Pedestrian Accidents Attorney in Richmond, Virginia

At Wind Law, LLC, our Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer, Ryan E. Wind, knows that the mere mention of a person getting hit by a vehicle is a devastating thought. Unfortunately, these tragic — and almost always preventable — incidents occur all too often throughout Virginia.

According to the latest Virginia Traffic Crash Facts, there were 1,476 pedestrian crashes across the state last year. During these crashes, 1,390 pedestrians were injured — with one-third of the victims suffering catastrophic injuries — and 171 pedestrians were killed.

Because both drivers and pedestrians are often blamed for causing the crash, it is critical to get an experienced and dedicated Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer on your side as quickly as possible.

Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer, Ryan E. Wind

At Wind Law, our Richmond pedestrian accident attorney go to work for our clients right away, investigating incidents, gathering and securing evidence, and making sure our clients are cared for while we pursue fair and just compensation through a negotiated settlement or judgment.

From rural communities to the inner city, our Richmond pedestrian accident attorney and support staff focus on providing compassionate, dedicated, and effective partnerships with our clients — no matter where they live or work in Virginia — so everyone we represent has a genuine opportunity to seek and obtain real results.

At Wind Law, LLC, we represent real people, who need real legal help. Call us today to learn more.

What are the Leading Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Richmond, Virginia?

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Richmond

Pedestrian accidents happen to people of all ages, year-round, day and night, on urban and rural roadways. They also happen at any place along the road.

The most common causes of Richmond pedestrian accidents include:

  • Distracted driving.
  • Drivers disregard heavy traffic conditions.
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Failing to obey traffic signs and signals.
  • Failing to yield at crosswalks and/or intersections.
  • Fatigued driving.
  • Drunk driving.
  • Making improper turns.
  • Speeding or reckless driving.

Last year, Northern Virginia reported a “startling increase” in the number of pedestrian fatalities, led by 32 Fairfax County deaths, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles reported. These crashes not only cut dozens of lives short but also devastated families across the state.

Proving who was at fault in a Richmond pedestrian accident requires a thorough understanding of applicable laws and a careful analysis of the facts related to the particular incident. Remember that under Virginia’s strict law of contributory negligence, injury victims who are considered in any way to be partly to blame for an accident cannot recover compensation from a negligent driver who may have been mostly responsible for the crash. This is a key reason why it is essential to get the help of an experienced Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer for your claim.

Our primary goal is to partner with our clients, so they know they have more than a trusted legal advisor by their side, but a friend who is pursuing their best interests. With 15 years of experience, our highly skilled Richmond pedestrian accident attorney connects with our communities and the people who live in them to pursue the financial outcome they deserve.

What Type of Compensation Can I Pursue During a Richmond Pedestrian Accident Claim?

At Wind Law, LLC, our pedestrian accident lawyer in Richmond & Tappahannock outlines each of our client’s unique recovery needs based on the severity of the incident, and how it correlates to the injuries they sustained to provide a realistic approach to pursuing the best results for your case based on the relationship we build together.

While each case is unique, some of the most common recovery requirements may include, but are not limited to:

  • Current and future medical expenses, including surgeries, prescriptions, and physical therapy.
  • Current and future lost wages.
  • Diminished earning capacity.
  • Scarring and disfigurement, including burns, amputations, or dismemberment.
  • Pain and suffering caused by physical discomfort, inconvenience, and emotional distress.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder impacts the injured party’s ability to maintain gainful employment and personal relationships.

Our Richmond pedestrian accident attorney understands how quickly negligence can change our clients’ lives, and we want to help.

We offer free initial consultations and take injury cases on a contingency basis. This means we do not charge any upfront fees or out-of-pocket costs to take qualifying cases. We will only collect our legal fees after we win your case. If we do not produce a positive outcome for your Richmond pedestrian accident claim, you do not pay us. That is our promise to our fellow Virginians.

Understanding Virginia Pedestrian Traffic Safety Laws

Although crossing at an intersection should be the safest place for pedestrians to cross the street, and is not just preferred but required by law, it is also a frequent site of pedestrian crashes.

Virginia traffic law imposes duties on pedestrians and drivers alike to take care to avoid accidents. The Commonwealth of Virginia has over a dozen lengthy and technical pedestrian traffic laws. Here are some of the most important laws to know.

Wind Law, LLC: Your Trusted Lawyers for Pedestrian Accident Victims in Richmond

Pedestrian accidents happen less often than car accidents, but the consequences are almost always much worse. The Virginia Highway Safety Office reports 1,399 pedestrian crashes in 2021, leaving 1,325 pedestrians injured (413 seriously injured) and 125 pedestrians killed. Pedestrians were injured or killed in every reported crash, compared to car accidents which resulted in injury or death to vehicle occupants only about half the time.

Because pedestrian accidents so often end in catastrophic or fatal injury, and because both drivers and pedestrians can get blamed for causing the crash, it’s critical to get an experienced and dedicated personal injury lawyer on your side as quickly as possible. At Wind Law, LLC, our Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer goes to work for our clients right away, investigating the accident, gathering and securing evidence, and making sure our clients are being taken care of while we pursue fair and just compensation through a settlement or judgment.

Tappahannock & Richmond personal injury attorney Ryan Wind has secured favorable settlements out of court as well as jury verdicts numerous times for injury victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Richmond, call our office for a free consultation and to get started securing your claim.

Virginia Pedestrian Traffic Safety Laws

Virginia traffic law imposes duties on pedestrians and drivers alike to take care to avoid accidents. The Commonwealth of Virginia has over a dozen lengthy and technical pedestrian traffic laws. Here are some of the most important laws to know.

Duties of Pedestrians

  • When crossing roadways, pedestrians shall not carelessly or maliciously interfere with the orderly passage of vehicles.
  • Pedestrians should cross only at intersections or marked crosswalks where possible.
  • It is not negligence as a matter of law for a pedestrian to cross the street between intersections if no marked crosswalk is present and crossing midblock is the most direct route across.
  • Pedestrians shall not enter or cross an intersection in disregard of approaching traffic.
  • Pedestrians should not step into the road in places where they are not visible to oncoming traffic, such as between parked cars.
  • Pedestrian control signals (Walk/Don’t Walk signs) control the right-of-way when they are present.
  • Pedestrians can lawfully walk on the roadway where there are no usable sidewalks, keeping to the left edge of the road or walking on the shoulder.

Duties of Drivers

  • Drivers shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians by stopping and staying stopped until the pedestrian has gone across the lane where the vehicle is stopped.
  • Pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing at intersections.
  • Pedestrians have the right-of-way at any marked crosswalk, whether at the end of the block or midblock, as well as at any regular pedestrian crossing or any intersection where the speed limit is not more than 35 mph.
  • Drivers must slow down or stop if necessary to permit pedestrians to cross intersections safely and expeditiously.
  • If a vehicle has stopped to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians as required by law, it is illegal for another vehicle to overtake and pass that stopped vehicle. This is a dangerous maneuver that frequently ends in a pedestrian getting hit.

At Wind Law, LLC We Also Representing The Following Legal Services:

Contact our Pedestrian Accidents Lawyers in Richmond, VA

For 15 years, our pedestrian accident lawyer in Richmond, VA has developed successful outcomes for our fellow Virginians, whom he calls “some of the best clients an attorney could ask for.”

Our clients, in their own words, applaud Ryan, not just for his work ethic and the results he attains, but also for his honest, caring, and supportive nature. We can help produce the same meaningful results for you and your family.

Contact our dedicated Richmond pedestrian accident lawyer today by calling 804-773-3815 or online to discuss your important case during a free consultation. We want to hear your story, so we can ensure your voice is heard, and work diligently to see that you are treated fairly and get justice in your case.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Richmond

What should I do if I've been involved in a pedestrian accident?

If you've been in a pedestrian accident, prioritize your safety first. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't think you're seriously injured. Contact law enforcement to report the accident and gather information. Then, reach out to us at Wind Law, LLC, so we can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including pedestrian accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it's essential to act quickly as evidence may be lost or witnesses' memories may fade over time. Contact us at Wind Law, LLC, as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.

How can a pedestrian accident attorney help me?

A pedestrian accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of the legal system. At Wind Law, LLC, we'll handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court. Our goal is to relieve your stress and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

What if I was partially at fault for the pedestrian accident? Can I still recover compensation?

In Virginia, the principle of contributory negligence applies, meaning if you're found even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. However, the determination of fault can be complex and subjective. Our skilled attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the accident to minimize any potential liability attributed to you and maximize your chances of recovering compensation.

How long does it take to resolve a pedestrian accident case?

The timeline for resolving a pedestrian accident case can vary depending on factors such as the severity of injuries, the complexity of the case, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate a settlement. Some cases may be resolved relatively quickly through settlement negotiations, while others may require litigation and can take longer. Rest assured, our team at Wind Law, LLC, will work efficiently to resolve your case as promptly as possible while still ensuring you receive fair compensation.

What should I do if the insurance company offers me a settlement after a pedestrian accident?

Before accepting any settlement offer from the insurance company, it's crucial to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount. Our attorneys at Wind Law, LLC, will review any settlement offers to ensure they adequately compensate you for your injuries, damages, and future expenses. We'll negotiate on your behalf to seek a fair settlement or, if necessary, pursue litigation to fight for maximum compensation.

Do I need to go to court for my pedestrian accident case?

Not necessarily. Many pedestrian accident cases are resolved through out-of-court settlements negotiated between the parties and their attorneys. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to trial. Rest assured, our skilled litigators at Wind Law, LLC, are prepared to advocate for your rights in court if necessary, and we'll guide you through every step of the legal process with personalized attention and support.

What if the pedestrian accident occurred in a crosswalk or at an intersection?

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and at intersections in Virginia, but accidents can still happen due to driver negligence. If you were hit while legally crossing the street, you may have a strong case for compensation. Our experienced attorneys at Wind Law, LLC, will investigate the circumstances of the accident to determine liability and hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries.