Waterbury Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Every day, pedestrians in Waterbury trust that drivers will follow the rules and keep them safe. But when that trust is broken by a distracted, speeding, or reckless driver, the consequences can be painful and long-lasting.
When a driver’s negligence leaves you injured, you deserve experienced legal representation that fights for your full recovery. Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante has spent over 70 years helping accident victims in Waterbury secure the compensation they need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation and trust our Waterbury pedestrian accident lawyers to start building your case.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen in Waterbury?
Pedestrian accidents occur for countless reasons, but most share a common thread: driver negligence. Whether you were crossing at a marked crosswalk, walking along a sidewalk, or standing near a parked car, you had every right to expect drivers would exercise reasonable care. When they don’t, serious injuries follow.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Waterbury include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers texting, adjusting their GPS, or talking on the phone often fail to notice pedestrians in their path.
- Failure to yield: Many drivers ignore right-of-way laws at crosswalks, rolling through intersections without checking for people on foot.
- Speeding: Excess speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries when they strike a pedestrian.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and awareness. As a result, pedestrians become virtually invisible.
- Poor visibility conditions: Drivers who fail to adjust their driving for rain, fog, or darkness put pedestrians at risk, especially during early morning or evening hours.
- Aggressive driving: Drivers who run red lights, make illegal turns, or engage in road rage endanger everyone around them.
- Backing up without caution: Parking lots and driveways become hazards when drivers reverse without checking their surroundings.
Connecticut Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws
Under Connecticut law, drivers must yield to pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks that are not controlled by traffic signals or police officers. This requirement applies in several situations:
- When a pedestrian is within any portion of the crosswalk
- When a pedestrian steps to the curb and raises their hand toward oncoming traffic to signal their intent to cross
- When a pedestrian moves any part of their body—or an extension of their body, such as a wheelchair, cane, stroller, or leashed dog—into the crosswalk entrance
Drivers who fail to yield face a $500 fine. More importantly, they can be held financially responsible for any injuries their negligence causes. If you were hit while walking in Waterbury, you have the right to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
How a Waterbury Pedestrian Accident Attorney Can Maximize Your Recovery
After a pedestrian accident, you can face an uphill battle in recovering compensation. Insurance companies will try to minimize your claim, question the severity of your injuries, or even argue that you were partially at fault. You need an attorney who knows how to counter these tactics and build a robust case for your full recovery.
Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante brings decades of experience to pedestrian accident cases. We conduct thorough investigations to establish exactly how the accident occurred and who was responsible. We work with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries and project your future medical needs. Our firm handles all negotiations with insurance companies, pushing back against lowball settlement offers and fighting for compensation that truly reflects your losses.
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have fiercely defended the rights of injured pedestrians in courtrooms throughout Connecticut. We have the resources, knowledge, and legal acumen to craft compelling arguments that resonate with judges and juries. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and supported, answering your questions and advocating for your best interests every step of the way.
Common Injuries Suffered by Pedestrian Accident Victims in Bridgeport
When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the human body absorbs tremendous force. The resulting injuries are often severe and life-altering. Pedestrian accident victims commonly suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Torn ligaments
- Severe muscle damage
- Road rash
- Deep lacerations
- Amputations
- Nerve damage
- Crush injuries
- Facial injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Injuries
When a driver’s negligence causes your injuries, Connecticut law allows you to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover your tangible financial losses, such as:
- Medical expenses (including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation)
- Lost wages from the time you couldn’t work while recovering from your injuries or seeking medical care
- Reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job
- Property damage if your belongings were damaged in the accident
Non-economic damages address the intangible ways the accident has affected your life. Common examples include pain from your physical injuries, emotional distress and mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life when you can no longer participate in activities you once loved, and disfigurement or permanent scarring.
The compensation you receive should reflect the full impact of the accident on your life—not just today, but for years to come. Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante will fight to ensure every aspect of your damages is accounted for, from current medical bills to future care needs.
What to Do If You Were Hit by a Car in Waterbury
If you were injured in a Waterbury pedestrian accident, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, and prompt medical care creates documentation of your injuries.
- Call the police. A police report provides an official record of the accident and may include the officer’s assessment of fault.
- Gather evidence. If you can, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved. Collect contact information from witnesses as well.
- Contact an attorney. The sooner you have legal representation, the sooner someone can start protecting your rights and building your case.
Trust Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante to Fight for You
Walking should be one of the safest ways to get around, but distracted and careless drivers have made crosswalks and sidewalks dangerous. Lynch, Traub, Keefe & Errante has helped Waterbury pedestrians hold negligent drivers accountable when their carelessness resulted in serious harm. If you or someone you love was struck while walking, contact us at (203) 333-3333 for a free consultation and start building your case for compensation.