Pedestrian Accidents: Help From Frogale Law in Alexandria, Virginia

Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries due to the vulnerability of those on foot when involved in collisions with motor vehicles. If you’ve been a victim of a pedestrian accident in Alexandria, Virginia, securing the right legal counsel is imperative to protect your rights and pursue rightful compensation. Frogale Law is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need during these difficult times.

Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately prevalent, especially in urban areas like Alexandria. Collisions involving pedestrians and vehicles can lead to catastrophic injuries and even fatalities due to the lack of protection for individuals on foot.

Alexandria, Virginia, has specific laws and regulations governing pedestrian accidents. Understanding these statutes is vital in navigating the legal process after such an incident. Seeking professional legal guidance becomes essential to ensure your rights are protected and to pursue just compensation for the injuries and suffering you’ve endured.

The first step to determine if you have a pedestrian injury case is to familiarize yourself with Virginia law. You need to know who had the right-of-way.

  • Virginia Code § 46.2-923 states that pedestrians shall cross, wherever possible, only at intersections or marked crosswalks.
  • Virginia Code § 46.2-924 states that the driver of any vehicle on a highway shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian crossing such highway by stopping and remaining stopped until such pedestrian has passed the lane in which the vehicle is stopped:
    • At any clearly marked crosswalk, whether at midblock or at the end of any block
    • At any regular pedestrian crossing included in the prolongation of the lateral boundary lines of the adjacent sidewalk at the end of a block; or
    • At any intersection when the driver is approaching on a highway where the speed limit is not more than 35 miles per hour.
  • Virginia pedestrian law also states that:
    • No pedestrian shall enter or cross an intersection in disregard of approaching traffic.
    • The drivers of vehicles entering, crossing, or turning at intersections shall change their course, slow down, or stop if necessary to permit pedestrians to cross such intersections safely and expeditiously.
    • Pedestrians crossing highways at intersections shall at all times have the right-of-way over vehicles making turns into the highways being crossed by the pedestrians.

The Virginia Supreme Court has said that the duty of a motor vehicle driver on approaching an intersection is to keep a vigilant lookout for pedestrians between curbs on the traveled portion of the highway, and when pedestrians are negotiating the crossing or about to step from the side into traffic lanes, to operate his car at such speed and under such control that he can readily turn one way or the other, and, if necessary, bring his machine to a stop in time to avoid injury to pedestrians. Sawyer v. Blankenship, 160 Va. 651, 658 (1933).

Also, at intersecting streets where there are neither traffic lights nor traffic officers, the pedestrian has a superior right – that is, the right to cross from one side of the street to the other in preference or priority over vehicles – and drivers of vehicles must respect this right and yield the right of way to the pedestrian. The pedestrian’s right of way extends from one side of the street to the other. It does not begin at any particular point in the intersection nor does it end at any particular point. It begins on one side of the street and extends until the pedestrian has negotiated the crossing. Lucas v. Craft, 161 Va. 228, 235 (1933).

How Frogale Law Can Assist You

Frogale Law specializes in handling personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents. Our legal team is equipped to provide expert guidance and support throughout your legal journey. Here’s how we can help:

  • In-Depth Legal Expertise: Our team possesses an extensive understanding of Virginia’s laws concerning pedestrian accidents. We offer comprehensive legal guidance to ensure your rights are upheld throughout the legal proceedings.
  • Thorough Case Evaluation: We conduct a meticulous examination of the circumstances surrounding the accident, collecting evidence and witness statements to construct a strong case on your behalf.
  • Communication and Negotiation: We manage all communications with insurance companies and involved parties, advocating for your rights and striving for fair compensation through negotiation or litigation if necessary.
  • Medical and Emotional Support: Collaborating with medical experts, we evaluate the extent of your injuries to ensure that all medical expenses and future care needs are considered in your claim. Additionally, we provide emotional support during this challenging period.

Common Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can lead to a range of injuries due to the vulnerability of individuals involved. These injuries might include:

  • Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can cause severe fractures, often requiring extensive medical treatment.
  • Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can result from the impact, causing long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Such injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term disabilities, significantly affecting the quality of life.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can cause long-term pain and limited mobility.

Why Choose Frogale Law?

  • Extensive Experience: Our legal team holds significant experience in handling pedestrian accident cases, successfully representing numerous clients and securing favorable outcomes.
  • Client-Centric Approach: We prioritize the unique needs of each client, offering tailored legal strategies and personalized attention.
  • Proven Track Record: Our history of successful case outcomes and satisfied clients reflects our commitment to achieving the best results for those we represent.
  • Local Insight: Being based in Alexandria, Virginia, we possess a deep understanding of local laws and their application in pedestrian accident cases.

Contact Frogale Law Today

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Alexandria, Virginia, don’t face the legal complexities alone. Contact Frogale Law for a free consultation and allow our dedicated team to assist you in seeking the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve. Your well-being is our priority.