Accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians can have serious consequences, both legally and physically. If you’re involved in hitting a pedestrian with a car in Minnetonka or the surrounding Minnesota area, understanding what to expect is essential. At Schmidt and Salita Law Team, we’re here to help you navigate the complex laws surrounding pedestrian accidents and provide you with the legal support you need.
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection for the pedestrian. Injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering or fatal trauma. Common types of injuries include:
According to data from the Foundation for Traffic Safety, even a car traveling at 30 mph has a significant risk of causing severe or fatal injuries to a pedestrian, highlighting the inherent dangers in these types of accidents.
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident can be intricate, as multiple parties may share responsibility. The driver is often assumed to be at fault, but other factors can influence liability, such as road conditions or actions taken by the pedestrian. Here’s a breakdown of the potentially liable parties:
Establishing liability typically requires a thorough investigation, often involving evidence from the accident scene, witness statements, and police reports. This can be a tricky process, particularly if multiple parties share fault. Minnesota’s comparative fault laws allow injured parties to recover compensation even if they share some degree of fault, as long as they are less than 50% responsible for the accident.
Hitting a pedestrian can lead to serious consequences, both legally and financially. Legally, you may face penalties if found at fault, particularly if you were driving negligently—such as speeding, driving while distracted, or under the influence. Criminal charges could include fines, jail time, and suspension of your driver’s license, especially in cases involving severe injuries or fatalities.
Financially, you may be liable for the pedestrian’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. While your auto insurance might cover some of these costs, serious accidents often result in claims that exceed policy limits, leaving you personally responsible for the difference. Moreover, your insurance premiums will likely increase significantly following such an incident.
Emotional impacts are common as well. Drivers who injure or kill a pedestrian often experience guilt, anxiety, or even post-traumatic stress. These psychological effects may require professional help and can have lasting impacts.
Finally, the injured pedestrian may choose to file a civil lawsuit, seeking damages beyond what insurance covers. Civil cases can lead to court-ordered financial judgments if the driver is found liable, potentially resulting in wage garnishments or other financial repercussions.
Involved in a pedestrian accident in Minnetonka? The skilled attorneys at Schmidt and Salita Law Team are here to protect your rights and guide you through the process. Call (952) 473-4530 or contact us today for a free consultation.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Dean M. Salita, with more than 30 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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