Have you or a loved one been hurt in a pedestrian accident in Columbus? It’s a frightening experience, and you’re probably facing medical bills, lost wages, and a lot of uncertainty. These accidents happen far too often in our city, and the injuries can be severe. At Hyslip Legal, LLC, we’re committed to helping injured pedestrians get the fair compensation they deserve.
We understand Ohio law, and we know how to deal with insurance companies. Attorney Jeffrey S. Hyslip has the experience and dedication to fight for your rights every step of the way. We offer a completely free consultation to discuss your case. You can call us at (888) 528-8565 or contact us online to schedule a time to talk.
There’s no fee unless we win your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything upfront. We only get paid if we recover money for you.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Columbus
Pedestrian accidents in Columbus happen for many reasons, but most are caused by driver negligence. Knowing the common causes can help you understand your rights and build a stronger case. Here are some of the most frequent factors that lead to pedestrian injuries:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, using navigation, eating, or otherwise not paying attention to the road are a major danger to pedestrians. Even a moment of distraction can have devastating consequences.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers are legally required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. Failing to do so is a common cause of collisions.
- Speeding: Driving too fast reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries if a pedestrian is hit. Speed limits are there to protect everyone, especially vulnerable pedestrians.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI/DWI) significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it much more likely that a driver will hit a pedestrian.
- Poor Visibility: Accidents are more likely to occur at night, in bad weather (rain, snow, fog), or in areas with poor lighting. Drivers have a responsibility to be extra cautious in these conditions.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals is incredibly dangerous and puts pedestrians at extreme risk.
- Left-Hand Turns: Drivers making left turns often fail to see pedestrians crossing the street, especially if they are focused on oncoming traffic.
- Backing Up Accidents: Drivers backing out of driveways or parking spaces may not see pedestrians behind them, leading to serious injuries.
These are just some of the common causes. Every accident is unique, and a thorough investigation may reveal other contributing factors. For a more in-depth look at the causes of pedestrian accidents and how to prevent them, see our article: Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Columbus.
Types of Injuries in Columbus Pedestrian Accidents
Because pedestrians have no protection against the impact of a vehicle, the injuries they suffer in accidents are often severe and life-altering. The specific injuries can vary widely depending on the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and other factors. Here are some of the most common types of injuries seen in Columbus pedestrian accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe, permanent brain damage. They can affect cognitive function, memory, behavior, and physical abilities.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and other serious complications.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: Pedestrians often suffer broken legs, arms, ribs, and pelvises in collisions with vehicles.
- Internal Organ Damage: The force of impact can damage internal organs like the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs.
- Lacerations and Abrasions: Cuts, scrapes, and “road rash” are common, and can lead to infection if not properly treated.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: These include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. While often less severe than other injuries, they can still be painful and debilitating.
- Amputations: In the most severe cases, the force of impact can cause traumatic amputation of limbs.
- Emotional Trauma (PTSD): Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a deeply traumatic experience, leading to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.
- Wrongful Death: Sadly, some pedestrian accidents result in fatalities.
This is not an exhaustive list, and the severity of injuries can vary greatly. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention after any pedestrian accident, even if you don’t feel immediate pain. Some injuries have delayed symptoms.
For more detailed information on specific types of injuries, please see the following articles:
Understanding Ohio Pedestrian Accident Laws
Ohio law provides specific rights and protections for pedestrians. Understanding these laws is essential if you’ve been involved in an accident. While this section provides a brief overview, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney like Jeffrey S. Hyslip at Hyslip Legal, LLC to discuss the specifics of your case.
Key Provisions of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC)
Several sections of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) are particularly relevant to pedestrian accidents:
ORC 4511.46 (Right-of-way at crosswalks)
This law states that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians who are within a crosswalk, whether the crosswalk is marked or unmarked. This is a fundamental protection for pedestrians at intersections.
ORC 4511.48 (Pedestrians on roadways)
This section outlines where pedestrians should walk when sidewalks are not available. It states that pedestrians should walk on the shoulder of the road, facing oncoming traffic, to maximize visibility and safety.
ORC 4511.12 (Obedience to traffic control devices)
This law requires both drivers *and* pedestrians to obey traffic signals and signs. This includes traffic lights, stop signs, and pedestrian crossing signals.
ORC 4511.21 (Assured clear distance ahead)
This crucial law requires drivers to maintain a speed and distance that allows them to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian or any other object in their path. It essentially means drivers must be able to see and react to hazards.
Ohio’s Comparative Negligence Law (ORC 2315.33)
Ohio follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. However, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover any damages. If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your total damages are $100,000, you could still recover $80,000.
For a more detailed explanation of these and other relevant laws, please see our comprehensive guide: Ohio Pedestrian Laws: A Comprehensive Guide for Accident Victims.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Columbus
Being involved in a pedestrian accident is a traumatic experience. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your health, safety, and your ability to pursue a legal claim. Follow these steps if you’re able:
- Call 911: Report the accident to the police and request emergency medical assistance, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries have delayed symptoms, and a police report is crucial for your claim.
- Gather Information: If you’re able, collect the following information:
- Driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details.
- Vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.
- Names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Identify Witnesses: Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. Their statements can be vital to your case.
- Take Photos: Use your phone to take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicle involved, any relevant traffic signals or signs, and the surrounding area. Visual evidence is powerful.
- Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel okay. Document all your injuries, treatments, and medical expenses. This is critical for both your health and your legal claim.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Do not make any statements to the driver, the insurance company, or even the police that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued. Simply state the facts.
- Contact a Columbus Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: An experienced attorney at Hyslip Legal, LLC can protect your rights, guide you through the process, and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us for a free consultation.
Taking these steps can help protect your legal rights and ensure you have the best possible chance of recovering fair compensation for your injuries.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident, dealing with insurance companies can be one of the most frustrating and challenging aspects of the process. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they may use various tactics to try to deny or undervalue your claim. It’s crucial to understand your rights and protect yourself.
Remember, the insurance company is not on your side. Their primary goal is to protect their bottom line, not to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Where Does the Money Come From?
In most cases, compensation for your injuries will come from the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy. Ohio requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. This insurance is designed to cover damages caused by the driver’s negligence.
Your Own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
What happens if the at-fault driver is uninsured or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages? This is where your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage comes in. This coverage, which is part of your own auto insurance policy, can provide additional compensation in these situations. It’s essential to review your policy and understand your UM/UIM coverage limits.
Here are some common tactics insurance companies use:
- Requesting a Recorded Statement: They may pressure you to give a recorded statement. You are not legally obligated to do so, and it’s generally best to decline until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Offering a Quick, Low Settlement: They may offer you a quick settlement before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and long-term medical needs. These offers are often far less than what your claim is actually worth.
- Downplaying Your Injuries: They may try to minimize the severity of your injuries or suggest they were pre-existing.
- Shifting Blame: They may attempt to shift blame for the accident onto you, even if the driver was clearly at fault.
- Delaying the Process: They may delay investigating your claim or processing your paperwork, hoping you’ll become frustrated and accept a low offer.
The best way to protect yourself is to avoid direct communication with the insurance company. Let an experienced attorney at Hyslip Legal, LLC handle all communications on your behalf. We know how to deal with insurance adjusters and will fight to protect your rights.
For a more detailed guide on navigating interactions with insurance companies, please see our article: Dealing with Insurance Companies after a Pedestrian Accident.
Why You Need a Columbus Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
After a pedestrian accident, you may be wondering if you really need a lawyer. The insurance company might seem cooperative at first, but the reality is that navigating the legal process and securing fair compensation can be incredibly complex. Hiring an experienced Columbus pedestrian accident attorney at Hyslip Legal, LLC can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Here’s why:
- We Level the Playing Field: Insurance companies have teams of lawyers and adjusters working to protect their interests. You need an advocate on *your* side who understands Ohio law and knows how to fight for your rights.
- We Handle All Communication with the Insurance Company: We’ll deal with the adjusters, so you don’t have to. This protects you from making statements that could harm your claim.
- We Thoroughly Investigate Your Accident: We’ll gather all the necessary evidence, including police reports, witness statements, medical records, and photos of the scene, to build the strongest possible case. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary.
- We Accurately Calculate Your Damages: We’ll help you determine the full extent of your losses, including not only your current medical bills and lost wages, but also future medical expenses, future lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- We Negotiate for a Fair Settlement: We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies and will work tirelessly to obtain a settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries.
- We’re Prepared to Go to Trial: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Attorney Jeffrey S. Hyslip is an experienced litigator who will fight for you in the courtroom.
- You Pay Nothing Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t owe us any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. There’s no financial risk to hiring us.
At Hyslip Legal, LLC, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized legal representation to pedestrian accident victims in Columbus. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation. Ohio law allows accident victims to recover damages for a wide range of losses. The specific types and amount of compensation you can receive will depend on the circumstances of your case. At Hyslip Legal, LLC, we will thoroughly evaluate your situation to determine all the damages you’ve suffered.
Here are some of the types of compensation you may be able to recover:
- Medical Expenses (Past and Future): This includes all costs associated with your medical treatment, such as ambulance fees, hospital bills, doctor’s visits, physical therapy, medication, and any future medical care you may require.
- Lost Wages (Past and Future): If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for lost income. This includes not only wages you’ve already lost, but also any future earnings you may lose due to your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: This covers the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced as a result of the accident and your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: This includes compensation for mental anguish, anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts of the accident.
- Disability: If your injuries result in a permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for the loss of your ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life.
- Disfigurement: If the accident caused scarring, disfigurement, or other permanent physical changes, you can seek compensation for this.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: This covers the loss of your ability to participate in activities and hobbies you enjoyed before the accident.
- Property Damage: If any of your personal property (e.g., clothing, phone) was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for its repair or replacement.
Calculating the full value of your claim can be complex, especially when it comes to non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Attorney Jeffrey S. Hyslip has the experience and knowledge to accurately assess your losses and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you likely have many questions after a pedestrian accident. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive at Hyslip Legal, LLC. Remember, this is general information, and your specific situation may require personalized legal advice. We encourage you to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.
For more detailed answers and additional frequently asked questions, please see our comprehensive FAQ page: Pedestrian Accident FAQs: Everything You Need to Know.
REQUEST FREE CASE REVIEW
NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN
🔒 Secure & Confidential | ✅ 1,000+ Clients Helped
⭐ 5-Star Google Reviews