Walking along Beale Street, strolling through Overton Park, or exploring the vibrant Cooper-Young district should be a pleasant experience. But in the blink of an eye, a careless driver can turn your peaceful walk into a nightmare. If you or a loved one has been struck and hurt by a motor vehicle, a Memphis pedestrian accident lawyer from Cory Watson Attorneys is available to discuss your case and legal options.
Our Memphis pedestrian accident lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take. With over 44 years of experience advocating for injury victims, we can assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Don't let the insurance companies push you around or minimize your suffering. Reach out to us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let's talk about your accident and explore your options for recovery.
Why Choose Cory Watson Attorneys for Your Memphis Pedestrian Accident Claim?
When dealing with injuries, medical bills, and lost income after an accident, the last thing you need is the added stress of navigating the legal system alone. That's where we come in. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we bring more than just legal experience to the table—we bring compassion, dedication, and a track record of success.
Our team has recovered over $4 Billion for injury victims across Alabama, Tennessee, and nationwide. But we're not just about big numbers—we're about making a real difference in people's lives. We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and craft a personalized strategy to get you the best possible outcome.
When you choose Cory Watson Attorneys, you're not just getting a lawyer—you're gaining a powerful ally who will fight tirelessly for your rights and well-being. We handle all the complex legal details, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court. This allows you to focus on what's most important: your recovery and your family.
Tennessee Laws Designed to Keep Pedestrians Safe
Tennessee has put several laws in place to protect pedestrians and promote safety on our streets. Understanding these laws can help you stay safe and know your rights if an accident does occur:
- Right-of-Way at Crosswalks: Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within a crosswalk, whether it's marked or unmarked. They must also yield to pedestrians when emerging from alleyways or driveways.
- Stop at School Crosswalks: Motorists must stop at marked crosswalks for pedestrians in school zones.
- Safe Speed: Motorists must operate their vehicles at a safe speed and maintain proper control.
- Duty of Care: Both drivers and pedestrians have a duty to exercise reasonable care to avoid accidents.
Remember, even if you follow all the rules, not everyone else does. If a driver's negligence led to your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation—and we're here to help you do just that.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Memphis?
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are all too common in Memphis and across the United States. While walking is a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around, it can also be dangerous when drivers fail to pay attention or follow traffic laws.
According to the latest statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Last year, 7,388 pedestrians were killed, and about 60,577 were injured in traffic crashes nationwide,
- Pedestrian accidents account for about 17% of all traffic deaths.
In Tennessee:
- The latest data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security reports there were 188 pedestrian fatalities in Tennessee last year.
Memphis-specific data:
- According to a MoneyGeek analysis of NHTSA data, Memphis is the most dangerous city for pedestrians, with an average of 8.9 deaths per 100,000 residents annually.
- Approximately 27% of all car accident fatalities in Memphis are pedestrian fatalities.
These statistics are more than just numbers—they represent real people, families torn apart, and lives forever changed. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we're committed to not only helping accident victims but also advocating for safer streets and stronger protections for pedestrians in Memphis and beyond.
Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company After a Memphis Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, you might be tempted to accept the first offer from the insurance company. They might even pressure you to do so, claiming it's the best they can do. But here's the truth: that first offer is almost always far less than what your case is actually worth.
Insurance companies are businesses whose primary goal is to protect their bottom line. They often use tactics to minimize payouts, such as:
- Offering quick, low settlements before you fully understand the extent of your injuries
- Downplaying the severity of your injuries or long-term impacts
- Trying to shift blame onto you, the pedestrian
This is why it's crucial to consult with an experienced Memphis pedestrian accident lawyer before accepting any offer or giving any recorded statements to the insurance company. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we can:
- Evaluate the true value of your claim, considering all current and future medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages
- Handle all communication with the insurance company, protecting you from their tactics
- Negotiate aggressively on your behalf to secure a fair settlement
- If necessary, take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve
Remember, once you accept a settlement, you typically can't go back and ask for more, even if you discover your injuries are more serious than you initially thought. Don't sell yourself short—let us help you get the full compensation you're entitled to under the law.
Who May Be Held Liable in a Memphis Pedestrian Accident?
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident isn't always straightforward. While the driver is often at fault, other parties may share responsibility. Potentially liable parties could include:
- The Driver: If they were speeding, distracted, under the influence, or otherwise negligent.
- The Vehicle Owner: If they knowingly let an unsafe or unqualified driver use their vehicle.
- The Driver's Employer: If the accident occurred while the driver was on the job.
- Government Entities: If poor road design or maintenance contributed to the accident.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle defect played a role in the accident.
- Property Owners: If poor maintenance of adjacent property created hazardous conditions.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we conduct thorough investigations to identify all potentially liable parties. This approach not only ensures that all responsible parties are held accountable but also maximizes the potential compensation for our clients.
What if I'm Partly to Blame for My Injuries?
It's a common worry—"What if the accident was partly my fault?" Maybe you stepped off the curb without looking or were crossing outside a designated crosswalk. The good news is that even if you were partly at fault, you may still be able to recover compensation under Tennessee law.
Tennessee follows a modified comparative negligence rule with a 50% bar. Here's what that means:
- Your percentage of fault can reduce your compensation.
- You cannot recover compensation if you're found to be 50% or more at fault.
Even if you think you might have been partly at fault, you shouldn't assume that's the case or admit fault to anyone. The determination of fault is a complex legal issue that requires a thorough investigation and analysis of all the facts.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we work hard to minimize any fault assigned to our clients and maximize their compensation. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
Compensation Available in a Memphis Pedestrian Accident Case
If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, known as "damages" in legal terms. These can include:
- Medical Expenses: This covers all accident-related medical costs, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages or Income: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for lost income. This also includes reduced earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies or activities you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Property Damage: This covers any personal property damaged in the accident, such as a cell phone or laptop.
- Disfigurement or Permanent Disability: If the accident left you with permanent scars or disabilities, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
In cases of wrongful death, where a pedestrian accident tragically results in loss of life, the family of the deceased may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- The deceased's pain and suffering before death
Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation you may be entitled to depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the available insurance coverage. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we work diligently to assess all your damages and fight for the maximum compensation possible in your case.
Memphis Pedestrian Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents, is generally one year from the date of the accident. However, there can be exceptions, so it's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
The driver's insurance company wants me to give a recorded statement. Should I?
It's best to avoid giving any statements to the insurance company before speaking with an attorney. These statements can often be used against you later.
What if I was hit by a car while walking on private property?
Pedestrian accidents don’t only happen on public roads. If you were hit by a car on private property, such as in a parking lot or driveway, you may still be entitled to compensation. Property owners and drivers must exercise caution in these areas. Our team at Cory Watson Attorneys can investigate the circumstances of your accident and determine who is liable for your injuries.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still have options. You might be able to file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage if you have it or pursue other avenues for compensation. An experienced attorney can help you explore all your options.
How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid attorney’s fees if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
Contact the Memphis Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys Today
When recovering from a pedestrian accident, the last thing you need is the added stress of dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures. That's where we come in. At Cory Watson Attorneys, our Memphis personal injury lawyers are more than just your legal representatives—we're your advocates, your support system, and your partners in seeking justice.
Here's how we can help:
- We offer free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explore your options.
- Our team conducts thorough investigations to build a strong case on your behalf.
- We handle all communication with insurance companies, protecting you from their tactics.
- Our experienced negotiators fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
- If necessary, we're prepared to take your case to trial to ensure justice is served.
Don't let the consequences of someone else's negligence define your future. Let us help you get the compensation you need to move forward. Contact Cory Watson Attorneys today at (901) 479-0227 or through our online form for your free consultation. Your recovery is our priority—let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.