Salt Lake City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Have you been injured as a pedestrian in Salt Lake City? You may be entitled to significant compensation. Let us help you get the justice you deserve.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the devastating impact that pedestrian accidents can have on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Salt Lake City, it’s important to seek experienced legal representation to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, long-term rehabilitation, and significant emotional and financial burdens. 

Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. With a deep understanding of local laws and a commitment to justice, we work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure fair settlements for those affected by pedestrian accidents. Let us help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

Introduction to Pedestrian Accidents in Salt Lake City

Pedestrian accidents in Salt Lake City can have life-altering consequences for victims, often resulting in severe injuries or even death. With the city’s growing population and bustling traffic, pedestrians face significant risks when walking in busy areas, crossing streets, or navigating intersections. 

Whether on foot during daily routines or enjoying outdoor activities, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable due to the lack of physical protection compared to those inside vehicles.

In Salt Lake City, pedestrian accidents are often caused by negligent drivers who fail to yield the right of way, drive distracted, or speed through crosswalks. Other factors like poor road conditions, inadequate signage, and weather-related hazards can also contribute to these accidents. 

While pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, certain areas in the city, including downtown and busy intersections, are more prone to incidents involving pedestrians.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, and understanding the common causes is necessary to build a strong case. In Salt Lake City, as in many urban areas, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to injury due to the close interaction between pedestrians and motor vehicles. 

Below are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents:

Distracted Drivers

• Cell phone use: Drivers texting or talking on their phones often fail to notice pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections.
• Inattentiveness: Drivers who are not paying full attention to the road can easily overlook pedestrians, especially in busy areas or near traffic signals.

Failure to Yield

• Running red lights or stop signs: Drivers failing to stop at traffic signals or signs often cause accidents when pedestrians have the right of way.
• Failure to yield at crosswalks: Some drivers fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, putting walkers at risk when crossing roads.

Speeding

• Increased stopping distance: Drivers who speed have less time to react when a pedestrian enters their path, making it more likely that they will hit the pedestrian.
• Reduced awareness: Speeding also reduces a driver’s ability to notice pedestrians in time, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Poor Road Conditions

• Ineffective signage or lighting: Poorly lit streets, lacking pedestrian crossings or signage, increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents, especially at night.
• Obstructed sidewalks: Damaged or uneven sidewalks can cause pedestrians to trip and fall, or force them to step into traffic unexpectedly.

By recognizing these common causes, Salt Lake City pedestrians and drivers can take precautions to prevent accidents and ensure safer streets for everyone. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to seek experienced legal assistance as soon as possible.

Salt Lake City Pedestrian Laws & Right-of-Way Regulations

Salt Lake City, like most urban areas, has a set of pedestrian laws and right-of-way regulations designed to protect pedestrians and ensure their safety when walking along roads and crossing streets. 

Understanding these laws is essential for both pedestrians and drivers to prevent accidents and ensure everyone is aware of their rights and responsibilities on the road.

Pedestrian Right-of-Way

In Salt Lake City, pedestrians have the right of way in certain situations, particularly at crosswalks and intersections. Here are some important regulations:

• Marked Crosswalks: When a pedestrian is in a marked crosswalk, vehicles are required to yield to them, allowing them to cross safely. Drivers must stop and wait for the pedestrian to clear the crosswalk before continuing.
• Unmarked Crosswalks: Even if a crosswalk is not clearly marked, pedestrians still have the right of way at intersections. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who are crossing at intersections, even if the crosswalk is not visible.
• Pedestrian Signals: Pedestrian signals are often used at intersections to direct foot traffic. When the pedestrian signal indicates “walk,” pedestrians have the right to cross. When the signal indicates “don’t walk,” pedestrians should not cross.

Pedestrian Responsibilities

While pedestrians have the right of way in many situations, they also have a responsibility to follow certain rules to avoid accidents:

• Use of Crosswalks: Pedestrians should use crosswalks whenever possible. Crossing mid-block or outside of designated areas can lead to accidents, especially when drivers do not expect pedestrians in such locations.
• Obey Traffic Signals: Pedestrians should always obey traffic signals and avoid crossing streets when the light is red or the pedestrian signal indicates “don’t walk.”
• Stay Visible: Pedestrians should make themselves as visible as possible, especially at night. Wearing bright or reflective clothing and carrying a light can help drivers see pedestrians and prevent accidents.

Driver Responsibilities

In addition to yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks, drivers also have specific duties:

• Yielding to Pedestrians: Drivers must yield to pedestrians when entering or leaving driveways and parking lots, even if there is no marked crosswalk.
• Slowing Down: Drivers should slow down when approaching crosswalks, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as near schools, parks, or shopping areas.
• Right-Turn on Red: Drivers must stop for pedestrians when making a right turn at a red light. Even if there are no specific signals for pedestrians, drivers should always yield if someone is crossing the street.

Laws Regarding Jaywalking

While pedestrians have rights in designated crosswalks, they are also prohibited from jaywalking, which is crossing the street outside of a crosswalk or designated crossing area. In Salt Lake City, jaywalking is illegal, and pedestrians can be ticketed for crossing inappropriately. Pedestrians need to cross streets safely and only in marked or legal areas to avoid accidents and legal consequences.

Understanding Salt Lake City’s pedestrian laws and right-of-way regulations is vital for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. Whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver, adhering to these laws can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. 

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to explore your legal rights and options for compensation.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Salt Lake City

If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Salt Lake City, taking immediate and appropriate actions is critical to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are the essential steps to take after a pedestrian accident:

Seek Medical Attention

Your health should be the top priority. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical care immediately after the accident. Injuries such as concussions, fractures, and internal injuries may not be immediately apparent. 

Getting checked by a medical professional will also help document the injuries you sustained, which is crucial for any insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Call the Police

It’s important to report the accident to the police, especially if the accident results in injuries or property damage. A police report will document the details of the incident and provide an official record, which may be critical for insurance claims or a potential lawsuit. Make sure to get the officer’s information and ask for a copy of the report.

Gather Evidence

If possible, collect evidence from the accident scene. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle involved. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information. This evidence can help establish fault and support your claim.

Do Not Admit Fault

Even if you believe the accident may have been partially your fault, avoid admitting it at the scene. Admitting fault prematurely can impact your ability to recover damages. Wait until all the facts are gathered and reviewed by your lawyer or insurance.

Consult an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

It’s important to consult a Salt Lake City pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your health and legal rights are properly addressed after a pedestrian accident.

Determining Liability in Pedestrian Accidents

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents can be complex, as several factors may come into play. Establishing fault is crucial for recovering compensation for your injuries. In Salt Lake City, understanding the various elements involved in determining liability can help ensure you get the justice you deserve. 

Below are key factors considered when determining who is responsible for a pedestrian accident:

Driver Negligence

In many pedestrian accidents, the driver’s actions are the primary cause. A driver may be deemed negligent if they fail to follow traffic laws or exercise reasonable care. Common driver behaviors that contribute to pedestrian accidents include:

• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and makes it difficult for drivers to stop in time for pedestrians.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions can lead drivers to overlook pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections.
• Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Failing to obey traffic signals can result in collisions with pedestrians who are lawfully crossing the street.
• Driving Under the Influence: Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs may struggle to see or properly respond to pedestrians in their path.

Pedestrian Behavior

While drivers are often responsible, pedestrians can also share in the fault. Utah law requires pedestrians to follow certain safety rules, and failure to do so can impact liability. Some examples of pedestrian negligence include:

• Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of a crosswalk or against a traffic signal can put pedestrians at fault in an accident.
• Disregarding Traffic Signals: If a pedestrian crosses when the signal is red or while the “don’t walk” signal is flashing, they may be found partially liable.
• Impairment: Pedestrians who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be held partially responsible for an accident.

Road Conditions and Hazardous Conditions

In some cases, faulty road conditions or hazardous infrastructure can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Poorly marked crosswalks, broken sidewalks, or inadequate lighting may make it difficult for drivers or pedestrians to see each other, especially at night. 

If road conditions played a role in the accident, liability could extend to local government agencies or other responsible parties for failing to maintain safe streets.

Comparative Fault in Utah

Utah follows a comparative fault rule, meaning that if both the pedestrian and the driver share fault, the amount of compensation awarded can be reduced based on the degree of liability. For example, if a pedestrian is deemed 30% at fault for jaywalking and the driver is found to be 70% at fault for speeding, the pedestrian would receive 70% of the damages they are awarded.

Evidence and Documentation

Proving liability in pedestrian accidents often requires strong evidence. Photographs of the scene, eyewitness testimonies, police reports, and expert testimony can be essential in establishing who was at fault. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer can help gather this evidence and strengthen your case.

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents requires a careful evaluation of all the factors involved. By analyzing driver behavior, pedestrian actions, road conditions, and relevant laws, a Salt Lake City pedestrian accident lawyer can help determine who should be held accountable for your injuries and seek fair compensation for your losses.

Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims in Salt Lake City

After a pedestrian accident in Salt Lake City, victims often face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Understanding the types of compensation available can help victims and their families pursue justice and financial recovery for their injuries. 

Here are the main types of compensation that pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to receive:

Medical Expenses

One of the most immediate concerns following a pedestrian accident is the cost of medical treatment. Pedestrian accident victims can incur substantial medical bills, including:

• Emergency room visits: Immediate treatment following the accident, which may include surgeries or life-saving interventions.
• Hospitalization: Extended stays in the hospital for recovery, particularly for severe injuries like fractures or head trauma.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and other rehabilitation services required to regain mobility and function.
• Long-term care: Ongoing medical needs for those who suffer from permanent disabilities or require regular medical attention.

Medical expenses can quickly add up, and victims are entitled to compensation to cover the cost of their treatment, both present and future.

Lost Wages

In addition to medical bills, pedestrian accident victims often miss work due to their injuries. Lost wages can severely impact a victim’s financial stability. Compensation for lost wages may include:

• Income loss during recovery: For the time the victim is unable to work due to their injuries.
• Future earnings: If the injury results in a permanent disability or long-term medical needs that prevent the victim from returning to their previous job or earning capacity.

In some cases, if the injury is severe enough to permanently impair the victim’s ability to work, compensation for future lost earning potential may be awarded.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical and emotional toll of the injuries sustained in the accident. This category includes:

• Physical pain: Compensation for the pain experienced due to injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injury, or spinal cord damage.
• Emotional distress: The trauma from the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is also considered in this compensation.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If the injuries prevent the victim from participating in activities they once enjoyed, they may be entitled to compensation for this loss.

Calculating pain and suffering can be complex, as it depends on the severity of the injury and the impact on the victim’s quality of life.

Property Damage

Pedestrian accidents may also result in damage to personal property, such as clothing, a phone, or other items. Victims can seek compensation to repair or replace damaged property.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, if the driver’s behavior was particularly reckless, such as driving under the influence or intentionally causing harm, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are designed to punish the defendant and deter future negligent behavior.

Wrongful Death Damages

If the pedestrian accident results in the death of the victim, the surviving family members may be entitled to wrongful death compensation. This can include:

• Funeral expenses: The costs associated with burial and funeral arrangements.
• Loss of companionship: Compensation for the emotional loss experienced by the family.
• Loss of financial support: If the victim was the primary breadwinner, the family may be entitled to compensation for future lost earnings.

Pedestrian accident victims in Salt Lake City may be eligible for a variety of compensatory damages depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the accident. 

Working with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help ensure that all potential damages are identified and pursued, giving victims the best chance of receiving fair compensation for their losses.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Accident

Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be a complex and frustrating process. Pedestrian accident victims often face challenges when trying to secure the compensation they need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. 

Insurance companies, especially those representing drivers or businesses, may attempt to minimize the amount they pay out. Here’s how to handle the situation effectively:

Report the Accident Promptly

After a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to report the incident to the relevant insurance companies as soon as possible. Make sure to provide a clear, factual account of the accident. However, avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability, as this can negatively affect your claim.

Understand Your Coverage

Pedestrian accidents can involve multiple insurance policies. Depending on the circumstances, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance or your own personal injury protection coverage may come into play. It’s important to understand your insurance policy and what it covers to determine the best course of action for seeking compensation.

Avoid Settling Too Quickly

Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement to resolve the case without further negotiation. While this may seem tempting, it’s crucial to remember that initial offers are often much lower than what you may be entitled to, especially when future medical expenses and long-term effects are considered. Never accept a settlement without first consulting with an attorney to assess the full value of your claim.

Provide Documentation and Evidence

Be prepared to provide the insurance company with documentation to support your claim. This can include:

• Medical bills and treatment records
• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Photos of the accident scene or injuries

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be.

Consult an Experienced Lawyer

Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming, particularly if they try to undervalue your claim or deny liability. Having an experienced Salt Lake City pedestrian accident lawyer on your side can help you navigate the process, negotiate fair compensation, and ensure your legal rights are protected. Your lawyer can also handle communication with the insurance company, preventing you from making mistakes that could harm your case.

By staying informed, cautious, and seeking legal advice, you can effectively deal with insurance companies and improve your chances of securing fair compensation after a pedestrian accident.

How Our Firm Assists Pedestrian Accident Victims in Salt Lake City

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand the challenges that pedestrian accident victims face in Salt Lake City. Whether you’re dealing with serious injuries, insurance companies, or the complexities of legal proceedings, our experienced team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. 

Here’s how we assist pedestrian accident victims:

Thorough Investigation of the Accident

We begin by conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident. This includes collecting police reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available surveillance footage. We leave no stone unturned to gather the evidence needed to build a strong case and establish liability.

Determining Liability

Our legal team works to identify all potentially liable parties, which may include the driver, government entities responsible for road maintenance, or even businesses in certain cases. We analyze every aspect of the incident to ensure that the right parties are held accountable for their actions.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts to victims. We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance adjusters, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Our team is prepared to handle the complex negotiations on your behalf, taking the stress out of dealing with insurers.

Maximizing Compensation

We strive to secure the maximum compensation available for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future expenses related to your injury. Our team of experts, including medical professionals and economists, help us assess the full impact of your injuries on your life.

Representation in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our experienced litigators will fight for your rights in court, presenting a compelling case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

By choosing Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, you gain a dedicated and experienced team committed to your recovery and securing justice for your injuries. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Salt Lake City

Pedestrian accidents can be complex, and it’s natural for victims to have many questions. 

Below are some frequently asked questions we often encounter when helping pedestrians who have been injured in Salt Lake City.