Between 2009 and 2019, the state of Tennessee saw a 117% increase in pedestrian accident deaths according to the state’s Department of Transportation. The roads have become increasingly dangerous for walkers, and those who are hurt or killed in a pedestrian accident need to know their rights if a crash changes their life.
The Lawyers of Brown and Roberto can help. Since 1979, our firm has represented accident victims. Over time, our attorneys have helped clients recover more than $50 million in compensation for their losses, including in one recent pedestrian accident claim where a client received $2.1 million after a car struck them.
We pride ourselves on establishing trust with our clients so they can focus on getting better or rebuilding their lives after a serious or fatal pedestrian crash while we fight for the compensation they need to move forward. Give us a call today at (865) 691-2777 to speak with a Knoxville pedestrian accident attorney to learn more.
Who is Responsible for a Knoxville Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrian accidents are most likely to occur mid-block while drivers are traveling straight, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation. Going straight at an intersection was the second most common circumstance under which accidents occurred while crashes that happen while drivers are backing up or parking are more rare.
In some cases, pedestrians cause or contribute to these crashes by stepping out into traffic. In many other circumstances, however, drivers are engaged in unsafe behavior such as driving while intoxicated or distracted, speeding, drowsy driving, or aggressive driving. If a driver is wholly or partly responsible for causing a pedestrian crash, that driver can be held accountable in Tennessee.
In fact, as McIntyre v. Balentine explains, “so long as a plaintiff’s negligence remains less than the defendant’s negligence the plaintiff may recover; in such a case, plaintiff’s damages are to be reduced in proportion to the percentage of the total negligence attributable to the plaintiff.”
Pedestrians will need to prove negligence to hold drivers accountable, which Giggers v. Memphis Housing Auth states is ” the failure to exercise reasonable care.” A pedestrian who can show a driver failed to fulfill their duty to keep them safe may be able to make a successful claim.
What Does a Knoxville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Do?
When you are pursuing a pedestrian accident case, you have a one-year timeline to file your claim under Tennessee’s statute of limitations found in Tennessee Code Section 28-3-104. An experienced Knoxville pedestrian accident attorney can start working on your case from day one to gather evidence, show the driver was responsible and demonstrate the extent of your losses.
The Knoxville personal injury attorneys at The Lawyers of Brown and Roberto will work to successfully negotiate a settlement to help you get fair compensation outside of court when possible. We can also fight on your behalf in a courtroom as we have extensive litigation experience and are members of the Tennessee Trial Lawyers Association.
Our car accident lawyers in Knoxville understand the complexities that often exist in pedestrian accident cases as it can sometimes be difficult for witnesses or the police to determine if the driver or the pedestrian was to blame. We’ll work with you to gather all evidence including expert testimony, to show that you should be “made whole” or compensated fully for the harm that you endured.
Contact Us To Learn How Our Knoxville Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Don’t leave your pedestrian accident case to chance, as a lot of money is often at stake due to the serious injuries these crashes can cause. Contact the Lawyers of Brown and Roberto at (865) 691-2777 today to speak with an experienced Knoxville pedestrian accident attorney who will fight for you.