As Salt Lake City personal injury attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian accidents. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle while walking in Utah, understanding your rights is crucial. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Severity of Injuries Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and road rash

2. Right-of-Way Laws in Utah Utah law generally give pedestrians the right-of-way in crosswalks and at intersections. However, pedestrians must also obey traffic signals and use caution when crossing.
3. Comparative Negligence in Utah Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
4. Importance of Immediate Medical Attention Even if you feel fine initially, seek medical attention immediately. Some serious injuries may not show symptoms right away, and prompt medical care creates crucial documentation for your case.
5. Gathering Evidence Strong evidence is vital in pedestrian accident cases:

• Photos of the accident scene and your injuries
• Witness statements
• Surveillance or traffic camera footage
• Medical records
• Police reports

6. Dealing with Insurance Companies Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters. They may try to minimize your claim or shift blame onto you. Consider having an attorney handle these communications.
7. Potential for Multiple Liable Parties In some cases, parties other than the driver may be liable:

• The vehicle owner (if different from the driver)
• Government entities (for poorly designed or maintained roads)
• Construction companies (for unsafe work zones)

8. No-Contact Accidents Even if a vehicle didn’t physically hit you (e.g., you fell while trying to avoid being hit), you may still have a valid claim.
9. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage If the driver who hit you is uninsured or underinsured, your own auto insurance policy might provide coverage, even though you were on foot.
10. Statute of Limitations In Utah, you generally have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to start your claim process as soon as possible.

At Christian Burridge Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing pedestrian accident victims in Utah. We understand the complexities of these cases and how to build strong arguments that secure fair compensation for our clients.

Don’t let the aftermath of a pedestrian accident overwhelm you. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle while walking in Utah, contact Christian Burridge Law Firm today at 877-BURRIDGE or click here for a free consultation.

We’ll evaluate your case, explain your rights, and fight tirelessly to secure the full compensation you’re entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Remember, you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Time is critical in pedestrian accident cases. Don’t wait – reach out to us today and let our experienced legal team protect your rights while you focus on recovery. As dedicated advocates for pedestrian safety in Utah, we’re committed to ensuring justice for injured pedestrians and holding negligent drivers accountable.