Rhode Island Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Helping Those Injured By Careless Drivers

What Are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Rhode Island?

Pedestrian accidents occur when vehicles strike individuals walking, jogging, crossing streets, or using sidewalks and crosswalks. These accidents result from various factors including driver negligence, poor road conditions, inadequate lighting, and failure to follow traffic laws. Understanding the common causes of Rhode Island pedestrian accidents helps establish liability and build strong compensation claims.

Driver-Related Causes

The majority of pedestrian accidents stem from driver behavior and negligence:

• Distracted driving: Texting, phone calls, eating, or adjusting vehicle controls while driving
• Impaired driving: Operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases impact severity
• Failure to yield: Not stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks or at intersections
• Running red lights or stop signs: Ignoring traffic control devices
• Aggressive driving: Road rage, tailgating, or reckless maneuvering
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving that impairs judgment and reaction times

Environmental and Infrastructure Factors

Poor road design and maintenance can contribute to pedestrian accidents:

• Inadequate lighting in crosswalks and intersections
• Missing or poorly marked crosswalks
• Lack of pedestrian signals or crossing infrastructure
• Poorly maintained sidewalks forcing pedestrians into roadways
• Construction zones without proper pedestrian accommodation
• Weather conditions affecting visibility

How Serious Are Pedestrian Accident Injuries?

Pedestrian accidents typically result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection when struck by vehicles. Even minor collisions can cause life-changing harm because pedestrians have no barrier between their bodies and the striking vehicle.

Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries are extremely common in pedestrian accidents, occurring when victims strike the ground, vehicle hood, or windshield. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring lifelong care and rehabilitation.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact force often causes multiple fractures, including:

• Leg and ankle fractures from initial vehicle contact
• Arm and wrist breaks from attempting to break falls
• Rib fractures that can puncture organs
• Pelvic fractures requiring surgical repair

Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and neck injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord damage may cause permanent disability, requiring extensive medical care, adaptive equipment, and home modifications.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs including the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening without prompt medical treatment.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Severe cuts, bruises, and road rash can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement. These injuries may require plastic surgery and ongoing medical treatment.

Long-Term Consequences

Many pedestrian accident victims face permanent disabilities that affect their ability to work, care for themselves, and enjoy life. Recovery may require:

• Extended hospitalization and rehabilitation
• Physical and occupational therapy
• Assistive devices like wheelchairs or prosthetics
• Home and vehicle modifications for accessibility
• Ongoing medical care and medications

What Compensation Can Pedestrian Accident Victims Recover in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island law allows pedestrian accident victims to seek comprehensive compensation for their injuries and losses. The amount depends on the severity of injuries, impact on daily life, and degree of fault by the responsible parties.

Economic Damages

These cover measurable financial losses:

• Medical expenses: Emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care
• Lost wages: Income lost during recovery and reduced earning capacity due to permanent disabilities
• Property damage: Damaged personal belongings, assistive equipment, or prosthetics
• Home and vehicle modifications: Accessibility improvements for disabled victims
• Long-term care costs: Nursing care, assisted living, or in-home assistance

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for intangible losses:

• Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities
• Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, and trauma following the accident
• Loss of consortium: Impact on relationships with spouses and family members
• Disfigurement and scarring: Permanent changes to physical appearance

Punitive Damages

In pedestrian accident cases involving particularly reckless behavior like drunk driving or hit-and-run accidents, Rhode Island courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Pedestrian Accidents in Rhode Island?

Liability in pedestrian accidents extends beyond just the driver who struck the victim. Multiple parties may share responsibility depending on the circumstances.

Vehicle Drivers

Most pedestrian accidents result from driver negligence, making them the primary liable party. This includes personal vehicle drivers, commercial drivers, and rideshare operators.

Vehicle Owners

When drivers operate vehicles they don't own, vehicle owners may share liability, especially if they knew the driver was impaired, unlicensed, or had a history of reckless driving.

Employers

Companies can be held liable when employees cause pedestrian accidents while working. This applies to delivery drivers, taxi services, trucking companies, and other commercial operations.

Government Entities

Cities, counties, and state agencies may bear responsibility for accidents caused by:

• Poorly designed intersections or crosswalks
• Malfunctioning traffic signals
• Inadequate street lighting
• Failure to maintain safe pedestrian infrastructure

Property Owners

Private property owners may be liable when pedestrian accidents occur on their premises due to poor lighting, blocked sightlines, or inadequate safety measures.

How Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum Investigates Pedestrian Accident Cases

Immediate Scene Investigation

We begin by thoroughly examining the accident scene, documenting road conditions, traffic control devices, lighting, and any factors that contributed to the collision. Time-sensitive evidence like skid marks, vehicle debris, and surveillance footage must be preserved quickly.

Witness Interview Process

Our investigators locate and interview witnesses who saw the accident occur. Witness testimony can be crucial in establishing how the accident happened and who was at fault.

Expert Consultation

We work with accident reconstruction experts who can analyze physical evidence, vehicle damage, and injury patterns to determine vehicle speed, impact forces, and sequence of events.

Medical Record Analysis

Our team reviews all medical records, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans to fully understand the extent of injuries and their long-term impact on the victim's life.

Traffic and Surveillance Evidence

We obtain traffic camera footage, nearby security camera recordings, and any available dashcam or phone videos that captured the accident.

Why Pedestrian Accident Cases Require Specialized Legal Expertise

Complex Liability Issues

Pedestrian accidents often involve multiple contributing factors and potential defendants. Determining fault requires thorough investigation and understanding of traffic laws, premises liability, and government responsibility.

Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies frequently attempt to blame pedestrians for accidents, claiming they were jaywalking, distracted, or otherwise at fault. Our attorneys counter these tactics with evidence and expert testimony.

Severe Injury Valuation

The catastrophic nature of pedestrian injuries requires accurate assessment of lifetime medical needs, lost earning capacity, and quality of life impacts. Undervaluing these claims can leave victims without adequate resources for their care.

Statute of Limitations

Rhode Island's three-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases requires prompt legal action. However, certain circumstances may affect these deadlines, making early consultation essential.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Rhode Island

Immediate Steps

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor
2. Call police to document the accident officially
3. Gather information from the driver including insurance details
4. Document the scene with photos if physically able
5. Identify witnesses and obtain their contact information
6. Avoid admitting fault or making statements about the accident

Follow-Up Actions

• Keep detailed records of all medical treatment and expenses
• Document how injuries affect daily activities and work
• Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies without legal representation
• Contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible

Why Choose Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

Proven Results

We have successfully represented numerous pedestrian accident victims, securing substantial settlements and verdicts that provide for their long-term needs and hold negligent parties accountable.

No Upfront Costs

Our contingency fee structure means you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for your case. This ensures access to quality legal representation regardless of your financial situation.

Comprehensive Case Development

We leave no stone unturned in building your case, working with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, economists, and other professionals to present the strongest possible claim.

Local Knowledge

As Rhode Island attorneys, we understand state traffic laws, local court procedures, and the strategies used by area insurance companies and defense attorneys.

Personalized Attention

We recognize that every pedestrian accident case is unique. Our attorneys take time to understand how your injuries have affected your life and work to secure compensation that addresses your specific needs.

Contact Kirshenbaum & Kirshenbaum today for a free consultation about your pedestrian accident case. We're ready to fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on your recovery.