Pedestrian accidents can lead to severe injuries or fatalities, profoundly impacting victims and their families. At Kline & Specter, PC, we advocate for those affected by such incidents.
Our team of experienced attorneys, including five doctor-lawyers, brings a unique view to personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents and pedestrian accidents. We have secured substantial outcomes for our clients and are here to provide the legal support you need.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Pedestrian safety is a serious issue in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
- In 2022, over 8,000 pedestrians were killed in traffic-related accidents.
- Another 140,000 pedestrians were injured in accidents.
- The elderly account for a significant portion (over 20%) of pedestrian accident injuries and deaths.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Philadelphia
Pedestrian accidents in Philadelphia often occur due to driver negligence, hazardous road conditions, or pedestrian missteps. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers often fail to notice pedestrians while using their phones or adjusting in-car systems.
- Speeding: High speeds hinder reaction time and increase the severity of injuries.
- Failure to yield at crosswalks: This failure can lead to collisions, especially when drivers ignore traffic signals or stop signs.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs affect judgment and reaction time, putting pedestrians at serious risk.
- Poor visibility: Pedestrians may be harder to see at night or during bad weather.
- Poorly maintained sidewalks and intersections: These can create dangerous situations where pedestrians are forced into traffic.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, including:
- Head injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious, potentially causing long-term cognitive impairment.
- Broken bones: Breaks in the legs, arms, and ribs are common as pedestrians absorb the impact of the collision.
- Spinal cord injuries: These can occur if a pedestrian is thrown to the ground, sometimes leading to partial or complete paralysis.
- Internal injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding are not always immediately visible but can be life-threatening if untreated.
- Soft tissue injuries: Deep lacerations, bruises, and sprains can cause significant pain and long recovery times.
- Psychological trauma: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can impact a victim's quality of life.
Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
Liability in pedestrian accidents depends on the circumstances of the incident and who acted negligently.
Drivers
In most cases, drivers are held responsible if they speed, are distracted, or fail to yield at a crosswalk. For example, Pennsylvania law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks, and failing to do so can establish fault.
Municipalities
Municipalities may be liable if poor road design, missing traffic signals, or obstructed crosswalks contributed to the accident.
Pedestrian Accident Case Studies
Pedestrians should never feel doubly victimized after an accident. Kline & Specter's skilled pedestrian accident attorneys will fight to protect your rights and secure full financial compensation for your injuries.
Here are just a few major victories in pedestrian-related cases from our numerous verdicts and settlements.
Pedestrian Case Study No. 1
In August 2023, Shanin Specter and James Waldenberger obtained a $6.5 million settlement with Piazza Nissan of Ardmore, PA, for the family of an 89-year-old woman who was struck and killed as she was walking along the sidewalk by a company driver as his vehicle exited the dealership.
Pedestrian Accident Case Study No. 2
Specter achieved a $2.2 million settlement from the City of Philadelphia on behalf of the estates of a man and his infant son who were killed when they were run down on a city sidewalk by a speeding police car that went out of control. The settlement also resulted in a series of reforms intended to reduce the number of fatal accidents in the future.
Why Choose Kline & Specter?
Kline & Specter has earned a reputation for excellence in personal injury law. The Philadelphia Inquirer has recognized it as "one of the country's leading personal injury firms." The New York Times has called it "a powerhouse law firm," while the Philadelphia Business Journal has described it as "the most powerful plaintiffs' firm in the city."
The firm's legal team includes over 50 attorneys, 20 of whom have been recognized by Super Lawyers as "The Best Attorneys in Pennsylvania" or "Rising Stars." Founders Tom Kline and Shanin Specter have received the prestigious Michael A. Musmanno Award, highlighting their dedication to securing client justice.
Discuss Your Case Today
If you or someone you love suffered serious injury or death as the result of a pedestrian-related traffic accident, Kline & Specter's attorneys can help. Call 215-772-1000 to find out if you have a valid legal claim.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm works with local attorneys in each state as applicable.