Vicksburg Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Injured by a Negligent Driver While Walking the Streets of Vicksburg, MS?

At 'MAGGIO LAW, we are committed to standing up for the rights of pedestrians in Vicksburg, MS, who have suffered injuries due to accidents caused by the negligence of others. Pedestrian accidents are often severe, leading to life-changing injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, our experienced Vicksburg pedestrian accident attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (601) 265-6869 to schedule a free consultation.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen in many ways, often when drivers fail to observe the laws meant to protect pedestrians. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. When a driver’s attention is off the road, they are more likely to miss pedestrians crossing streets or walking along the side of the road.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time if a pedestrian suddenly crosses the road. Higher speeds also increase the severity of injuries in the event of a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers are legally required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. When they fail to do so, pedestrians are put at serious risk of injury.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and less awareness of their surroundings. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases the risk of a pedestrian accident.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or other adverse weather conditions can make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Left-Hand Turns: Drivers making left-hand turns are often focused on oncoming traffic and may not notice pedestrians crossing the street in front of them.

Mississippi Pedestrian Accident Laws

In Mississippi, several laws are designed to protect pedestrians and reduce the number of accidents. Knowing these laws can help injured pedestrians and their attorneys understand their rights and build a strong case.

• Right-of-Way: Mississippi law requires that drivers yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at intersections. Drivers must also stop when a pedestrian is in a crosswalk until the pedestrian has safely crossed.
• Duty of Care: Both drivers and pedestrians have a duty to exercise reasonable care on the road. Pedestrians must avoid stepping into traffic unexpectedly or jaywalking, and drivers are expected to exercise caution in areas where pedestrians are present.
• Comparative Negligence: Mississippi follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that a pedestrian may still recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident. However, their recovery may be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a pedestrian was 20% at fault, they would receive 80% of the awarded compensation.
• Statute of Limitations: In Mississippi, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident. Acting within this timeframe is essential to ensure that your case remains eligible for legal action.

Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries due to the vulnerability of those walking on foot. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can range from concussions to more severe brain damage, potentially resulting in lifelong cognitive or physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries may lead to partial or complete paralysis, drastically affecting a victim’s quality of life.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a vehicle can lead to broken bones, including fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
• Internal Injuries: Pedestrians hit by a vehicle may suffer from internal bleeding and organ damage, which can be life-threatening.
• Cuts and Lacerations: While often less severe than other injuries, deep cuts and lacerations can still lead to scarring, infection, and nerve damage.
• Psychological Trauma: Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety after an accident, which can impact their ability to resume normal activities.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and, in many cases, a significant lifestyle adjustment. At 'MAGGIO LAW, we are dedicated to ensuring our clients receive compensation that addresses both the immediate and long-term effects of their injuries.

Call (601) 265-6869 or complete our contact form online to see how we can help you manage your pedestrian accident claim.