If you were hit by a car in Central Ohio, an attorney can help you demand justice
Columbus, OH, has been grappling with an ongoing concern regarding pedestrian safety. Over the years, there has been an upward trend in pedestrian accidents, some of which have resulted in severe injuries and tragic fatalities. What compounds this issue is the presence of specific pedestrian accident hotspots within Columbus, areas notorious for their heightened risk.
Pedestrians encounter daily hazards while navigating the city's streets. When a pedestrian sustains injuries or loses their life due to a driver's negligent actions, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can hold those responsible accountable and seek justice on behalf of the victims.
Which roads and streets are among the pedestrian accident hotspots in Columbus, OH?
Several roads have historically been identified as pedestrian accident hotspots in Columbus, OH. Some of the most notable include:
- U.S. Route 33: The Riverside Drive section of this route is known for its narrow, winding lanes. Many traffic accidents on this road include road departures, head-on collisions, and sideswipes. This makes it particularly dangerous for pedestrians.
- Broad Street: This major thoroughfare experiences diverse traffic conditions and has accident-prone intersections. Many traffic accidents on this road typically involve pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles.
- Cleveland Avenue (U.S. Route 23): Known for high traffic volume, this avenue frequently sees rear-end collisions, intersection crashes, and pedestrian accidents.
- North High Street: In the downtown area, this street witnesses a high number of traffic accidents. That includes intersection collisions and rear-end crashes. This street also has a high concentration of pedestrians.
Which intersections are pedestrian accident hotspots in Columbus, OH?
High traffic volume, complex road layouts, and a mix of pedestrian and vehicle traffic characterize the most dangerous intersections for Columbus pedestrians. The risks at these intersections are often influenced by distracted driving, speeding, and hazardous road conditions.
These intersections include:
- Cleveland Avenue and Morse Road: Located in the northeastern part of the city, this intersection is one of the busiest in Columbus. It’s noted for its high frequency of traffic accidents, making it one of the city’s most dangerous intersections.
- Hamilton Road and Livingston Avenue: Situated in the southeastern area of Columbus, this intersection has been identified as one of the top dangerous spots. Although recent road improvements have enhanced pedestrian safety, it remains a concern.
- Karl Road and Morse Road: This intersection is located in Columbus’s northeastern section. This is another intersection that sees a significant number of traffic accidents.
- Hilliard Rome Road and Renner Road: Found in the western part of the city, near the Hilliard city limits, this intersection is also among the most dangerous pedestrian accident hotspots in Columbus.
- Cleveland Avenue and Dublin Granville Road: This intersection is situated in the northern part of Columbus. It’s another area that demands attention for pedestrian safety due to the high crash risk.
Leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Columbus, OH
Several factors contribute to pedestrian accidents in Columbus, OH. Some of the common causes include:
- Lack of marked crosswalks: Pedestrians are at a greater risk of getting hit by cars in unmarked crosswalks. Marked crosswalks are more visible to drivers and provide a safer crossing point for pedestrians.
- Speeding: Excessive speed by drivers is a common factor in many pedestrian collisions. The faster the speed, the less time drivers have to stop for pedestrians.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving, such as texting and driving, increases the risk of hitting pedestrians. These accidents sometimes happen at full speed when distracted drivers make no effort to slow down or stop.
- Driving while intoxicated: Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol or drugs, is a significant factor in pedestrian accidents. It decreases drivers’ cognitive functioning, judgment, and reaction time.
- Failing to stop or yield the right of way: Many Columbus drivers fail to adhere to traffic signals or yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Turns at intersections and backing out of driveways or parking spaces: These maneuvers can be dangerous for pedestrians if drivers are not paying attention.
What are common pedestrian accident injuries?
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection people on foot have compared to vehicle occupants. Some of the most common injuries sustained include:
- Leg and torso injuries: These are often the first point of impact in a pedestrian accident. These injuries include breaks or fractures, serious contusions (scrapes and bruising), and damage to connective tissue. In severe cases, these injuries can lead to amputation, permanent disability, or even paralysis.
- Head injuries: Head trauma is common when a pedestrian's body comes into contact with a motor vehicle. This can include concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries.
- Lacerations and disfigurement: Lacerations might range from minor, requiring minimal first aid, to severe, necessitating stitches or reconstructive surgeries.
- Injuries to upper extremities: Many pedestrians experience injuries to their upper extremities, such as arms, shoulders, wrists, and hands. These injuries occur from direct impact or as a defensive response to a collision.
- Spinal injuries: The spine can be impacted and even severely damaged during a pedestrian accident. Pedestrians often suffer from herniated discs, spinal cord damage, and spinal fractures. Minor pedestrian accidents may result in whiplash.
- Fatalities and long-term disabilities: Pedestrian accidents have a higher likelihood of being fatal compared to vehicle accidents. Survivors might face long-term or permanent disabilities.
How much is my pedestrian accident claim worth?
There is no definitive answer to how much a pedestrian accident claim is worth. It all depends on the severity of your injuries and how they affect your life. Only an attorney can accurately determine the true value of your claim. When assessing the value of a case, a lawyer will consider:
- Medical expenses, including future medical costs.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity.
- The need for personal assistance while you recover.
- Transportation to and from medical appointments.
- Pain and suffering you endured due to your injuries.
Insurance company tactics in pedestrian accident claims
Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be a challenging and frustrating process. Insurance adjusters often use various tactics to minimize their financial liability, even when their policyholders are at fault for the accident. It's essential to be aware of these tactics and to seek legal representation to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
One common tactic is to offer a quick settlement shortly after the accident, which may appear tempting at first glance but typically falls far short of the actual value of your claim. The goal is to have you accept a lower settlement without recognizing the true extent of your damages.
Another tactic involves purposefully delaying the processing of your claim. These delays can result in unnecessary waiting periods for compensation, and insurers hope that you'll become financially desperate and accept a reduced settlement out of necessity.
Insurance providers may also dispute liability, asserting that their policyholder was not at fault or suggesting that you contributed to the accident. This approach can lead to a reduction or denial of your claim, even in cases where liability is evident. Even if they acknowledge liability, insurers often offer settlements that do not fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Additionally, insurance adjusters may request recorded statements from you, aiming to capture statements that can be used against you later. It's crucial to consult with an attorney before providing any statements to the insurance company to protect your interests.
Insurers may downplay the severity of your injuries, suggesting that they existed prior to the accident or were not as serious as you claim. They may also question the necessity of medical treatments and procedures recommended by your healthcare providers, casting doubt on their legitimacy.
How can a Columbus, OH pedestrian accident attorney help me?
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be challenging on your own. That’s why consulting with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney is essential to safeguard your rights and pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve.
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Columbus because of someone else’s negligence, contact an attorney to handle your claim. A Premier Pedestrian Accident Lawyer will ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way and that the insurance companies don’t take advantage of you.
They will also thoroughly investigate your pedestrian accident and gather solid evidence to build and support your claim. An attorney won’t accept a lowball settlement; they’ll fight to ensure that you’re compensated to the fullest extent possible.
In addition, hiring a Columbus, OH pedestrian accident lawyer won’t cost you anything upfront. They operate on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if they successfully recover damages on your behalf. To get started, contact an attorney in your area today for a free, no-obligation legal consultation.
