Drivers must remain attentive to their surroundings to avoid collisions with other vehicles and, perhaps more importantly, with people walking or riding along the streets. While the metal frames of their own cars protect drivers, pedestrians and cyclists have no such protection, leaving them more vulnerable to severe injuries. There are safety precautions for Houston pedestrians that can reduce the risk of accidents, but accidents can still happen if drivers are careless.
If an inattentive driver has hit you, you may be able to recover financial compensation for your injuries. An experienced attorney from Mostyn Law can help you navigate the legal process of your claim and represent your interests.
While it is the driver’s responsibility to avoid collisions, pedestrians can take steps to keep themselves safe while walking in Houston. These could include:
A good practice is to never assume the driver can see you or will stop in time.
Some laws and rules apply to pedestrians in Houston and are intended to keep them protected. For example, under Texas Transportation Code § 552.006, all pedestrians must walk on the sidewalk if there is one along the stretch of roadway. Similarly, Tex. Trans. Code § 552.0035(b) prohibits suddenly leaving the safety of the sidewalk into the path of an oncoming vehicle. In addition to sidewalks, the city of Houston has a network of tunnels and bridges designed to keep pedestrians off the streets and out of danger from moving cars.
Unfortunately, car accidents involving walkers can still occur in Houston, even with the rules, pathways, and other safety measures, when drivers choose not to follow them. Just as pedestrians have rules of the road, so do motorists. Specifically, Tex. Trans. Code § 552.008 requires all drivers to exercise due care. A court could consider failing to do so negligence on the driver’s part.
Negligence usually indicates who is at fault for the crash, and the driver could be held liable to the victims. Their insurance must cover the expenses arising from their injuries. This could include medical costs, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
However, the state has a comparative negligence law that could affect the outcome of a claim. If the victim shares some responsibility, the court will reduce the claim by their percentage of fault. If they are found to be 50% or more responsible, they receive nothing.
Our experienced team at Mostyn Law focuses on the driver’s actions. We help injured victims recover the full compensation they need to care for themselves and their families.
Understanding the safety precautions for Houston pedestrians can help you avoid serious accidents. However, if you have been hit by a car, you should talk to a compassionate lawyer at Mostyn Law.
Our firm has helped injured victims like you seek justice for over 20 years, and we are here to support you through this difficult time. Contact our team to schedule a free case consultation.
(832) 844-5116 