Columbia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Being hit by a vehicle is a terrifying experience. When you are walking, jogging, or crossing the street, you have no protection against a heavy car or truck. The injuries from these accidents are often severe and can change your life in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured, you need a dedicated Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer on your side.

At The Super Lawyer, we understand the physical pain and financial stress you are facing. You may be dealing with mounting medical bills, time off work, and aggressive insurance adjusters trying to pay you as little as possible. We are here to protect your rights. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.

Why You Need a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Many people assume that if a pedestrian is hit, the driver is automatically at fault. Unfortunately, insurance companies do not see it that way. They often try to blame the pedestrian to avoid paying a fair settlement. They might argue you were not in a crosswalk, were looking at your phone, or darted into traffic.

You need a lawyer who specializes in these specific types of cases—not just a general attorney. We know how to investigate the crash, prove the driver’s negligence, and establish that they breached their duty of care to keep you safe. We act as your shield against insurance tactics and fight to get you the full compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Columbia

Pedestrian accidents often happen because drivers are not paying attention to their surroundings. In a busy city like Columbia, a split second of distraction can lead to tragedy. We handle cases involving all types of driver negligence, including:

• Distracted driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or eating while behind the wheel.
• Speeding: Drivers going too fast to stop in time when a pedestrian steps out.
• Failure to yield: Drivers turning into crosswalks without looking for people walking.
• Drunk driving: Impaired motorists who cannot react quickly to traffic conditions.
• Poor visibility: Accidents happening at night or in poorly lit intersections.
• Crosswalk violations: Drivers ignoring traffic signals or stop signs.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Unlike vehicle occupants who have airbags and seatbelts, pedestrians are completely vulnerable. Even a low-speed impact can cause catastrophic damage. We help clients who have suffered serious injuries, including:

• Head and brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions.
• Broken bones: Fractures in the legs, arms, hips, and ribs.
• Spinal cord injuries: Damage that can lead to partial or total paralysis.
• Soft tissue damage: Severe bruising, torn ligaments, and muscle damage.
• Wrongful death: Tragically, some pedestrian accidents are fatal. We help grieving families file a wrongful death claim to seek justice for their loss.

Who May Be Liable for Your Accident?

Determining liability is a critical part of your case. While the driver who hit you is usually the primary defendant, other parties might also be responsible. We conduct a thorough accident investigation to identify all liable parties, which may include:

• The at-fault driver: The person operating the vehicle that struck you.
• Commercial employers: If the driver was working at the time (like a delivery truck driver), their employer might be liable.
• Government entities: If a dangerous road design, broken traffic light, or missing crosswalk sign caused the crash, the local government could be responsible.

Compensation You Can Recover

The goal of a personal injury claim is to make you “whole” again financially. We calculate your damages carefully to ensure you are covered for today and the future. You may be entitled to compensation for:

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• Medical bills: Emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and medication.
• Future medical care: Physical therapy, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
• Lost wages: Income you lost while you were unable to work.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your old job.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If you can no longer participate in hobbies or activities you loved.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Columbia

The steps you take immediately after a crash can impact your ability to win your case. If you are physically able, try to follow this checklist:

1. Seek medical care immediately: Even if you feel okay, you may have internal injuries. See a doctor right away.
2. Call the police: Ask for a police accident report. This is a key piece of evidence.
3. Collect evidence: Take photos of the scene, the vehicle, and your injuries. Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
4. Do not admit fault: Say as little as possible to the driver. Do not say “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you.”
5. Avoid insurance statements: Do not give a recorded statement to the driver’s insurance company until you speak to a lawyer.
6. Contact a lawyer: Call a Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

How Our Columbia Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Help

Handling a legal claim while you are in pain is overwhelming. When you hire us, we handle the entire legal process for you. Here is how we help:

Investigation and Evidence Collection

We gather the proof needed to build a strong case. This includes pulling police reports, analyzing medical records, securing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to prove exactly how the crash happened.

Handling Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters are trained to pay out as little as possible. We handle all communication with them. We know their tactics and will not let them pressure you into a lowball settlement.

Negotiation and Litigation

We send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining your injuries and financial losses. We fight for a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to be fair, we are prepared to file a civil lawsuit and represent you in court.

Understanding Insurance and Local Laws

Pedestrian accidents involve complex insurance issues. We look for all available coverage, including the at-fault driver’s liability policy. If the driver does not have enough insurance, or if it was a hit-and-run, we can help you file a claim under your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

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We also navigate Columbia and state-specific laws. This includes comparative negligence rules. Even if you were partially at fault (for example, crossing outside a crosswalk), you may still be able to recover compensation, though your award might be reduced. We also ensure your claim is filed before the statute of limitations expires. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering anything, so acting quickly is essential.