Why Every Pedestrian Deserves Legal Protection After A Crash

Walking should never be a dangerous act. Whether you’re heading to work, walking your dog, or crossing the street to get a coffee, you have a legal right to be safe on public sidewalks and crosswalks. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are becoming more common—and more deadly—across the United States. If you or someone you love has been hit by a car, you’re likely overwhelmed with questions, injuries, and financial stress. That’s where a Raleigh, NC personal injury lawyer can step in to protect your rights and help you pursue justice.

KBD Attorneys represent injured pedestrians and their families in personal injury cases involving reckless drivers, dangerous intersections, and neglected safety rules. Here’s why working with a dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer matters—and what steps to take after a crash.

Pedestrian Accidents Are Rising—And Often Preventable

Pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have reached levels not seen in decades. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), over 7,500 pedestrians were killed by drivers in 2022—the highest number in over 40 years.

What’s causing this increase?

• Distracted driving: Cell phones and in-car screens are pulling drivers’ eyes off the road.
• Speeding: Higher speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase injury severity.
• Larger vehicles: SUVs and trucks are more likely to cause fatal injuries than smaller cars.
• Poor urban planning: Some cities lack safe crosswalks, signage, or lighting for pedestrians.
• Impaired driving: Alcohol and drug use behind the wheel remain a major factor in fatal crashes.

In almost all of these cases, the pedestrian is the most vulnerable party. Injuries are often catastrophic, even when vehicles are traveling at seemingly low speeds.

Common Injuries In Pedestrian Accidents

When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the human body is no match for the force of impact. Injuries are often severe and life-altering. Some of the most common pedestrian injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Lacerations, road rash, and permanent scarring
• Pelvic injuries
• Amputations
• Wrongful death

These injuries often result in long hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care—not to mention the emotional and financial burden on the injured person and their family.

What A Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Do For You

If you were hit by a vehicle while walking, don’t assume the driver’s insurance company will “do the right thing.” Their job is to minimize payouts—not to protect your rights or ensure your recovery.

An experienced personal injury pedestrian accident attorney can:

1. Investigate the Crash Thoroughly

Accident attorneys can collect traffic camera footage, witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony to build a strong case for liability.

2. Prove Negligence

Was the driver speeding? Distracted? Ignoring a red light? An accident attorney can gather the evidence to prove fault.

3. Calculate Full Damages

They can also work with medical and financial experts to understand the full scope of your losses—including future medical care, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.

4. Handle Insurance Negotiations

Insurance companies often try to shift blame to the pedestrian. Pushing back aggressively against them is key to secure fair compensation.

5. Represent You in Court

If the driver’s insurance won’t offer a fair settlement, an attorney can take your case to trial.

Who Can Be Held Liable In A Pedestrian Accident?

While drivers are the most common cause of pedestrian accidents, there may be multiple liable parties, including:

• Negligent drivers
• Government agencies (for unsafe road design or malfunctioning signals)
• Construction companies (if work zones weren’t properly marked)
• Vehicle manufacturers (in cases of brake failure or unintended acceleration)

Identifying all responsible parties can increase your chances of a full financial recovery.

What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one was hit while walking, take these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:

1. Call 911 and seek medical attention. Even if you feel “okay,” internal injuries may not show symptoms right away.
2. Get the driver’s information. Name, contact details, insurance, and license plate number.
3. Talk to witnesses. Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash.
4. Take photos. Document the scene, injuries, vehicle damage, and surroundings.
5. Avoid speaking to the driver’s insurance company until you’ve consulted a lawyer.
6. Call a pedestrian accident attorney. The sooner you have legal representation, the stronger your case will be.

How Long Do You Have To File A Pedestrian Injury Claim?

Each state has its own statute of limitations for personal injury claims. In most states, you generally have two to three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, this deadline can vary depending on your location and the circumstances of the case—such as if the liable party is a government agency.

Delays can weaken your case, so it’s crucial to consult a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after your injury.

Why Choose KBD Attorneys?

KBD Attorneys has built a strong reputation for holding negligent drivers accountable and helping injury victims rebuild their lives. The team has:

• Decades of combined trial experience
• A track record of winning millions in verdicts and settlements
• Deep knowledge of local traffic laws and pedestrian rights
• Compassionate, client-focused representation

They don’t just fight for compensation—they fight for accountability. The goal is to make sure your voice is heard and your future is protected.

Contact A Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

If you were injured as a pedestrian—or lost a loved one in a preventable crash—contact KBD Attorneys for a free consultation. They will listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you understand your legal options.

Call us today or visit our KBD Attorneys website to speak with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney.