Taking a walking tour of Nassau County and crossing the street should never be a source of worry. Much less should we be unsure whether or not we will return home without any injury or discomfort.
No one has the right to violently barge in on any of us, affecting our right to recreation, outdoor exercise, and the ability to move where we want and when we want entirely on foot.
In the fast-paced, convenience-driven world of modern living, it is becoming increasingly important to stop and enjoy walking. Nassau County provides a beautiful setting for strolling, which is not only a way to get around but also a means of improving one's health and overall well-being.
Integrating regular walks into our daily lives is a powerful antidote in an era dominated by fast-paced routines and prolonged sedentary behavior. Walking isn't merely a mode of getting from one point to another; it is a holistic investment in our physical and mental health.
Nassau County's charming landscapes and pedestrian-friendly environment invite individuals to embark on journeys that contribute to cardiovascular fitness and foster mental clarity and overall vitality.
As we champion the right to navigate Nassau County on foot without fear, let us celebrate the manifold benefits that walking bestows. From improved physical health to a revitalized mental state, every step we take contributes to our well-being and the vibrant tapestry of our Nassau County community.
Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Serving Nassau County with Dedication
At The Ward Law Group, our commitment is unwavering to offer unparalleled legal support to those who have endured the aftermath of pedestrian accidents in Nassau County.
Our adept Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Nassau County comprehend victims' distinctive challenges, providing steadfast guidance through the legal maze and ensuring rightful compensation is secured.
With an illustrious history spanning almost three decades, The Ward Law Group has been a pillar of support for pedestrian accident victims. Focused exclusively on personal injury cases in Nassau County, our conveniently located office at 535 5th Ave Suite 910, New York, proves we are now close to you!
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents as Responsible Drivers
As conscientious drivers, it is imperative to be vigilant about potential hazards to pedestrians and adopt proactive measures to avert accidents. Here are essential tips to bear in mind:
- Stay Alert: Maintain heightened awareness, especially in areas with pedestrian activity, such as crosswalks, school zones, and residential neighborhoods. Refrain from distractions like texting or adjusting the radio while driving.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Obey posted speed limits and diminish your speed in zones with likely pedestrian presence. Slower speeds offer more reaction time to unforeseen situations.
- Yield the Right of Way: Always yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks, even when there are no traffic signals. Exercise patience and permit them to cross safely.
- Exercise Caution at Intersections: Turn cautiously at intersections, as pedestrians might cross from different directions. Be attentive to “Walk” and “Don’t Walk” signals.
- Avoid Impaired Driving: Never drive under the influence of substances impairing judgment and reaction time. Impaired driving significantly heightens the risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Use Extra Caution in Poor Weather: Adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog reduce visibility. Exercise extra caution and reduce speed during inclement weather.
- Check Blind Spots: Before turning or changing lanes, meticulously check blind spots to ensure no pedestrians are in your path.
- Respect School Zones: Exercise heightened caution in school zones and near school buses, where children may not always be mindful of traffic.
By adhering to these guidelines, drivers can substantially diminish the likelihood of being involved in a pedestrian accident, contributing to the overall safety of Nassau County's roadways.
What to Do if Involved in a Pedestrian Accident
If you find yourself or a loved one struck by a motor vehicle while walking in Nassau County, swift and accurate actions are imperative. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize health and well-being by calling 911 or asking someone nearby to do so. Accept medical treatment, even for seemingly minor injuries.
- Remain at the Scene: Stay at the accident scene and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Cooperate fully, providing accurate information for the accident report.
- Gather Information: If possible, collect details from the involved driver, including their name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance details. Also, obtain contact information from witnesses.
- Document the Scene: Capture photos or videos of the accident scene, visible injuries, and property damage. This documentation serves as valuable evidence.
- Preserve Evidence: Retain damaged clothing or personal items for potential use as evidence in your case.
- Contact an Attorney: Swiftly reach out to an experienced pedestrian accident attorney, and The Ward Law Group stands ready to assist. Our dedicated team ensures your rights are safeguarded throughout the legal process.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to healthcare provider recommendations, attend all medical appointments, and document medical expenses and treatments received.
- Maintain Detailed Records: Keep meticulous records of communication, medical bills, and other expenses related to the accident, forming a crucial foundation for building your case.
Am I Still Eligible for Compensation if I Contributed to My Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrian accidents, much like bicycle accidents, can involve shared blame. In Nassau County, New York, compensation eligibility is addressed under the legal framework of contributory negligence. At The Ward Law Group, our experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in New York are here to guide you through the complexities of these cases.
Understanding Contributory Negligence in Nassau County
Nassau County operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. If your share of fault in the accident is 50% or less, you are still entitled to seek compensation for your injuries. However, any damages awarded may be reduced in proportion to your assigned percentage of fault.
For instance, If your damages amount to $50,000, and you are deemed 20% responsible for the accident, your recovery will be adjusted to $40,000 ($50,000 - 20% = $40,000). If you are assigned 51% or more blame, seeking compensation becomes challenging.
Insurance Tactics and the Importance of Legal Representation from an Expert New York City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer.
Insurance companies often use these rules to minimize their financial obligations. Successfully shifting blame onto the injured party allows them to reduce or avoid a payout. If you find yourself being held responsible for the accident, it is crucial to consult with a Nassau County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer promptly.
We Advocate for Your Rights and Full Compensation
At The Ward Law Group, we understand the profound impact a pedestrian accident can have on your life. Our legal team is dedicated to fighting for fair compensation for the diverse range of injuries you may have sustained, including but not limited to:
- Brain injuries - Traumatic Brain Injury
- Spinal cord injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
- Broken bones
- Organ damage
- Nerve damage
- Soft tissue injuries
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Joint injuries
- We aim to comprehend the gravity of your injuries and how the accident has altered your daily life.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Nassau County
Pedestrian accidents in Nassau County often result from various factors, predominantly rooted in negligence or human error. At The Ward Law Group, our dedicated Pedestrian Accident Lawyers are committed to unraveling the complexities of these incidents.
Common Contributors to Pedestrian Accidents:
- Inattention: Both drivers and pedestrians fail to pay adequate attention to their surroundings.
- Distracted Behavior: Instances of distracted driving or pedestrians being preoccupied.
- Impaired Driving: Accidents involving alcohol or substances impairing a person's ability to operate a vehicle.
- Excessive Speed: Speeding is a significant factor contributing to accidents.
- Unsafe Turns: Particularly dangerous left-hand turns that pose risks to pedestrians.
- Lack of Road Sharing: Drivers do not adequately share the road with pedestrians.
Visibility Challenges
Many pedestrian accidents occur when drivers overlook or fail to notice pedestrians, influenced by blind spots, road configurations, or other vehicles obstructing their line of sight.
The nature of the human brain, attuned to detect larger vehicles, can sometimes lead to overlooking pedestrians, even when they are visible.
Understanding the root causes of pedestrian accidents is crucial in developing strategies to enhance safety. If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, our pedestrian accident lawyers from New York City are here to provide the legal guidance and advocacy you need to pursue justice and fair compensation.
Establishing Negligence in Nassau County Pedestrian Accidents Cases
In pursuing a pedestrian accident injury claim in Nassau County, New York, proving negligence is fundamental. Essential elements constituting negligence need to be demonstrated for a successful case. At The Ward Law Group, our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers - Personal Injury Attorneys are well-versed in the legal nuances of New York statutes.
Elements of Proving Negligence:
- Duty of Care: Demonstrating that the defendant owed you a duty of care, as expected, in adherence to New York law for motorists and pedestrians.
- Breach of Duty: Establishing that the defendant breached their duty by acting carelessly or negligently.
- Causation: Proving a direct link between the defendant's actions and the occurrence of the pedestrian or car accident.
- Damages: Validating the damages incurred as a result of the accident.
Everyone on the road, motorists or pedestrians, must adhere to the law and exercise reasonable care. Our accomplished Nassau County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys employ various forms of evidence to demonstrate the defendant's negligence:
Witness statements
- Dashcam and traffic camera footage (negligent driver proof)
- Police citations and accident reports
- Scene and vehicle damage photos
- Cell phone records for cases involving distracted driving
In strengthening your case, The Ward Law Group collaborates with specialists who can provide expert testimony on the accident's cause and the damages' extent.
Understanding New York's Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents:
It is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of New York's statutes of limitations when pursuing a personal injury lawsuit after a pedestrian accident. Failure to adhere to these legally defined deadlines may lead to the dismissal of your case.
Under New York law, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including those related to pedestrian accidents, is typically three years from the accident date, as stipulated by New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) § 214.
Therefore, initiating and filing your case within this three-year timeframe is imperative to protect and secure your right to pursue compensation.
In the context of wrongful death claims resulting from fatal pedestrian accidents, New York law generally allows a statute of limitations of two years from the date of the individual's death under New York Estates, Powers and Trusts Law (EPTL) § 5-4.1.
It is essential to note that cases involving a government entity may have shorter deadlines for providing notice and filing a claim. These specific timeframes should be carefully examined based on the circumstances of your case.
Promptly seeking legal counsel after a pedestrian accident is paramount to ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that all necessary actions are taken within the prescribed timeframes dictated by New York law.
Contact A pedestrian accident lawyer
Contact The Ward Law to receive a free evaluation case! Our personal injury lawyers are ready to help you!
With the help of the best professionals in the field, your path to compensation that ratifies your rights as a pedestrian in Nassau County will be easier and simpler. Check out our website for testimonials from many satisfied clients of our top-notch services. A comprehensive and holistic approach. Because together we can handle any situation!
At The Ward Law Group, we recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll that pedestrian accidents exacts on victims and their families. Our unwavering commitment is to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call 855-DOLOR-55 to speak with one of our New York Pedestrian Accident lawyers!