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Dedicated Legal Support for Mid-West Houston Pedestrians
Walking through the Mid-West neighborhood of Houston should be safe, whether you are commuting to work or running errands near Harwin Drive. However, heavy traffic and distracted drivers often lead to devastating collisions. If you or a loved one has been injured, working with a Houston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer can make a significant difference in your recovery process.
At Nguyen & Associates, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents in the Mid-West area. We provide compassionate, aggressive representation to help you hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the resources you need to heal.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Mid-West Houston
Pedestrian accidents often occur because a driver failed to pay attention to their surroundings. In the busy streets of Houston’s Mid-West district, common factors include:
- Distracted driving (texting or using GPS)
- Failure to yield the right-of-way at crosswalks
- Speeding in residential or high-traffic commercial zones
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Disregarding traffic signals and stop signs
These incidents frequently result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Because pedestrians have no protection against a multi-ton vehicle, the road to recovery is often long and difficult.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you are involved in an accident while walking, your priority should always be your health and safety. Following these steps can help protect your well-being and any future legal claim:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may not show symptoms immediately.
- Call the Police: Ensure an official report is filed. This provides an objective record of the incident.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, the vehicle, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not apologize or make statements about the cause of the accident to the driver or insurance adjusters until you speak with a lawyer.
- Contact a Lawyer: A legal professional can handle communication with insurance companies on your behalf.
Understanding Liability and Fault in Texas
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident, provided your responsibility does not exceed 50%. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. Our team works to investigate the facts of your case to ensure that fault is assigned accurately and fairly.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover
While every case is unique, pedestrian accident victims in Houston may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These generally fall into two categories:
Economic Damages
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
The Legal Process and Timeline
The timeline for a pedestrian accident claim varies depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Generally, the process involves:
- Investigation: Gathering evidence, medical records, and expert testimony.
- Demand and Negotiation: Sending a demand letter to the insurance company and attempting to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we may file a formal lawsuit to protect your rights.
- Discovery and Mediation: Both sides exchange information and often attempt to resolve the case through mediation.
- Trial: If necessary, the case will proceed to trial where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
What if the driver who hit me fled the scene?
Hit-and-run accidents are complex, but you may still have options for recovery through your own uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues. We can help you explore these possibilities.
How long do I have to file a claim in Houston?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is critical to act quickly to preserve evidence.
Contact a Mid-West Houston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in the Mid-West area of Houston, do not face the insurance companies alone. We are here to provide the guidance and advocacy you deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain your legal options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.