pay if we win your case. Let us help you navigate the legal process and focus on your recovery while we fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us for a free consultation at (617) 777-7777.