Pedestrian Accident - Dettman Law

If a pedestrian is injured while walking in public or on private property, could the negligent party face a personal injury lawsuit filed by the injured pedestrian?

Yes, in Kentucky, if a pedestrian is injured due to the negligence of another party, whether while walking in public or on private property, the negligent party can indeed face a personal injury lawsuit filed by the injured pedestrian.

In general, everyone has a duty of care to act in a manner that doesn’t endanger others. If a party fails to meet this duty and a pedestrian gets injured as a result, the pedestrian can file a personal injury lawsuit against that party.

When it comes to private property, the owner or occupier has a duty to keep the property reasonably safe and warn of any known hazards. If a pedestrian is injured due to a hazardous condition on the property, such as a slip and fall on a wet floor or tripping over a poorly maintained sidewalk, they could potentially file a personal injury claim against the property owner or occupier.

However, the specifics of each case can vary, and it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand the best legal recourse in a particular situation. It’s also essential to note that Kentucky operates under a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that if the pedestrian is found to be partly at fault for the accident, any damages awarded will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

The process of establishing negligence and liability can be complex, involving the collection and analysis of evidence, potential negotiations with insurance companies, and possibly court proceedings. As such, it’s crucial to have experienced legal counsel when pursuing a personal injury claim in Kentucky.

It’s also important to note the statute of limitations – in Kentucky, the injured party generally has one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Introduction to Pedestrian Accidents

In the United States, pedestrian accidents contribute significantly to the number of personal injury cases. With Kentucky’s bustling streets and highways, pedestrian safety becomes paramount. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of pedestrian accident personal injury cases in Kentucky, the common types of these incidents, and the state-specific laws that govern them.

Deciphering Pedestrian Accident Personal Injury Cases

A pedestrian accident personal injury case arises when an individual is injured in an accident as a pedestrian. These accidents often involve motor vehicles but can also include bicycles, motorcycles, or other forms of transportation. The pedestrian must prove that another party’s negligence or intentional conduct resulted in their injuries to seek compensation.

Common Types of Pedestrian Accident Personal Injury Cases

Vehicle-Pedestrian Collisions: This is the most common type of pedestrian accident, often occurring at intersections or in crosswalks.
Bicycle-Pedestrian Collisions: Accidents involving a bicyclist hitting a pedestrian can also result in severe injuries.
Motorcycle-Pedestrian Collisions: Although less common, these accidents can be especially dangerous due to the speed and weight of motorcycles.
Commercial Vehicle Collisions: These involve commercial vehicles, such as buses or delivery trucks, hitting pedestrians.
Hit and Run Accidents: These accidents occur when a driver hits a pedestrian and then flees the scene.

Kentucky Laws Regarding Pedestrian Accidents

Kentucky has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians and assign responsibility in the event of an accident. Under Kentucky Revised Statute 189.570(6), drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within a crosswalk that is not controlled by a traffic control device.

Additionally, Kentucky is a “choice no-fault” state. This means that after an accident, an individual typically files a claim with their own insurance company, regardless of who was at fault. However, if a pedestrian’s medical bills exceed $1,000 or the pedestrian suffers a “serious injury,” they can step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident in Kentucky

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Not all injuries are immediately apparent, and a medical record can provide crucial evidence in your case.
Contact Law Enforcement: A police report will serve as an official record of the incident, which can be crucial in a personal injury claim.
Gather Information: Collect information from any witnesses, and if possible, take pictures of the scene.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: An attorney experienced in Kentucky’s pedestrian accident laws can help guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

Conclusion

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. Understanding the legal landscape of pedestrian accident personal injury cases in Kentucky can better equip you to navigate the aftermath and protect your rights.

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