The Maine pedestrian accident attorneys at Peter Thompson & Associates are known for their excellence in personal injury law. We are dedicated to defending the rights of victims injured by negligence. Our offices are conveniently located in Portland, Bangor, and Falmouth to serve clients throughout Maine.
Pedestrian accidents cause some of the most devastating injuries and fatalities on the road. The human body is not equipped to withstand the force of rapidly approaching steel or concrete. Even at low speeds, the impact on the human skeleton can cause severe harm. Pedestrian accidents present a serious problem in Maine and other countries that have become increasingly dependent upon motor vehicles as the primary means of transportation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 65,000 pedestrians are injured in accidents each year. Pedestrian fatalities are higher in urban areas due to the increased volume of traffic.
Bodily injuries in pedestrian accidents include:
Pedestrians and drivers each have legal duties to act with care. Unfortunately, even the most careful pedestrian is less visible and at greater risk of injury than a normal driver on the road. Drivers are therefore more likely to be found negligent in accidents involving pedestrians. Even with flashing lights, refuge islands, and speed bumps, pedestrians remain unprotected against negligent drivers. Negligent driving includes any careless conduct, from failing to pay attention to violating the speed limit. Vehicles traveling at higher speeds are less likely to notice or stop in time to avoid hitting pedestrians. SUVs and large vehicles also exert a greater force upon hitting a pedestrian.
Motorists have a duty to “exercise due care" when passing a pedestrian by leaving a distance of at least 3 feet. They are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians on sidewalks, marked crosswalks, and most intersections. Maine law prohibits drivers from trying to overtake another vehicle that is stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross. When necessary, the motorist may give a warning by sounding the horn or exercising caution upon spotting a child or visibly confused, incapacitated, or intoxicated person. Failure to yield the right of way to a visually impaired pedestrian may result in a traffic infraction and fine of up to $1,000.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, the caring Maine pedestrian accident lawyers at Peter Thompson & Associates can help. We have successfully handled all types of pedestrian accident cases. As the injured victim, you may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. We can vastly improve your chances of obtaining full compensation for your harm. You pay nothing unless we recover for you. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand that pedestrian accidents cause serious injuries. We are dedicated to helping you achieve the best outcome possible in your case. Call one of our experienced pedestrian accident lawyers today at 800.804.2004 or contact us online.
Example of a Pedestrian Accident Case We HandledAdditional Pedestrian Accident Topics