Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian
Pedestrians in crosswalks have the right of way, but the consequences can be catastrophic when drivers fail to yield. In Prince George’s County, failure-to-yield accidents frequently occur at intersections and crosswalks, leaving pedestrians with devastating injuries. When drivers fail to obey traffic laws, holding them accountable for their reckless behavior is essential.
The Prince George’s pedestrian accident lawyers at Foran & Foran have extensive experience handling these cases. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Our team also handles stoplight accident cases, providing comprehensive legal services to pedestrian accident victims. Contact us today to get started on your case.
Common Causes of Failure to Yield Pedestrian AccidentsIn Prince George’s County, busy streets and intersections mean pedestrians are at constant risk. One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is drivers failing to yield the right-of-way. When a vehicle fails to stop or yield as required by law, pedestrians can suffer severe, life-threatening injuries. Maryland law is clear about the responsibilities of drivers when it comes to sharing the road with pedestrians, but unfortunately, many accidents still occur due to driver negligence.
Failure to yield pedestrian accidents often occurs in crosswalks, intersections, or busy parking lots. These accidents are commonly caused by drivers who are:
- Distracted driving Drivers who are texting, talking on their phones, or engaging in other distractions may not see a pedestrian in time to stop. Maryland drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians at marked crosswalks, but distracted driving continues to contribute to pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
- Speeding. Drivers traveling at high speeds may not stop in time to yield the right of way to pedestrians. Speeding also increases the severity of accidents, often resulting in more significant injuries.
- Impaired driving. Drunk or drugged drivers may have delayed reaction times and impaired judgment, leading to dangerous situations for pedestrians. Impaired drivers are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing the street and may not stop or slow down when required.
- Aggressive driving. Drivers in a hurry or frustrated with traffic may fail to yield to pedestrians intentionally or due to reckless driving habits.
In Prince George’s County, these types of accidents occur far too often, leaving pedestrians with severe injuries. According to Maryland State Highway Administration data, Prince George’s County consistently ranks among the highest for pedestrian accidents, particularly in areas with heavy traffic and busy intersections. Pedestrians are especially vulnerable in these situations, as they have no protection against the impact of a vehicle.
Common Injuries in Failure to Yield Pedestrian AccidentsPedestrians involved in accidents where a driver fails to yield often suffer catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI),
- Spinal cord injuries,
- Fractures and broken bones, and
- Internal injuries.
Victims of these accidents face long recovery periods, medical bills, and emotional trauma. A Prince George’s failure to yield to a pedestrian lawyer can help victims seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Proving Liability in Failure to Yield CasesTo recover compensation after a pedestrian accident, proving that the driver was negligent is essential. Failure to yield cases often involves demonstrating that the driver violated traffic laws or failed to exercise reasonable care. Evidence that can support your claim includes:
- Eyewitness testimony. Witnesses to the accident can provide critical testimony about whether the driver failed to yield at a crosswalk or intersection.
- Traffic camera footage. In some areas, traffic cameras may have recorded the accident, showing the driver’s actions leading up to the crash.
- Police reports. Law enforcement officers who respond to the scene will typically file a report detailing the circumstances of the accident and whether any traffic laws were violated.
A Prince George’s County failure to yield to a pedestrian lawyer will gather all relevant evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. We’ll work to hold the negligent driver accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Victims of Pedestrian AccidentsPedestrians injured in failure-to-yield accidents are entitled to seek compensation for their losses. This can include:
- Medical expenses—compensation for hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care;
- Lost wages—if your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income;
- Pain and suffering—victims of pedestrian accidents often experience physical pain and emotional trauma that can significantly impact their quality of life.
At Foran & Foran, our experienced attorneys will fight to ensure you receive full compensation for all your damages. Our team also handles cell phone accidents and driving while distracted cases, offering comprehensive legal support for pedestrian accident victims. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your path to recovery.
Prince George’s County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys You Can Trust
After a pedestrian accident, you need trusted legal representation. Foran & Foran, P.A. brings more than 85 years of combined experience to every case. Let us fight for your right to compensation while you focus on healing. Contact us today at 301-441-2022 to schedule a free consultation.