When walking down a sidewalk in West Valley City, you expect to cross the street safely, especially at a crosswalk. Suddenly, a car comes speeding around a corner and doesn’t see you in the crosswalk. The loud screech of tires and the shock of the moment leave you shaken.
You are left hurt and unsure of what to do next. You start to worry about paying for medical bills, missing work, and whether the driver’s insurance will handle the situation fairly.
If you’ve never dealt with legal or insurance issues before, this can feel overwhelming. You might not know if you have any options or if you’ll have to handle everything alone. But there is good news; Utah law protects pedestrians from careless drivers. If you file a claim and can prove negligence on the part of the driver, you may be able to get financial help for your medical bills and other costs.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we’ve helped many people in West Valley City and nearby areas get the compensation they deserve. Our team has won large settlements, including millions of dollars for serious injuries. We understand how stressful this can be, and we’re ready to help you fight for what you need.
Pedestrian accidents often happen when drivers ignore basic safety rules or aren’t paying attention when it matters most. These accidents can be very serious, especially in busy areas like West Valley City. Some common causes include:
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of pedestrian fatalities in West Valley City and in general. Drivers who are texting, using their phone, or playing with in-car gadgets are often distracted. Even a quick glance away from the road can cause a driver to miss seeing someone crossing the street.
While smartphones and car entertainment systems are helpful, they can be dangerous distractions on busy roads.
Drivers who go faster than the speed limit have a harder time stopping for people in crosswalks. Higher speeds also make crashes more dangerous.
In neighborhoods near schools or shopping areas in West Valley City, people often complain about cars going too fast. When there are lots of people walking, speeding can lead to serious accidents, even deadly ones.
Pedestrians usually have the right of way when crossing at crosswalks, whether they’re marked or not. However, some drivers rush through turns or run red lights, forcing people to jump back to avoid being hit. Drivers sometimes think they can speed through before a pedestrian enters the road, but this can cause accidents.
At night or in poorly lit areas, it can be hard for drivers to see pedestrians. Streetlights might not be bright enough, or pedestrians might wear dark clothes, making them hard to spot.
While this doesn’t always mean a driver is being careless, it’s important for drivers to slow down and pay extra attention when it’s harder to see.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is very dangerous. Impaired drivers react more slowly and may ignore traffic signals. They may not see or react to someone crossing the street in time, which often leads to tragic accidents.
Sometimes, an accident happens because of a mix of speeding, distraction, or ignoring traffic signals. Understanding these factors helps explain why accidents happen and who might be responsible. If you’re injured in an accident, looking at each of these factors can help figure out who is at fault and help you build a strong case for fair compensation.
In Utah, pedestrians have specific legal protections to help keep them safe. Understanding your rights and responsibilities in West Valley City will help you walk confidently and know what to do if a driver doesn’t follow the rules.
In Utah, drivers must yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, as long as the pedestrian enters the crosswalk properly.
Drivers cannot drive past someone who is stepping off the curb when the signal is in their favor. If a driver doesn’t stop, especially if they’re speeding or distracted, it’s usually considered their fault.
Many people think a crosswalk is only where the lines are painted, but in Utah, intersections are often considered “unmarked crosswalks” by default.
Even if there are no painted lines, you may still have the right of way if you’re crossing at an intersection and follow traffic signals. Drivers must watch for pedestrians, and if they don’t, they can be held responsible for any accidents.
When the traffic signal says “Walk,” you can cross the street. However, Utah law expects you to keep moving if the signal changes to “Don’t Walk” while you’re already in the crosswalk.
If you don’t follow these signals and get into an accident, the court might say you’re partly responsible, which could lower how much money you can get for injuries. Following the signals will help strengthen your case if a driver hits you while you’re following the rules.
Pedestrians legally have to be careful and not create unexpected dangers. If you run into the street without warning or cross away from intersections, it might hurt your case if an accident happens. While pedestrians have strong legal protections, being reckless can make you partly responsible.
Utah’s comparative negligence rule can lower or even eliminate the money you could get if you’re partly to blame for an accident. For example, if you cross when the light is red or are texting while walking, you might share some blame for the accident. If you’re 50% or more at fault, you might not get any money for your injuries. Being careful and paying attention while walking will help protect your claim if you get hurt.
By following crossing signals, wearing bright clothes at night, and making sure the road is clear, you do your part to make sure you remain safe. At the same time, drivers must do their part by yielding and staying alert. If they don’t, and you’re hurt because of it, knowing Utah’s pedestrian laws can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Establishing who is at fault for a pedestrian accident can be more than pointing at the driver. While drivers do bear substantial obligations, other factors might complicate who pays for injuries. Knowing how liability is assigned helps you and your lawyer build a persuasive case.
If the driver was distracted, speeding, or ignoring signals, they likely shoulder the primary blame. Evidence of phone use, skid marks that prove inability to stop, or witness statements about running a red light can demonstrate clear wrongdoing. A police report often summarizes the driver’s conduct, which can be valuable when negotiating with insurers.
Sometimes, the injured pedestrian shares part of the blame, such as crossing outside designated areas or failing to check traffic before stepping off the curb.
In Utah, if a court or insurer decides you contributed to the collision, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Documenting that you followed signals properly is important to minimize any chance that blame is shifted onto you.
In rare cases, a local government or a property owner might also be liable. If the city neglected to fix a broken traffic light or if a major hole or obstruction forced you off the sidewalk into traffic, the city’s inaction could have contributed to your accident.
Proving municipal negligence can be more complex, requiring proof they knew or should have known about the hazard but failed to remedy it.
Under Utah’s comparative negligence rules, you can recover damages even if you share some fault, as long as your portion stays below 50 percent. Being 20 percent at fault would reduce your award by that 20 percent.
But if you cross the 50 percent mark, you may not be eligible for any compensation. Presenting evidence that highlights a driver’s reckless act is key to guarding against inflated claims that you caused the incident.
Proving liability often involves collecting official reports, traffic camera recordings, medical evaluations, and sometimes accident reconstruction if the scenario is complicated. Working with an attorney who understands West Valley City’s roads and local traffic behaviors can help anchor your argument in facts.
Establishing liability is about crafting a clear, evidence-based narrative that points responsibility squarely on the party whose negligence truly caused the accident.
Accidents can leave you shocked and uncertain about what to do next. Taking proper steps after a pedestrian crash can protect your rights and facilitate a smoother claims process.
Even if you do not think your injuries are serious, see a doctor. Some conditions like concussions or internal bleeding might only show symptoms later. A prompt medical evaluation not only protects your health but also records the link between the collision and any harm you sustained.
Call the police to report what happened. Officers will usually write a report that includes details about the scene, any witness statements, or tickets given. This report can be helpful in showing who was at fault. Make sure to note the officer’s name or badge number so you can get a copy of the report later.
If you can, get the other driver’s name, license plate number, insurance information, and contact details. If there were any witnesses, ask for their phone numbers.
Take pictures of the car’s position, your injuries, and the area around the accident. These pictures can help explain what happened if there are any arguments later.
Call your insurance company to report the accident, especially if your insurance covers personal injury protection. If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, be careful and don’t give too many details before talking to a lawyer. Insurance companies might use your words against you.
Save all your medical bills, therapy receipts, and records of any days you missed from work. Also, write down how the injury is affecting your daily life. If you’re having trouble sleeping, need help with errands, or are scared to cross the street, make a note of these things. Doing so can help if you make a claim for pain, suffering, or emotional distress.
A lawyer can help negotiate with insurance companies and properly investigate the accident scene. They know the laws in your area and can help prove who is responsible. A lawyer will take the stress out of dealing with insurance companies or court filings.
By following these steps, you can get the medical care you need, gather important evidence, and protect your rights from the start. Taking care of your health and legal situation early can help ease your stress during this difficult time.
A serious pedestrian accident can impact your life in many ways, including physically, emotionally, and financially. Utah law says you’re entitled to compensation if someone else’s carelessness caused your injuries. Knowing what types of damages you can ask for can help you understand what you might get from a settlement or court ruling.
You can get compensation for any costs related to treating your injuries, such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, therapy, and follow-up visits.
If you need ongoing help, like physical therapy or prescription medicine, you can ask for that too. Sometimes experts will predict future medical needs.
Serious injuries can cause you to miss work or cut down your hours. You can get compensation for that lost income. If your injuries stop you from going back to your old job or slow down your career, you can also ask for compensation for future lost income.
Pain and emotional distress are non-financial damages. This can be a big deal, especially if you have to go through multiple surgeries or deal with mental health issues like PTSD. Money can’t fix these things, but it can help pay for therapy or just recognize what you’ve been through.
If personal items like your phone or glasses were damaged in the accident, you can ask for compensation for them. Even though these items might not be worth as much, they are still part of the loss you experienced.
Serious injuries might stop you from doing activities you once enjoyed. This could be included in your overall compensation.
In rare cases, if a driver’s actions were extremely reckless, Utah law lets you ask for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. These are not given in every pedestrian accident, but they may apply if the driver was very drunk or purposely ignored traffic rules.
Gathering the right documents for each type of damage is important. Your lawyer can collect medical records, pay stubs, and personal stories showing how the accident affected your life. This helps you get a settlement or court decision that covers both your current and future needs.
Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible to protect their profit margins. If you’ve been hit by a car in West Valley City, you might find yourself dealing with an insurance company that questions the seriousness of your injuries.
Here are some tips to help you protect yourself and avoid problems:
When an insurance adjuster calls, keep the conversation short and to the point. Stick to basic facts like the date, time, and general details of the accident.
Avoid talking too much about how it happened, who was at fault, or how bad your injuries are. Insurance companies can twist your words to reduce or deny your claim.
An adjuster might try to get you to give a recorded statement. You can say no until you talk to a lawyer.
A lawyer can help you answer questions carefully and avoid saying something that could hurt your case. One wrong answer can hurt your credibility, but a lawyer will make sure you stay consistent and accurate.
Save all medical bills, prescription receipts, therapy bills, and any receipts for things you had to replace because of the accident. Also, keep track of the days you missed from work and ask your employer for proof of lost wages. This record helps show the full cost of your injury.
Sometimes, insurance companies will offer a quick settlement. It might sound like a good idea when you’re facing bills, but these offers are usually too low to cover long-term treatments or things like emotional pain. If you take the offer too soon, you might lose the chance to get more money later if your condition worsens.
If the driver was cited for speeding or texting, or if there are any other signs of their negligence, share this information with the insurance company. Strong evidence showing the driver was at fault can make it harder for the insurer to deny responsibility. Eyewitness statements or traffic camera footage can help even more.
You and your lawyer can try to work out a fair settlement with the insurance company without going to court. However, if they aren’t being reasonable, you may need to file a lawsuit. Even just preparing for a lawsuit can get them to offer more money. Having solid evidence of your injuries and the driver’s fault will help elicit a better offer.
Working with a lawyer who knows about pedestrian accidents in West Valley City can make the process easier. They will talk to the insurance adjusters, explain the details of your policy, and fight for you to get the full compensation you deserve. A lawyer helps you avoid mistakes and lets you focus on getting better.
Dealing with insurance companies doesn’t have to be hard if you are careful, have the right evidence, and get legal representation.
At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how a pedestrian accident can change your life. From emergency treatments to long-term recovery, families often face financial difficulties and emotional stress.
With decades of experience, our firm offers caring and personal legal help to people in West Valley City who need justice and fair compensation.
When you reach out to us, we take the time to listen to what happened. We want to understand how the accident occurred, your medical treatment, and what your life is like now.
Knowing these details helps us come up with a strategy that fits your needs, whether it’s covering expensive therapy, making sure you can keep your home after missing work, or holding the driver responsible for their actions.
Building a strong case starts with gathering evidence. Our attorneys get police reports, talk to witnesses, check if any businesses or traffic cameras recorded the accident, and sometimes work with accident reconstruction experts.
If you think the driver was texting or drunk, we may ask for phone records or blood test results. We carefully gather all the facts to show that the driver was careless.
Many of our clients feel overwhelmed by insurance paperwork, phone calls, and settlement negotiations.
We will handle these conversations for you, showing the insurance company proof that the driver was at fault and pushing for a fair settlement that covers your current medical bills and any future care you may need. With our experience, including winning multi-million-dollar cases, we negotiate from a strong position.
Most pedestrian cases settle, but we do not shy away from trial if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount. We gather expert testimony about your injuries and how they affect your work or daily life. Whether your case is settled through talks, mediation, or court, we’ll stay committed to getting the best outcome for you.
We handle the legal details so you can focus on healing. Pedestrian accidents often cause broken bones, head injuries, or emotional trauma, which take time and therapy to recover from. Our goal is to make the legal process easier for you, keeping you informed at every step, and advising you on whether to accept or keep negotiating.
By combining a caring approach with strong legal skills, Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks is dedicated to helping you find financial relief and peace of mind. Whether your accident happened near a busy intersection or a neighborhood street, we’re here to help you move forward.
Under Utah law, even if there were no painted lines, you may still have the right of way, depending on how you entered the intersection.
Utah applies comparative negligence. If your portion of blame is under 50 percent, you can be compensated, though your award will be reduced by your fault percentage. If you are assigned 50 percent or more, you will not be able to recover compensation. Undeniable evidence and a strong legal argument can help lessen or refute any blame assigned to you.
Generally, Utah’s statute of limitations for such claims is four years from the date of the accident. However, if government entities are involved, shorter deadlines might apply. Contacting a lawyer soon helps ensure you do not miss these crucial timelines.
Typically, no. Many early offers undervalue future medical costs or emotional distress. It is wise to consult a lawyer who can evaluate if the proposed amount fully addresses your losses.
No one plans to be hit by a car when walking around West Valley City, yet these events happen more frequently than many think. If a driver’s negligence has left you injured, you deserve both compassionate guidance and an advocate who understands local laws. Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks aims to provide that support, handling the complicated insurance discussions and legal steps so you can focus on healing.
Call (801) 500-4000 to schedule an initial consultation. We will review the details of your collision, explore how Utah law applies to your case, and outline the potential compensation you might recover.
Our firm’s dedication to personal injury cases has led to notable settlements, including significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries. Let us stand in your corner, defending your rights and working tirelessly for a resolution that covers both present and future needs arising from your injuries.
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