Norfolk Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Suffered an Injury Caused by a Negligent Driver in Norfolk, VA?

Have you or a loved one been injured in a pedestrian accident in Norfolk, Virginia? The aftermath of such an incident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help you navigate the legal process. Our experienced team of Norfolk pedestrian accident lawyers is dedicated to protecting your rights, seeking justice, and obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Call or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in Virginia

Pedestrian accidents can occur in various settings, such as crosswalks, sidewalks, parking lots, or even residential areas. Unfortunately, these accidents often result in severe injuries due to the vulnerability of pedestrians in collisions with motor vehicles. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is crucial to know your rights under Virginia law.

In Virginia, there are specific laws in place to protect the rights of pedestrians and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Some key provisions include:

• Right-of-Way: Virginia law mandates that drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. This applies to both marked and unmarked crosswalks, ensuring pedestrians have the right to safely navigate roadways.
• Pedestrian Signals: Pedestrians are required to follow traffic signals and crosswalk indicators. However, drivers are also responsible for respecting these signals and yielding to pedestrians when indicated.
• Sidewalk Usage: Pedestrians are generally expected to use sidewalks when available. If sidewalks are not present, they should walk on the left side of the road, facing traffic. Drivers should be cautious and provide ample space when passing pedestrians in these situations.
• School Zones and Crossings: Drivers must exercise extra caution in school zones, where children are present. Special attention should be given to designated school crossings and reduced speed limits.
• Distracted Driving: Virginia has strict laws against distracted driving, including texting while driving. If a driver's distraction leads to a pedestrian accident, they may face serious legal consequences.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability in pedestrian accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may share fault. Potentially liable parties include:

• Negligent Drivers: A driver who speeds, fails to yield, or drives while distracted may be held responsible.
• Pedestrians: In some cases, pedestrians who cross against signals or outside of crosswalks may share liability.
• Government Entities: If poor road design, malfunctioning signals, or inadequate lighting contributed to the accident, a government agency may bear partial responsibility.
• Third Parties: For example, a bar or restaurant may be held liable if they overserved a driver who caused the accident.

Virginia follows the contributory negligence rule, meaning if a pedestrian is even 1% at fault, they may be barred from recovering compensation. This makes it critical to work with a skilled attorney who can build a strong case on your behalf.

Recovering Compensation

Pedestrian accident victims often face significant financial burdens. With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time away from work and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Permanent Disability: Damages for long-term or permanent impairment.
• Wrongful Death: If a loved one is killed in a pedestrian accident, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost support, and emotional suffering.

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we fight aggressively to ensure injured pedestrians and their families secure the compensation they need to move forward.

Pedestrian Accident FAQs

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?

Call 911, seek medical treatment, and report the accident to law enforcement. If possible, gather contact information from witnesses and take photos of the scene.

How long do I have to file a claim in Virginia?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Virginia is generally two years from the date of the accident. Filing after this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.

Can I recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Virginia’s contributory negligence rule is strict—if you are found even slightly at fault, you may not recover compensation. This makes legal representation crucial.

Do pedestrian accidents always involve crosswalks?

No. Pedestrian accidents can occur in parking lots, residential neighborhoods, sidewalks, and highways. Liability depends on the circumstances.

How much is my pedestrian accident case worth?

Every case is different. Factors such as the severity of injuries, medical expenses, long-term prognosis, and available insurance coverage all affect the value of your claim.

How We Can Help

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our Norfolk pedestrian accident lawyers have a deep understanding of Virginia laws related to pedestrian accidents. We are committed to providing comprehensive legal support and advocacy for our clients.

Here's how we can assist you:

• Investigation: We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your pedestrian accident, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage, if available. This will help establish liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
• Legal Guidance: Our knowledgeable attorneys will explain your rights and guide you through the legal process. We will assess the full extent of your injuries, calculate the damages you may be entitled to, and advise you on the best course of action.
• Negotiation and Litigation: We will diligently negotiate with insurance companies and opposing parties to pursue a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for your rights in front of a jury.
• Client Support: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial strain that pedestrian accidents can cause. Our compassionate team will provide ongoing support, answering your questions, and addressing any concerns you may have throughout the legal process.

If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Norfolk, Virginia, it is essential to act quickly to protect your rights. Contact Kalfus & Nachman PC today for a free consultation.