Beaufort County Pedestrian Accident Lawyers 

Fighting For Pedestrian Accident Victims in South Carolina

Last year, there were more pedestrians struck by cars on the roadways in Hilton Head Island and Bluffton than in any year prior. As the area grows in both population and popularity, there are more pedestrians and automobiles on the roadways. Unfortunately, not all drivers pay attention to pedestrians. Texting while driving remains a significant problem despite new laws that prohibit it. Visitors are often distracted from driving by the beautiful Low Country scenery. No matter the cause, injuries to pedestrians are on the rise. 

In South Carolina, all drivers have a statutory duty to keep a lookout for pedestrians. Drivers must be careful in allowing pedestrians to use crosswalks and marked pathways. Drivers breaking the speed limit frequently cause pedestrian injuries in this area. Although pedestrians sometimes make mistakes, the vast majority of injuries are caused by negligent drivers. Unfortunately, many accidents result in severe injuries and/or death. 

In the most despicable circumstances, "hit & run" drivers leave the accident scene while pedestrians lie injured on the roadside. 

If you've been injured by a negligent driver, trust the local experience found at Bauer & Metro, P.C.. We live and work in the community we serve and are intimately familiar with local highways and roads. Don't be fooled by the more prominent "chain" law firms that have no connection whatsoever to Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. 

If you or a loved one were injured or killed, get in touch with a professional pedestrian accident attorney in Beaufort County at Bauer & Metro, P.C.. Contact us online or dial (843) 920-2844 for a consultation.

Common Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents

Common causes may include the following:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who text, eat, or engage in other distractions are less likely to notice pedestrians crossing streets or walking alongside the road.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time, making it harder for drivers to stop in time to avoid striking a pedestrian.
• Failure to Yield: Ignoring traffic signals or crosswalks could lead to dangerous collisions with pedestrians who have the right of way.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers pose a substantial risk to everyone on the road, which includes pedestrians. Alcohol and drugs hinder judgment and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Poor Visibility: Weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, and nighttime driving can make it challenging for drivers to see pedestrians, especially in poorly lit areas.
• Reckless Driving: Actions like running red lights, aggressive lane changes, or failing to observe school zone rules can put pedestrians at significant risk.

Common Injuries From Pedestrian Accidents

Since a pedestrian has less protection than a car occupant, pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, many of which can be serious. Common injuries may include:

• Soft tissue injuries, such as contusions, lacerations, strains, sprains, rips, and dislocations, are among the most frequent injuries received in pedestrian accidents.
• Bone fractures and breaks are also frequently seen in such accidents, often involving the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, legs, and back. Pedestrians can suffer from broken ribs, arms, legs, pelvic bones, and other fractures upon impact with a vehicle.
• Head trauma is another common injury, with concussions or more severe brain injuries occurring due to the force of the collision. Neck, back, and spinal injuries are also typical and can lead to long-term complications or disabilities.
• Internal injuries are another concern, including internal bleeding, rib fractures, punctured lungs, brain bleeds, ruptured spleens, or damage to other organs. In extreme cases, a pedestrian may even suffer a loss of limbs.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Pedestrian Accidents?

Depending on the specifics of the incident, multiple parties may share responsibility for pedestrian accidents. In most cases, drivers who cause an accident due to being distracted, breaking traffic laws, or failing to use reasonable care are held accountable. For example, a driver may be held liable if they strike a pedestrian while speeding or running a red light.

However, pedestrians can also be held liable. If a pedestrian acts negligently, such as jaywalking, crossing against traffic signals, or walking into the path of an oncoming vehicle, they could bear some or all of the responsibility for the accident.

In some situations, both the motorist and the pedestrian may be held liable under contributory negligence. The level of liability for each party is decided by their separate involvement in the accident.

Moreover, other entities could be held liable too, such as a municipality for failing to maintain safe roadways, or a vehicle manufacturer for defective parts that contributed to the accident.

Contact Our Pedestrian Lawyer in Beaufort County Today

If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the road to recovery could be challenging. You shouldn’t have to face legal battles on your own while focusing on healing. Bauer & Metro, P.C. is here to advocate for your rights and provide the support you need to move forward.

Our Beaufort County pedestrian accident attorney will review the details of your case, answer your questions, and develop a legal strategy to pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact Bauer & Metro, P.C., today and let us handle the legal complexities while you concentrate on your recovery. 

Local experience does indeed make a difference. Call (843) 920-2844 or fill out our online contact form to get started with our Beaufort County pedestrian accident attorney. All consultations at Bauer & Metro, P.C. are free.