Connecticut Lawyer for a Pedestrian Struck by a Car
Being struck by a car is one of the most devastating types of traffic accidents. Pedestrians have virtually no protection from the force of a moving vehicle, and even crashes at relatively low speeds can cause life-changing injuries. If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, speaking with an experienced Connecticut lawyer for a pedestrian struck by a car as soon as possible can help protect your legal rights and maximize your financial recovery.
Connecticut's Pedestrian Crosswalk Law
Connecticut strengthened its pedestrian safety laws on October 1, 2021, to better protect people crossing the street. Under current Connecticut law, drivers must slow down or stop for pedestrians in several situations, including when:
- The pedestrian is in any portion of a marked crosswalk.
- The pedestrian is standing at the entrance to a crosswalk and clearly indicates an intent to cross by raising a hand or arm toward oncoming traffic.
- The pedestrian demonstrates an intent to cross by extending any part of their body or an object into the crosswalk, including a wheelchair, stroller, cane, walking stick, bicycle being walked, or even a leashed dog.
These changes were enacted because pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries have continued to rise nationwide. Connecticut lawmakers recognized that stronger protections were necessary to reduce preventable tragedies and make drivers more accountable for failing to yield.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries
Unlike drivers and passengers inside a vehicle, pedestrians have no airbags, seatbelts, or protective frame. When a pedestrian is struck by a car, SUV, pickup truck, or commercial vehicle, the injuries are often severe and may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Pelvic injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and road rash
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
Many injured pedestrians require emergency surgery, hospitalization, extensive rehabilitation, and months or years away from work. Some victims never fully recover.
Who Is Responsible When a Pedestrian Is Hit by a Car?
Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers fail to exercise reasonable care. Common causes include:
- Failing to yield at a crosswalk
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Making unsafe left or right turns
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Backing up without checking for pedestrians
- Failing to see pedestrians at night or during poor weather
Even if the collision did not occur in a marked crosswalk, you may still have a valid injury claim. Every case depends on the specific facts, and Connecticut's comparative negligence laws may still allow an injured pedestrian to recover compensation even if they were partially at fault.
Compensation Available After a Connecticut Pedestrian Accident
If another driver's negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent impairment
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If a family member was killed in a pedestrian accident, surviving family members may also have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Why Hire James F. Aspell, P.C.?
At James F. Aspell, P.C., we have spent decades representing seriously injured people throughout Connecticut. We understand how insurance companies evaluate pedestrian accident claims, and we know what evidence is needed to prove liability and document the full extent of your damages.
Our firm can:
- Investigate the crash and preserve critical evidence.
- Obtain police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary.
- Coordinate your medical evidence.
- Negotiate aggressively with the insurance company.
- Prepare every case as though it will be tried in court.
Insurance companies often attempt to blame the pedestrian or minimize the severity of the injuries. We work to level the playing field and pursue the maximum compensation available under Connecticut law.
Speak With a Connecticut Lawyer for a Pedestrian Struck by a Car Today
If you or someone you love was struck by a vehicle in a crosswalk, on a sidewalk, in a parking lot, or anywhere else in Connecticut, do not wait to seek legal advice. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies often begin investigating immediately after the collision.
Contact James F. Aspell, P.C. today for a free consultation with an experienced Connecticut lawyer for a pedestrian struck by a car. We will answer your questions, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.
