Walking down the lively streets of Music City should be a pleasant experience, not a dangerous one. But unfortunately, pedestrian accidents in Nashville are all too common. Whether you're strolling through the Downtown area, enjoying scenic Centennial Park, or making your way through the busy intersections near Vanderbilt University, the risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident is always present.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you need a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer who understands the unique challenges you're facing. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we're here to help you through this difficult time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don't face this challenging situation alone. Contact our experienced Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers today for a free consultation. We're here to listen to your story and help you understand your legal options.
Why Choose Cory Watson Attorneys for Your Nashville Pedestrian Accident Claim?
When you're dealing with a pedestrian accident claim, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Cory Watson Attorneys, we bring over 38 years of experience to the table, along with a proven track record of success in personal injury cases.
Our team of dedicated Nashville pedestrian accident attorneys understands the unique challenges that come with these types of cases. We know that being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, often resulting in severe injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost income. That's why we approach each case with compassion, dedication, and a commitment to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach. We don't just see you as another case number–we see you as a person who needs help during a difficult time. We'll take the time to listen to your story, understand your specific needs, and develop a tailored legal strategy to meet those needs. With Cory Watson Attorneys on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.
Tennessee Laws Designed to Keep Pedestrians Safe
Tennessee has several laws in place aimed at protecting pedestrians and promoting road safety. Here are some key points:
- Right-of-Way at Crosswalks: In Tennessee, drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within a crosswalk, whether it's marked or unmarked. This means that if you're crossing the street at an intersection, vehicles should stop and allow you to cross safely.
- Pedestrian Signals: When pedestrian signals are present, you're required to follow them. The "Walk" signal indicates it's safe to cross, while the flashing "Don't Walk" signal means you shouldn't start crossing if you haven't already.
- Crossing Outside of Crosswalks: If you're crossing the street at any point other than a marked crosswalk or intersection, you must yield the right-of-way to all vehicles. However, this doesn't give drivers the right to disregard pedestrian safety.
- Sidewalk Use: When sidewalks are available, pedestrians are required to use them. If there's no sidewalk, you should walk on the left side of the road, facing oncoming traffic.
- Drivers' Responsibilities: Tennessee law requires drivers to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians. This includes giving warnings when necessary and exercising proper caution upon observing children or confused or incapacitated individuals on the roadway.
While these laws are designed to keep pedestrians safe, accidents can still happen. If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident, our Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys can help you understand how these laws apply to your case and fight for your rights.
How Common Are Pedestrian Accidents in Nashville?
Pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in Nashville and across the United States. Understanding the statistics can help illustrate the scope of this issue:
Nationwide Statistics:
- According to the latest numbers from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 7,388 pedestrians were killed, and about 60,577 were injured in traffic crashes nationwide last year.
- Pedestrian deaths accounted for 17% of all traffic fatalities last year.
Tennessee Statistics:
- According to the latest data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, 188 pedestrians were killed on Tennessee roadways last year.
- This represented an increase from previous years, despite overall traffic decreases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nashville-specific Statistics:
- According to the nonprofit Walk Bike Nashville, 32 people died in pedestrian accidents in Nashville.
- Sixty percent of all fatal pedestrian accidents in Nashville occurred on just 2% of roads.
These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved pedestrian safety measures in Nashville and across Tennessee. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it's crucial to seek legal representation to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Our Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys are here to help you navigate this challenging situation.
Should I Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company After a Nashville Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, you might be feeling overwhelmed, stressed about mounting medical bills, and eager to put the whole ordeal behind you. In this vulnerable state, you might be tempted to accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company. However, we strongly advise against this.
Here's why it's crucial to consult with a Nashville pedestrian accident lawyer before accepting any offer:
- Initial Offers Are Often Low: Insurance companies are businesses, and their primary goal is to minimize their payouts. The first offer is typically much lower than what your case may actually be worth.
- Full Extent of Injuries May Not Be Known: Some injuries, especially those affecting the head, neck, or back, may not fully manifest immediately after the accident. Accepting an early offer could leave you without compensation for future medical expenses related to your injury.
- Long-term Impacts Aren't Considered: The initial offer may not take into account long-term effects such as ongoing medical treatment, loss of earning capacity, or pain and suffering.
- You May Waive Your Rights: By accepting an offer, you typically waive your right to seek further compensation, even if you later discover your injuries are more severe than initially thought.
- Complex Legal Issues: Pedestrian accident cases can involve complex legal issues, including determining fault and navigating insurance policies. A lawyer can help you understand these complexities.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies. We know their tactics and how to negotiate for a fair settlement that truly reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Before you make any decisions about a settlement offer, reach out to our Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers for a free consultation. We can review the offer, assess the true value of your claim, and advise you on the best course of action. Remember, you don't have to face this alone —we're here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who May Be Held Liable in a Nashville Pedestrian Accident?
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident case can be complex, as multiple parties may bear responsibility. Here are some potential parties who could be held liable:
- Drivers: The most common liable party in pedestrian accidents is the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian. Drivers may be held responsible if they were speeding, driving while distracted, or disobeying traffic signals or signs.
- City or Government Entities: If poor road design or maintenance contributed to the accident, the city or relevant government agency might be held liable. This could include poorly designed intersections or malfunctioning traffic signals.
- Construction Companies: If the accident occurred in or near a construction zone, the construction company might be liable if they failed to provide adequate warnings or safe passage for pedestrians.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: In rare cases, if a vehicle malfunction (such as brake failure) contributed to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer could potentially be held liable.
- Property Owners: If poor maintenance of private property adjacent to a sidewalk or road contributed to the accident, the property owner might bear some responsibility.
Determining liability often requires a thorough investigation and understanding of traffic laws. That's where our experienced Nashville pedestrian accident lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys can help. We'll investigate every aspect of your accident to identify all potentially liable parties and work to hold them accountable.
What if I'm Partly to Blame for My Injuries?
It's a common concern among accident victims: "What if the accident was partly my fault?" In Nashville and throughout Tennessee, the law recognizes that accidents are often complex events where multiple parties may share some degree of responsibility. This is addressed through Tennessee's modified comparative negligence rule.
Tennessee follows a 50% bar rule for modified comparative negligence. Here's what this means for your case:
- You can recover damages as long as you're less than 50% at fault for the accident.
- Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you're found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
Even if you think you might have been partly at fault, you shouldn't let this stop you from seeking legal help. The determination of fault is a complex process that takes into account many factors, and it's not always as clear-cut as it might seem at first.
Compensation Available in a Nashville Pedestrian Accident Case
If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident in Nashville, you may be entitled to various types of compensation. The goal of this compensation is to make you "whole" again—to restore you, as much as possible, to the position you were in before the accident. Here are the main types of compensation that may be available:
- Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and any necessary medical devices or treatments.
- Lost Wages or Income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for lost income during your recovery period.
- Pain and Suffering: Pedestrian accidents can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress, both of which are compensable.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
- Wrongful Death: If a pedestrian accident results in the death of a loved one, the surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we understand that no amount of money can truly make up for the pain and suffering you've endured, but fair compensation can help ease the financial burden and provide some measure of justice.
We'll work diligently to document all your losses, consult with medical and economic experts when necessary, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. Don't settle for less than you're entitled to – contact our team today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your options for seeking compensation.
Nashville Pedestrian Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Nashville?
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including pedestrian accidents, is generally one year from the date of the accident. However, it's best to start the process as soon as possible while evidence is fresh and witnesses' memories are clear.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If you're hit by an uninsured driver, you may still have options. If you have it, you might be able to file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can help you explore all possible sources of compensation.
Can I still recover damages if I wasn't in a crosswalk when the accident occurred?
Possibly. While crossing outside a crosswalk may impact your case, it doesn't automatically disqualify you from recovering damages. Tennessee's modified comparative negligence law means you can still recover damages as long as you're less than 50% at fault for the accident.
What if I was hit by a government vehicle?
Claims against government entities have special rules and shorter deadlines. It's crucial to contact an attorney quickly in these cases to ensure your rights are protected.
Contact the Nashville Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Cory Watson Attorneys Today
When recovering from a pedestrian accident, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a dedicated ally who understands what you're going through and knows how to fight for your rights. That's exactly what you'll find at Cory Watson Attorneys.
We've been standing up for injury victims in Nashville and across Tennessee for over 38 years. We know the challenges you're facing, and we're here to help you overcome them. Our team of experienced Nashville personal injury lawyers are ready to put our knowledge, resources, and passion for justice to work for you.
Here's how Cory Watson Attorneys can help:
- We'll conduct a thorough investigation of your accident to build a strong case
- We'll handle all communications with insurance companies, protecting you from their tactics
- We'll calculate the full extent of your damages, including future needs, to help ensure you're fully compensated
- We'll negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and we're not afraid to take your case to court if necessary
- We'll guide you through every step of the legal process, answering your questions and addressing your concerns along the way
Don't let another day go by wondering about your rights or worrying about your future. Take the first step towards justice and recovery - contact Cory Watson Attorneys today at (615) 813-2149 or through our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Your recovery is our priority. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on healing.