Compassionate Legal Support for Pedestrian Accident Victims in Omaha
Did you know that the most dangerous place to be in a car accident is not necessarily inside one of the cars? Pedestrians are injured in car accidents at a higher rate today than ever before. While many factors may contribute to this increase, pedestrian accidents are a significant issue that can lead to life-changing injuries. If you have been injured as a pedestrian, you should not hesitate to call a pedestrian accident attorney in Omaha, NE as soon as possible to begin reviewing your options. You could be eligible to receive substantial compensation.
Seeking help from an Omaha pedestrian accident attorney can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case and your peace of mind throughout recovery. Our team at Burnett Legal Group understands the trauma these incidents cause for individuals and families, especially because serious injuries may result in long-term consequences. In Omaha, busy intersections like Dodge Street, 72nd Street, and West Maple Road see frequent pedestrian traffic, which unfortunately brings a higher risk of accidents.
For more information about your rights as a pedestrian in an auto accident, call the Omaha pedestrian accident attorneys at Burnett Legal Group today at (402) 810-8611 to schedule a case evaluation.
How Our Process Supports You After a Pedestrian Accident
Understanding how your claim will be processed when you contact us can reduce anxiety and empower you as you pursue recovery. At Burnett Legal Group, our pedestrian accident team begins by carefully listening to your experience, answering your immediate questions, and outlining the legal options available for your unique situation. We recognize that clients may be managing medical appointments at Omaha facilities like CHI Health or Nebraska Medicine, dealing with insurance requirements, or adapting daily routines after their accident. Our legal process aims to reduce confusion and maintain clear communication at all times.
Once we start your case, we gather evidence, request relevant records, and, when necessary, connect with a skilled medical and accident investigators who understand Omaha’s roads and intersections. We thoroughly document how the injury impacts your health, word, and personal life to help build a strong, well-supported claim.
What Are Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Despite safety features like elevated sidewalks, dedicated crosswalks, and pedestrian-specific walkways, the number of pedestrians injured or killed in car accidents continues to rise. In 2013 alone, more than 4,700 people were killed and 66,000 were injured. That means one person was killed just over every two hours.
In Omaha and across Nebraska, pedestrian accidents frequently occur at intersections where drivers may fail to yield or are distracted by phones and other devices. Local weather, such as icy roads in winter and heavy spring rainfall, can also reduce visibility and increase stopping distances for vehicles. When drivers are not fully attentive, especially in busy areas like the Old Market, Aksarben Village, and near school zones, pedestrians face even higher risks. The Nebraska Department of Transportation has reported an increase in incidents involving failure to yield at crosswalks, highlighting the need for added vigilance from everyone.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Distracted drivers - Drivers using mobile phones, adjusting navigation, or otherwise failing to pay attention.
Jaywalking or crossing unsafely - Pedestrians not using designated crosswalks or crossing against signals.
Speeding - Excess speed reduces reaction time for both drivers and pedestrians.
Loss of vehicle control - Weather conditions, mechanical failure, or sudden maneuvers.
Poor visibility of a pedestrian - Dim lighting, bad weather, or dark or unreflective clothing at night.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, they may sustain any of the following types of injuries:
Common injury zones in pedestrian accidents include:
Lower body injuries - This includes legs, feet, ankles, hips, and related areas. The most frequent injuries include broken bones, torn muscles or ligaments, fractures, and lacerations.
Neck, face, or head injuries - These injuries can occur if the pedestrian's head strikes a car hood or windshield. They may include spinal injuries, brain injuries, fractures, lacerations, and concussions.
Upper body injuries - This is the least common area for injury but still occurs in a large percentage of pedestrian accidents. It includes injuries to the arms, chest, abdomen, and wrists. Common upper body injuries include breaks, internal bleeding, lacerations, and torn muscles or ligaments.
Omaha pedestrian accident cases are influenced by a mix of state and local laws, and understanding these rules can have a significant impact on your claim. Nebraska law outlines specific rules for crosswalks, right-of-way, and the responsibilities of both drivers and pedestrians. It also instructs pedestrians not to suddenly leave a curb or safe place and move into the path of a moving vehicle.
Determining fault in local pedestrian accident cases often means reviewing both traffic laws and rulings from Douglas County District Court. Factors such as driver distraction, road conditions at the accident site, and the presence of proper signage all play important roles. Additionally, Nebraska uses a modified comparative fault rule. In this environment, having a knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer Omaha by your side brings helpful insight, whether gathering evidence or negotiating a settlement.
Choose a Dedicated Pedestrian Accident Law Firm
At Burnett Legal Group, we have many years of experience helping victims of pedestrian accidents seek financial relief for their injuries. Attorney Joe Risko has more than 50 years of legal practice experience that he can apply to your case. We believe that everyone deserves justice when they have been injured, but unfortunately, justice is rarely guaranteed and often must be pursued actively. Our attorneys are trustworthy allies in and out of the courtroom and can help you seek a positive case outcome after your injury.
What Damages Can You Recover in a Pedestrian Accident?
Just like any other personal injury claim, if you are hit by a car as a pedestrian, you may be eligible to receive compensation for the following:
Economic Damages - This includes property that may have been damaged in the accident, medical bills, and lost income if you are unable to work right away.
Non-Economic Damages - This includes pain and suffering you experience as a result of your injuries.
Punitive Damages - These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer, especially if the driver was breaking the law at the time (for example, speeding or driving drunk).
The full value of your claim can be difficult to assess without experienced legal guidance, especially because many factors such as the degree of negligence or the long-term effects of your injuries can influence the compensation you may receive. In Omaha, working with a pedestrian accident attorney Omaha ensures you consider every possible loss, including future rehabilitation, lost earning potential, home modifications, and even transportation costs related to your recovery. Our attorneys frequently collaborate with local medical professionals, financial planners, and other specialists to build detailed and well-supported claims. We recommend that anyone injured in a pedestrian accident consult qualified legal support early on to avoid insurance company tactics that might minimize your claim's value.
Suing for Fatal Pedestrian Accidents
Sadly, many pedestrians do not survive being hit by a vehicle. If you have lost a loved one because of a driver’s negligence, you still have options for pursuing justice. While no lawsuit can bring your loved one back, we work to hold the at-fault party accountable and seek to correct that wrong as much as possible. Our lawyers are here to advocate for your rights and can help your family pursue compensation for the following:
Funeral or burial costs
Pain and suffering your loved one experienced before death
Lost financial support your loved one would have provided to your family
Medical costs incurred before their death
You don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. We encourage you to contact our pedestrian death attorneys in Omaha for the compassionate representation you deserve.
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents
Preventing a pedestrian accident requires effort from both drivers and pedestrians to keep the roads safe. For drivers, always remain alert for pedestrians, especially in slower areas with many parked cars along the road. Remain extra cautious around crosswalks and intersections. It is important to follow the speed limit and pay close attention to the sides of the road, particularly in neighborhoods or school zones.
For pedestrians, always cross at a designated crosswalk or in a well-lit area if a crosswalk is not available. Avoid stepping into the street from between parked cars or in places where a driver cannot see you. Pay attention, avoid distractions from electronic devices, and make sure any approaching vehicles see you and come to a stop before crossing. Make eye contact with drivers whenever possible.
Commonly Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents:
What Should You Do If You Get Hit By a Car As a Pedestrian?
If you are ever struck by a car while in the crosswalk, parking lot, or another location, you should follow these steps to help your pedestrian accident lawsuit later:
Get medical attention immediately
Keep a record and take photos of any injuries
File a police report if a statement isn’t taken at the scene
Do not discuss fault with the driver or their insurance at the scene; wait until you have talked to a lawyer
Contact your insurance company to notify them of your accident; use care in what you share with them
Talk with a professional pedestrian injury lawyer to keep your case on the right track
Is a Driver Always At Fault When Hitting a Pedestrian?
While all drivers have a responsibility to avoid hitting pedestrians, that does not mean they are always held liable for an accident. For example, if a driver is being careful and following the law, but a pedestrian suddenly moves directly in front of the car, the driver may not be able to stop in time. In such cases, the pedestrian may be considered at fault.
Similarly, if a pedestrian steps into the street unexpectedly and causes a driver to make sudden moves that result in damages, the pedestrian may also be held accountable for those damages. If you are not sure who is at fault for your injuries, you should reach out to our pedestrian injury lawyers to discuss your accident.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents?
2019 data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows there were over 6,200 pedestrian deaths that year, making up 17% of all car crash fatalities.
Of these deaths, more than 1,200 (21%) involved a hit-and-run accident.
Overall, individuals age 70 or older are the most at risk for pedestrian accidents.
The IIHS also reported that in 2019, 42% of pedestrians over 16 killed at night had a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher.
82% of pedestrian deaths occurred in urban areas, as opposed to highways, interstates, or rural locations.
Seek dedicated legal counsel for your injury claims; contactBurnett Legal Group today to speak with our pedestrian accident lawyers in Omaha!
