The Maryland Pedestrian Accident Lawyer You Need To Protect Your Interests
Whether you were trying to get through a crosswalk or navigating a busy parking lot, being struck by a car or another motor vehicle can leave you with serious injuries – some with lifelong consequences.
Founded in 1961 by Peter Angelos, Peter Angelos Law has been a longstanding presence in the Baltimore community. Our lawyers work hard to support their clients through some of the most challenging and distressing situations imaginable, and our team always seeks to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
What Makes Pedestrian Accidents Different From Other Motor Vehicle Accidents?
Maryland law tries to protect pedestrians as much as possible. Drivers are expected to come to a complete stop at crosswalks when the pedestrian is either approaching or on the driver’s side of the road. Drivers are also required to give pedestrians in crosswalks the right-of-way when the driver is turning into the pedestrian’s path. It’s also illegal to pass another vehicle that has stopped to permit a pedestrian to cross.
Despite these laws aimed at protecting pedestrian safety, pedestrians still get hit by distracted, aggressive, impaired or otherwise negligent drivers all the time. In 2020 alone, Baltimore had at least 2,345 pedestrian accidents, and 138 of those were fatal.
Generally, pedestrian accidents lead to more severe injuries than accidents involving two-passenger vehicles or accidents involving passenger cars and trucks, simply because pedestrians are completely vulnerable. A pedestrian hit by a car has no barrier between their body and the vehicle that hits them, nor does the pavement they land upon – and muscle and bone cannot withstand metal and concrete. Many pedestrians have permanent injuries that will affect their lives forever.
What Are The Most Common Injuries Resulting From Pedestrian Accidents?
When a pedestrian is struck by a car, they can suffer a wide range of injuries that depend on factors such as the speed of the vehicle, the size and age of the pedestrian, the point of impact and more.
Common injuries suffered by pedestrians hit by a car include:
- Concussions to the brain
- Open and closed skull fractures
- Brain bleeding and swelling
- Whiplash injuries and neck injuries
- Spinal fractures and broken vertebrae
- Spinal cord injuries that lead to partial or complete paralysis
- Compound leg fractures to the femurs, tibias and fibulas
- Arm and wrist fractures from trying to brace for impact
- Pelvic bone and hip fractures from being struck on their lower body
- Facial lacerations from hitting the pavement, curbs or other items
- Organ damage to the liver, spleen or kidneys from blunt force trauma
- Internal bleeding and swelling from hidden damage
- Dental injuries, including broken teeth and broken jaws
- Facial bone fractures, including orbital fractures
- Rib fractures and collapsed lungs
- Cardiac contusions (bruising of the heart muscle)
- Eye injuries from direct impact or flying debris
It is also not unusual for pedestrians who have been struck by a car to develop post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression triggered by the accident during the recovery process.
What Should You Do If You Are Hit By A Car Or Another Vehicle?
Call 911 and seek medical help. Recognize that adrenaline and shock can cause delayed reactions to pain and injuries, and some internal injuries may not even be immediately apparent. Do not attempt to move until medical assistance arrives.
As soon as possible, seek legal guidance. At Peter Angelos Law, we know that early representation by a crosswalk accident lawyer can be key to making certain that our clients are shielded from attempts by insurance companies to push them into an early settlement or blame them for their accidents and injuries.
Get Trustworthy Legal Guidance From A Firm With A Clear History Of Success
At Peter Angelos Law, we fight to win. Our founding attorney’s name has long been synonymous with customized client service, and we continue to carry on the legacy he created by helping the injured in Baltimore. Our team of attorneys has the resources and skills that it takes to aggressively pursue fair compensation for your losses, and that can make it easier for you to move forward with your life.
If you are a pedestrian who was injured by a driver’s negligence, don’t hesitate to call 410-216-0009 or use our online form to schedule your no-cost, no-obligation consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer.