Why Serious Pedestrian Accidents Can Change Lives in an Instant
A recent pedestrian accident in Knoxville is a heartbreaking reminder of how devastating pedestrian accidents can be. According to reports, a four-year-old girl was in critical condition after being struck by a vehicle near Merchants Drive and Cedar Lane earlier this month.
Reports indicate the dangerous pedestrian accident occurred after a verbal argument between a man working for a nearby food truck owner and the business owner. According to investigators, the driver struck the business owner’s young daughter while she was playing near the curb as he drove away. Authorities further allege that the driver attempted to leave the scene before family members intervened. He was later taken into custody and now faces multiple criminal charges, with additional charges possible as the investigation continues.
While the criminal case moves forward, the recent pedestrian accident also serves as a reminder that victims of serious pedestrian accidents may have important legal rights under Tennessee civil law.
Pedestrians Have Little Protection During a Collision
Unlike occupants of passenger vehicles, Knoxville pedestrians have no seat belts, airbags, or steel frame to absorb the force of an impact. As such, even pedestrian accidents that occur at relatively low speeds can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal injuries, or other life-changing conditions. Young children are particularly vulnerable because of their size and developing bodies.
Criminal Charges and Civil Claims Are Different
When a Knoxville driver is accused of committing a crime, prosecutors decide whether criminal charges should be pursued. A criminal case focuses on whether the driver violated the law and what penalties may be imposed. A civil personal injury claim, however, serves a different purpose. It allows injured Knoxville pedestrian accident victims or their families to pursue compensation for medical expenses, future medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages that may be available under Tennessee law. Importantly, a civil claim may exist regardless of whether criminal charges are ultimately filed or result in a conviction.
A Thorough Investigation Is Important
Pedestrian accident cases in Knoxville often require careful investigation. Witness statements, surveillance video, photographs, accident reconstruction, and other evidence may all play an important role in determining how the pedestrian accident occurred and who may be legally responsible. Acting promptly can also help preserve evidence that may become more difficult to obtain over time. Every Knoxville pedestrian accident presents unique facts that deserve careful evaluation.
Getting Legal Help with Your Knoxville Pedestrian Accident Case
Serious pedestrian accident cases in Knoxville often involve substantial injuries, complicated insurance issues, and significant financial losses. An experienced Knoxville pedestrian accident lawyer can investigate the collision, preserve important evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation available under Tennessee law. Because Tennessee law provides only a limited amount of time to file many personal injury claims, it is important to understand your legal rights as soon as possible after a serious pedestrian accident happens.
Knoxville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian accident in Knoxville, the experienced Knoxville pedestrian accident lawyers at Fox Farley Willis & Burnette PLLC are here to help. The experienced Knoxville pedestrian accident lawyers at Fox Farley Willis & Burnette PLLC are committed to helping you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.
Contact Fox Farley Willis & Burnette PLLC today and speak with a Knoxville pedestrian accident lawyer about your case now.
Source:
wbir.com/article/news/local/knoxville/kpd-asking-public-avoid-merchants-drive-cedar-lane-serious-crash/51-6e4a9558-924a-447f-80be-3f6350a435ab