Scottsdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Are you struggling with the aftermath of a Scottsdale pedestrian accident? Facing unexpected medical bills while you’re too hurt to work can be overwhelming. You might wonder where to turn for help and how to get the money you need to recover. The good news is that help is just a phone call away.

The team at Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. stands up for pedestrians injured on Scottsdale’s roads. We understand the local laws and have a track record of successfully recovering fair compensation for people hurt like you. Clients refer to our attorneys as a “very calming influence and persistent advocate.” Take the first step toward putting your life back on track today. Contact us for an initial consultation, and let us put our 50 years of combined legal experience to work for you.

What Are Common Causes of Scottsdale Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents can occur due to a range of factors, from everyday driver distractions to critical errors in judgment like failure to yield. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Scottsdale, Arizona:

• Distracted driving – Many pedestrian accidents involve drivers distracted by activities such as using their phones, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving. Distractions can reduce a driver’s awareness of their environment and increase the risk of collisions with pedestrians.
• Failure to yield – Drivers who do not yield the right-of-way at crosswalks cause a significant number of pedestrian accidents. At intersections, drivers are more likely to overlook pedestrians as they focus on beating red lights or maneuvering through traffic.
• Speeding – Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for the conditions compromises a driver’s ability to stop in time once they see a pedestrian. The higher the speed, the more severe a collision can be.
• Poor road conditions – Roads that are poorly maintained or have inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. Issues like potholes, unmarked construction zones, and lack of proper pedestrian crossing signs or signals can create hazardous situations that increase crash risk.
• Vehicle defects – Defects in a vehicle, either from manufacturing flaws or poor maintenance, can lead to preventable accidents involving pedestrians. For example, faulty brakes or headlights can prevent a driver from stopping or seeing a pedestrian in time to avoid a collision.

What Injuries Happen Most Often in Pedestrian Accidents?

Traffic collisions between motor vehicles and people on foot often have devastating consequences. Pedestrians are our most vulnerable road users, and they can suffer injuries with long-term effects on health and quality of life. Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

• Fractures
• Dislocations
• Concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Severe cuts and bruises
• Road rash
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Crush injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Psychological trauma

What Are the Pedestrian Laws in Scottsdale?

Arizona pedestrian laws aim to enhance safety and minimize accidents between vehicles and pedestrians. Both drivers and pedestrians have responsibilities under these laws, which outline right-of-way rules, proper crossing points, and the expected precautions in everyday traffic scenarios:

• Right-of-way at crosswalks – Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing in crosswalks without operational traffic signals. If a pedestrian is on the same half of a roadway as a motorist or approaching closely from the other side, drivers must slow down or stop. Pedestrians must not step suddenly into traffic from a curb if they’re too close for drivers to yield. If a motorist stops at a crosswalk to let a pedestrian cross, drivers approaching from behind may not overtake the stopped vehicle.
• Crossing outside crosswalks – Pedestrians crossing a roadway anywhere other than a crosswalk must yield the right-of-way to vehicles. This rule also applies when a pedestrian tunnel or overhead crossing is available. When marked crosswalks are available at intersections with working traffic signals, pedestrians must use them.
• Driver responsibilities – Drivers must always exercise due care to avoid hitting pedestrians and sound their horns when necessary. All drivers should take extra care around children or pedestrians who appear confused or incapacitated.
• Pedestrian use of crosswalks – Pedestrians must use the right half of crosswalks when practical and move as quickly as possible when crossing the street.
• Pedestrian use of roadways – If they are available, pedestrians must use sidewalks instead of walking on the road. If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
• School crossings – Drivers must reduce their speed to no more than 15 miles per hour at school crossings where signs indicate that school is in session. They must also stop completely if a child or anyone else is in the crosswalk.

Can the Pedestrian Be At Fault for an Accident?

It is uncommon but possible for a pedestrian to be at fault for an accident in Scottsdale. Generally, vehicle drivers must yield to pedestrians, but there are scenarios where pedestrians might contribute to a collision. For example, a pedestrian could cross the street against a traffic signal or suddenly step in front of a motorist with the right of way.

Even if you are partially or mostly at fault for an accident as a pedestrian, you still have the right to seek compensation under Arizona’s pure comparative negligence rule. However, this rule also reduces your payout in proportion to your degree of fault. For example, if a court finds you 30 percent responsible for an accident, it will decrease your compensation award by 30 percent.

If another party tries to pin the blame on you, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can work to minimize your percentage of fault. Your attorney can gather evidence, counter unfair accusations, and negotiate assertively with insurance companies to maximize the compensation you receive.

What Can a Pedestrian Do to Keep Themselves Safe?

Walking along the busy streets of Scottsdale requires careful attention and precautions to ensure your safety as a pedestrian. Local roads are often busy with traffic, and while drivers are supposed to follow laws designed to protect pedestrians, it’s still best to take steps to protect yourself, such as:

• Using crosswalks – Always cross streets using marked crosswalks and intersections. Drivers expect pedestrians at these points, making them safer crossing locations.
• Obeying traffic signals – Follow pedestrian signals while crossing the street. Only start crossing when the signal says it is safe.
• Staying visible – Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night or in low-light conditions to ensure drivers can see you.
• Avoiding distractions – Keep your attention on the road and your surroundings. Avoid using your phone or wearing headphones while crossing streets.
• Looking both ways – Always check both directions for oncoming traffic before stepping onto the road, even if you have the right of way.
• Making eye contact – Try to make eye contact with drivers as they approach to ensure they see you and acknowledge your right to cross.
• Staying on sidewalks – Use sidewalks whenever they are available. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic on the left side of the road.

What Damages Can a Scottsdale Pedestrian Accident Victim Recover for Their Injuries?

If you got hurt in an accident as a pedestrian, you might be dealing with overwhelming physical pain and financial worries due to the costs of treating your injuries. Fortunately, the law allows you to seek money to cover the personal and economic losses you suffer due to the accident. For instance, you could pursue damages for:

• Medical expenses, including the costs of hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency room treatment, and any other medical bills directly resulting from the accident
• Future medical costs related to your injuries, such as the costs of ongoing medication, physical therapy, or surgeries
• Income you lose while unable to work due to your injuries
• Projected losses in your long-term earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to earn a living in the future
• The physical pain and emotional distress you endure due to the accident
• Decreases in your overall quality or enjoyment of life if your injuries prevent you from enjoying your usual activities

How Long Do You Have to File a Pedestrian Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?

Arizona law gives you two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against a responsible party. If you miss this deadline, you generally lose your chance to pursue compensation for your injuries. This strict filing window means swift action is essential.

Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible after the collision is the best way to protect your right to sue. An attorney can handle your pedestrian accident claim promptly and meet all relevant deadlines on your behalf. They will gather valuable evidence, prepare all the necessary paperwork, and file your lawsuit within the two-year period. Getting a lawyer involved early in your pedestrian accident case allows you to focus on your recovery while they handle all the legal details and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact a Scottsdale Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Are you recovering from a pedestrian accident in Scottsdale? The right support can make all the difference in your compensation claim. At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., we understand what you are going through and can provide the assistance you need. Contact us now for your initial consultation, and let a Scottsdale pedestrian accident attorney help you move forward with confidence.

Visit Our Scottsdale Pedestrian Accident Law Offices