Woodbury Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, our Woodbury, MN pedestrian accident lawyer is here to help you. We know how devastating pedestrian accidents can be, and we fight hard to help our clients recover the compensation that they deserve. To discover exactly how we may be able to assist you with your specific pedestrian accident case, contact Bennerotte & Associates, P.A. today to schedule your free consultation.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Woodbury, MN
A pedestrian accident occurs when a car, motorcycle, or other motor vehicle, collides with someone walking or running along the side of the road or in a crosswalk. Unfortunately, these accidents can be quite common, and the consequences can be devastating to victims. Heavy financial losses and serious injuries including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, internal organ injuries, and even death can result from pedestrian accidents. Our Woodbury pedestrian accident attorney will fight hard to help you pursue justice and compensation after an accident.
The first step of pursuing compensation after a pedestrian accident is determining the cause of the collision and who is liable for the accident. Our team will investigate your accident and gather evidence to support your claim. Many pedestrian accidents are caused simply by driver negligence, but if the driver was speeding, driving distracted, driving under the influence, or acting recklessly or dangerously in some other manner, their liability may be increased. Once we have determined the full scope of liability, our team will represent you in negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company in pursuit of the maximum amount of compensation that you deserve.
Compensation for victims of pedestrian accidents often includes payment for medical bills and expenses, rehabilitation and therapy, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. We strive to settle cases outside of court, but if we cannot reach a fair agreement, our team is prepared to take your case to trial in order to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation that you deserve in order to move forward after an accident.
Why Experience Matters In Pedestrian Accident Cases
Recovering from a pedestrian accident can be a daunting task, and it is important that victims receive the full amount of compensation that they deserve. Our Minnesota pedestrian accident lawyer has the experience necessary to help ensure that your rights are protected after an accident.
- Our firm has recovered millions of dollars for hundreds of injury victims in Minnesota
- Our team of attorneys has over 120 years of combined experience and has helped thousands of clients over their respective careers
- Founding Attorney Thomas R. Bennerotte holds membership in professional associations such as Best Attorneys of America, America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators, and NAOPIA Top Ten Attorney
You do not have to recover from a pedestrian accident alone. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. Contact Bennerotte & Associates, P.A. today to schedule a your free consultation and take a crucial step to protect your rights after a pedestrian accident.
Why You Need A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer After Being Hit By A Vehicle
Being hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian is a terrifying and traumatic experience. In a split second, your life can be turned upside down—leaving you with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting medical bills. While the driver’s insurance company may offer a quick settlement, it’s crucial to understand that accepting that offer without legal advice could cost you far more in the long run. This is where our Woodbury, MN pedestrian accident lawyer becomes a vital ally.
Here’s why hiring our pedestrian accident lawyer after being hit by a vehicle is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your health, finances, and future.
Understanding Your Rights As A Pedestrian
Many pedestrians don’t realize that they have strong legal protections under the law. Drivers are required to operate their vehicles with care, especially around pedestrians. When they fail to do so—by speeding, texting while driving, ignoring crosswalks, or running red lights—they can be held liable for the injuries they cause.
Our pedestrian accident lawyer knows these laws inside and out. They’ll evaluate the details of your case and determine whether the driver, a third party, or even the city (for poor road design or maintenance) is at fault.
Proving Liability Is Not Always Straightforward
Even in situations where it seems obvious the driver was at fault, insurance companies may still try to shift blame to the pedestrian. For example, they may argue that you were jaywalking, crossing against the light, or not paying attention.
Our skilled pedestrian accident attorney will gather the evidence necessary to prove the driver’s negligence. This may include:
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Accident reconstruction experts
Our lawyer builds a strong case to ensure that liability is clearly established and that you aren’t unfairly blamed.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Pedestrian injuries are often severe—broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and internal damage are common. The costs of recovery can be overwhelming, including emergency treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and time off work.
Our pedestrian accident lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements that barely cover basic costs. Our lawyer will negotiate aggressively to make sure you get the compensation you truly deserve.
Handling The Insurance Company For You
Dealing with insurance adjusters after an accident is stressful and time-consuming. They may pressure you to give a recorded statement or sign documents that limit your rights. Our lawyer acts as your shield, handling all communication and paperwork so you don’t fall into their traps.
If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, your lawyer can take the case to court and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
Being hit by a vehicle is a life-altering event, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our Woodbury pedestrian accident lawyer will fight to protect your rights, prove fault, and recover the compensation you need to rebuild your life. At Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., we are here to help.
The Role Of Expert Witnesses In Pedestrian Accident Cases
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the consequences can be devastating. Victims often suffer serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and lasting emotional trauma. Proving fault and securing fair compensation in these cases is not always straightforward, especially when the driver or insurance company disputes liability. That’s where expert witnesses become invaluable. Our Woodbury, MN pedestrian accident lawyer often relies on these professionals to provide specialized knowledge that can make or break a case.
What Is An Expert Witness?
An expert witness is a professional with specialized knowledge, training, or experience in a specific field who is called upon to provide testimony in legal proceedings. Unlike ordinary witnesses who testify about what they saw or experienced, expert witnesses offer informed opinions that help judges and juries understand complex issues.
In pedestrian accident cases, expert witnesses provide clarity on how the accident occurred, the extent of the injuries, and the long-term impact on the victim’s life.
Types Of Expert Witnesses In Pedestrian Accident Cases
1. Accident Reconstruction Experts
One of the most common types of expert witnesses in pedestrian accident cases is an accident reconstructionist. These professionals analyze evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, surveillance footage, and roadway conditions to determine how the collision happened. They can testify about vehicle speed, driver reaction time, and whether the driver had enough time to avoid hitting the pedestrian. Their testimony can be powerful in proving negligence.
2. Medical Experts
Medical experts, often the treating doctors or independent specialists, provide detailed testimony about the victim’s injuries. They explain how the accident caused the injuries, what treatment is necessary, and whether the victim will face long-term or permanent disabilities. Their insights help establish both the severity of the injuries and the projected costs of future care.
3. Economic Experts
Pedestrian accidents often result in lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and long-term financial strain. Economists or vocational experts can evaluate the impact of the injuries on the victim’s ability to work. They provide calculations on lost income, diminished career opportunities, and the overall financial toll on the victim and their family.
4. Mental Health Professionals
In some cases, a pedestrian accident causes psychological harm such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mental health experts can testify about the emotional impact of the accident, which is especially important when seeking damages for pain and suffering.
Why Expert Witnesses Are Crucial
Expert testimony strengthens a pedestrian accident case in several ways:
- Clarifies complex evidence – Experts simplify technical or scientific details for judges and juries.
- Supports causation – They help prove that the driver’s negligence directly caused the victim’s injuries.
- Establishes damages – By showing the long-term effects of the accident, experts help justify higher compensation.
- Counters defense arguments – If the driver’s legal team tries to downplay injuries or shift blame, expert witnesses provide credible rebuttals.
How Lawyers Work With Expert Witnesses
Our pedestrian accident lawyer carefully selects the right experts to build the strongest case. They collaborate closely with these professionals, ensuring that their testimony aligns with the evidence and directly addresses the disputed issues. Our lawyer then presents expert findings in a clear, compelling way during settlement negotiations or at trial.
Pedestrian accident cases can be complex, with disputes over fault, injuries, and compensation. Expert witnesses provide the specialized knowledge needed to clarify these issues and strengthen a victim’s claim. By working with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, economists, and mental health experts, our Woodbury pedestrian accident lawyer ensures that every aspect of the victim’s suffering is fully understood and fairly valued. Their role is often the difference between a denied claim and a successful settlement or verdict. At Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., we are here to help you.
Understanding Right-of-Way Laws In Pedestrian Accident Cases
As our Woodbury, MN pedestrian accident lawyer can confirm, right-of-way laws are designed to protect both pedestrians and drivers, reducing confusion on the road and preventing accidents. Unfortunately, when these laws are ignored—or misunderstood—serious pedestrian accidents can occur. In many cases, disputes about who had the right of way play a central role in determining fault and compensation. For victims of pedestrian accidents, understanding these laws is crucial, especially when pursuing a legal claim.
The Basics Of Right-of-Way Laws
Right-of-way laws establish who has the legal priority in traffic situations. While laws vary by state, most share some key rules:
- Pedestrians in Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing at marked or unmarked crosswalks in most circumstances.
- Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and only cross when it is legally safe to do so.
- Intersections Without Signals: If no traffic signals are present, pedestrians generally have the right of way at intersections.
- Sidewalks and Driveways: Vehicles entering or exiting driveways or alleys must yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.
These rules are designed to keep pedestrians safe, but accidents often happen when drivers fail to yield or pedestrians cross outside of designated areas.
How Right-of-Way Affects Liability
In pedestrian accident cases, right-of-way laws often determine who is legally responsible. For example, if a driver runs a red light and hits a pedestrian in a crosswalk, the driver is clearly at fault. However, if a pedestrian darts into the street outside of a crosswalk, the case may be more complicated.
Liability isn’t always black and white. Courts and insurance companies look at the total circumstances, including whether both parties were acting reasonably. In some states, comparative negligence rules apply, meaning a pedestrian may still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault.
Common Disputes In Pedestrian Accident Cases
One of the biggest challenges in pedestrian accident cases is conflicting accounts of what happened. Drivers may argue that the pedestrian wasn’t in the crosswalk or crossed against the light, while pedestrians may insist they had the right of way. Witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports often play a critical role in resolving these disputes.
Another frequent issue involves visibility. A driver may claim they couldn’t see the pedestrian due to poor lighting, bad weather, or obstructions. While these factors are considered, they don’t excuse a driver’s responsibility to exercise caution.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Because pedestrian accident cases often hinge on right-of-way laws and disputed facts, having a pedestrian accident lawyer is invaluable. Our lawyers gather evidence, reconstruct the accident, and use legal knowledge to demonstrate liability. They also ensure that insurance companies don’t unfairly shift blame onto the pedestrian to minimize payouts.
Our lawyer can also help calculate damages beyond immediate medical bills, including lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering—critical in cases involving severe injuries.
Right-of-way laws are at the heart of many pedestrian accident claims, but proving fault isn’t always straightforward. Both drivers and pedestrians have responsibilities, and disputes over who had the legal right of way can complicate the case. For victims, working with our Woodbury pedestrian accident lawyer can make the difference between an unfair settlement and full, fair compensation.
At Bennerotte & Associates, P.A., we are here to help you.