Cambridge Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Providing Compassionate Client Service & Aggressive Advocacy

Pedestrian accidents are some of the most tragic incidents on the road, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. Whether a pedestrian is crossing the street at a crosswalk, walking along a sidewalk, or trying to navigate busy streets in Cambridge, MA, the potential for accidents is ever-present.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, Our Cambridge pedestrian accident attorneys at Georges Cote Law are here to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and fight for your entitled compensation.

After you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Cambridge, MA, contact us at (617) 229-6720 to schedule a free consultation.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen for a wide variety of reasons, often due to driver negligence or dangerous conditions in the environment. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Cambridge is distracted driving. Whether a driver is texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, taking their attention off the road can have dangerous consequences for pedestrians. Drivers who fail to remain focused on their surroundings are more likely to miss seeing a pedestrian crossing the street, leading to accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the driver’s ability to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Speeding is especially dangerous in urban areas like Cambridge, where pedestrians are often walking close to traffic. Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for the road conditions put both themselves and pedestrians at serious risk.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks. Unfortunately, not all drivers comply with these laws. Failure to yield, especially at busy intersections or pedestrian crossings, is a common cause of pedestrian accidents.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another significant factor contributing to pedestrian accidents. Impaired drivers often have reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and difficulty maintaining control of their vehicles, making them more likely to strike pedestrians.
• Poor Road Conditions: Unsafe road conditions, such as potholes, uneven sidewalks, or poorly marked crosswalks, can increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents. A poorly maintained roadway or sidewalk can make it harder for pedestrians to navigate and may lead to slips, trips, or falls.
• Weather Conditions: Harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can create hazardous environments for both drivers and pedestrians. Reduced visibility and slippery surfaces contribute to the risk of accidents, especially if drivers are not driving cautiously or pedestrians are not wearing appropriate footwear.
• Inadequate Lighting: Pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur in poorly lit areas, especially during the evening or night. Inadequate street lighting or poorly illuminated crosswalks make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians and for pedestrians to assess oncoming traffic.

Massachusetts Pedestrian Laws

In Massachusetts, the law provides specific rules to protect pedestrians and ensure that both pedestrians and drivers act responsibly when sharing the road. Understanding these laws is crucial for both pedestrians and drivers in preventing accidents and minimizing liability.

Right-of-Way

Under Massachusetts law, pedestrians have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks. Drivers are required to stop and yield to pedestrians who are crossing or about to cross in these designated areas. However, pedestrians must also be cautious and ensure it is safe to cross, even when they have the right-of-way.

Jaywalking

While pedestrians have the right-of-way in crosswalks, Massachusetts law prohibits jaywalking, or crossing the street outside of a marked crosswalk. Pedestrians who engage in jaywalking may be partially at fault if they are involved in an accident. However, even in such cases, the driver’s actions and negligence will still be thoroughly evaluated.

Pedestrian Safety Zones

Massachusetts has designated pedestrian safety zones, especially near schools, parks, and other high-traffic areas. Drivers must exercise extra caution in these areas to protect pedestrians from harm. Pedestrians should also be vigilant in these zones, adhering to traffic signals and walking with caution.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Determining liability in a pedestrian accident can be a complex process, as various parties may be at fault depending on the circumstances. Here are the potential parties that may be liable for a pedestrian accident:

Drivers

In most pedestrian accidents, the driver of the vehicle is the party at fault. If a driver was distracted, speeding, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or violated traffic laws, they may be held liable for the accident. A Cambridge pedestrian accident attorney can help you prove negligence and seek compensation from the at-fault driver.

Government Entities

If the accident occurred due to poorly maintained roadways, defective traffic signals, or inadequate signage, the local government or municipal agencies may be held responsible. A government entity's negligence in maintaining safe roads and crosswalks can contribute to pedestrian accidents.

Property Owners

In some cases, a property owner may be liable if a pedestrian accident occurs on their property due to dangerous conditions like uneven sidewalks, inadequate lighting, or obstructions. Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe environments for pedestrians.

Pedestrians

In certain situations, a pedestrian may share some or all of the responsibility for the accident. For example, if a pedestrian was jaywalking or not paying attention to traffic, they may be considered partially at fault. However, Massachusetts follows comparative negligence laws, meaning that even if a pedestrian is partially at fault, they may still be entitled to compensation.

Why You Need Our Legal Assistance

Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or even wrongful death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Cambridge, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney to navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

At Georges Cote Law, we understand the complexities of pedestrian accident cases and are committed to helping victims obtain fair compensation for their injuries. Our team will conduct a thorough investigation of your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court. We have a proven track record of success in personal injury cases and are dedicated to securing the justice you deserve.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, schedule a risk-free case review, call our office at (617) 229-6720 today.