If you or someone you love has been injured as a pedestrian, you deserve justice, compensation, and support. As your trusted Tulsa accident lawyer, we are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Understanding the Scope of Pedestrian Accidents in Tulsa
Pedestrian accidents are alarmingly common in Oklahoma, and Tulsa is no exception. Unfortunately, many pedestrian accidents are fatal due to the minimal protection victims have at the time of impact. Many of these tragic incidents are preventable, caused by driver negligence, speeding, or failure to yield.
Urban areas like Tulsa see disproportionate pedestrian accidents due to heavy traffic, bustling crosswalks, and distracted driving. Whether the accident occurred near downtown, in a school zone, or on a neighborhood street, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, with little to no protection from the force of an oncoming vehicle.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents happen for various reasons, but most can be traced back to negligence. As experienced pedestrian accident attorneys in Tulsa, we see recurring factors, including:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, eating, or engaging in other distractions often fail to notice pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur at crosswalks where drivers disregard pedestrian right-of-way laws.
- Speeding: Higher vehicle speeds increase the likelihood of an accident and the severity of injuries.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers are a leading cause of pedestrian fatalities.
- Poor Visibility: Low-light conditions, lack of proper signage, and obstructed views often contribute to accidents.
Our team investigates every detail of your case to pinpoint the cause and hold the responsible party accountable.
Oklahoma Laws Protecting Pedestrians
Oklahoma law provides clear protections for pedestrians, but not all drivers comply. Key regulations include:
- Right-of-Way at Crosswalks: Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 47 §11-502, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within any marked or unmarked crosswalk at an intersection.
- Prohibition of Passing Vehicles at Crosswalks: Drivers are prohibited from overtaking another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to allow pedestrians to cross.
- Duties of Pedestrians: While pedestrians generally have the right of way, they must also obey traffic signals and avoid darting into traffic outside crosswalks (Title 47 §11-503).
As your top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Tulsa, we will address the legal intricacies of your case so you can focus on healing.
Types of Injuries Pedestrians Suffer in Accidents
Pedestrian accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection compared to vehicle occupants. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Lacerations and abrasions
- Psychological trauma, such as PTSD
These injuries often lead to long recovery periods, substantial medical expenses, and a diminished quality of life. We work tirelessly to pursue maximum compensation for these damages on your behalf.
How We Prove Negligence in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Winning a pedestrian accident case requires demonstrating the driver’s negligence. At Doney Law, our skilled team gathers evidence to build a compelling case, including:
- Accident Reports: Police reports provide crucial details about the circumstances of the crash.
- Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can support your version of events.
- Traffic Camera Footage: Video evidence is often pivotal in proving fault.
- Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the scene and demonstrate how the collision occurred.
- Medical Records: Documenting the extent of your injuries is vital for calculating damages.
With our extensive experience as pedestrian accident attorneys in Tulsa, we know what it takes to present a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accidents often leave victims facing overwhelming financial burdens. We fight to recover compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, we seek compensation for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident are significant damages we address in your claim.
- Property Damage: If personal property, such as a phone or glasses, was damaged during the accident, we pursue reimbursement.
- Wrongful Death: If a loved one was tragically killed in a pedestrian accident, we can help your family file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
We aim to secure a settlement or verdict that fully compensates you for your losses.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, pedestrian accident victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim under the state’s statute of limitations. Missing this deadline can bar you from pursuing compensation.
However, certain exceptions may apply, such as in cases involving minors. We encourage you to contact our team as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Why Choose Doney Law
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to your needs.
- Proven Results: Our track record of success speaks to our dedication and ability to secure favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Compassionate Representation: We treat every client like family, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout the process.
- Local Expertise: As a pedestrian accident attorney near you, we know the Tulsa area’s streets, laws, and courts, giving us an edge in handling your case.
When you work with us, you’re not just another case file—you’re part of a partnership committed to achieving justice.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
The moments following a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your case:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
- Call the Police: Ensure an official accident report is filed.
- Gather Information: Collect contact details for the driver, witnesses, and any responding officers.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any visible damage.
- Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit fault or make statements that could be used against you later.
- Contact a Lawyer: Contact an experienced Tulsa pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to begin building your case.
Let Us Help You Seek Justice
Pedestrian accidents can turn lives upside down, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Doney Law, we are here to shoulder the legal burden and fight for the justice you deserve. Our team is dedicated to providing clients with the highest advocacy and support throughout Tulsa and beyond.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Let us help you take the first step toward rebuilding your life. Together, we can achieve the outcome you need to move forward confidently.
