Des Moines Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Helping Bicyclists, Walkers, Joggers & Other Pedestrians Recover

Iowa has one of the lowest rates of traffic-related pedestrian deaths in the country, with .59 pedestrians killed per 100,000 people in 2010. However, the 18 families of pedestrians killed and the innumerable other people injured in traffic accidents in 2010 know that this rate is not low enough.

Hope Law Firm seeks zero tolerance for pedestrian deaths in Iowa. Our Des Moines pedestrian accident lawyers can fight for the justice you deserve if a negligent motorist ran into you while you were walking, jogging, bicycling, or engaging in any other activity on one of our state’s roadways or sidewalks. Our team can investigate the cause of the crash and build a strong case against the driver and any other responsible party to recover the maximum possible damages for a claim. We effectively counter assertions that our clients contributed to an injury, a tactic used by defense attorneys to reduce the damages owed by the negligent person, government, or corporation.

Contact us online or call (515) 298-5056 to get started on your case with a free consultation.

Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

A pedestrian is vulnerable to serious injuries even if a motorist hits the person at slow speed. A pedestrian lacks the protection to counter the 4,000 pounds of metal that make up an average American car. Heavier automobiles, such as SUVs, vans, buses, commercial vehicles, and tractor-trailers, and vehicles traveling at high speeds compound the risks of catastrophic or fatal injuries.

Motorists can put pedestrians’ safety in jeopardy by:

• Texting
• Using a mobile phone
• Being distracted
• Driving drunk or on drugs
• Speeding
• Running a red light or stop sign
• Failing to yield at crosswalks
• Trying to pass too close

In almost all cases, a pedestrian accident is avoidable if motorists take precautions.

Municipalities Can Prevent Pedestrian Injuries

The municipalities of Des Moines and the surrounding towns can take steps to create a more pedestrian-friendly community.

Common design and maintenance problems that municipalities can improve include:

• Dim street lighting
• Broken traffic signals at busy intersections
• Stop signs obscured by overgrown vegetation
• Lack of crosswalks
• Inadequate bike lanes
• Damaged or absent sidewalks

The failure to address these conditions can result in pedestrian traffic deaths and injuries.

Corporate Responsibility

Corporations can also cause dangerous conditions for pedestrians by:

• Illegally parking a commercial vehicle in a bike lane
• Blocking sidewalks with construction materials
• Damaging walkways, thereby forcing pedestrians to walk into traffic

These are just some of the risks that increase the risk of traffic accidents.

Vehicle Speed and Pedestrian Injury

Studies show that the faster a vehicle is traveling when it strikes a pedestrian, the more likely that pedestrian is to suffer serious injuries or death. The risk of severe injury is:

• 10% at an impact speed of 16 miles per hour
• 25% at an impact speed of 23 miles per hour
• 50% at an impact speed of 31 miles per hour
• 75% at an impact speed of 39 miles per hour
• 90% at an impact speed of 46 miles per hour

Similarly, the risk of death increases with the speed upon impact.

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Claims

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, and it's important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. Our team of experienced Des Moines pedestrian accident attorneys at Hope Law Firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

When pursuing a pedestrian accident claim, it's crucial to consider the following:

• Liability: Determining who was at fault for the accident is key to building a strong case. Our attorneys will investigate the circumstances of the accident to establish liability.
• Damages: Injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can be severe and have long-lasting effects. We will work to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
• Insurance: Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming. Our legal team will handle all communication with insurance adjusters to protect your rights.
• Legal Process: Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially when recovering from injuries. Our attorneys will guide you through each step of the legal process and provide the support you need.

Don't wait to seek the legal help you need after a pedestrian accident. Contact Hope Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with our dedicated team.