Pedestrian crashes have become an increasing concern across Texas, with hundreds of lives lost every year. As daylight fades earlier in the fall and visibility decreases, October has emerged as the most dangerous month for people walking near traffic. Last year alone, 773 pedestrians were killed in traffic accidents statewide, and nearly one in eight of those deaths occurred in October.
When a driver fails to slow down, yield, or stay alert, the outcome can be devastating. For victims and families, the days that follow a pedestrian accident often bring confusion, pain, and uncertainty about what to do next. Taking the right steps early can make a major difference in protecting health, rights, and future recovery.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Texas
Pedestrian crashes in Texas have increased by 25 percent since 2020 — a trend that peaks every October. A pedestrian crash can leave lasting injuries and unanswered questions. The moments after the impact matter, both medically and legally. Taking the following steps can help protect your well-being and strengthen any potential claim for compensation:
- Call 911 and get medical care: Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions like concussions or internal bleeding may not appear right away.
- Request a police report: An official record is critical. It documents who was involved, where the crash occurred, and what witnesses saw.
- Gather evidence: Photos of the vehicle, crosswalk, lighting, and injuries can help prove fault.
- Get witness contact information: Independent accounts can clarify how the crash happened.
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies before consulting a lawyer: Insurers often try to shift blame or minimize payouts.
These steps not only preserve evidence but also prevent costly mistakes that could weaken your case. A personal injury attorney can take over communication with insurance companies and ensure every piece of evidence is properly documented.
Why October Is So Dangerous for Pedestrians
October marks National Pedestrian Safety Month, and for good reason. As daylight hours shorten, visibility decreases, and drivers struggle to see people walking near intersections or crossing streets at dusk. Evening commutes often coincide with school traffic and recreational activities, creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians.
The Texas Department of Transportation recently launched its “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign, reminding drivers that safety starts behind the wheel. Common risk factors include speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield, especially at night or when turning through intersections. Larger vehicles such as SUVs and trucks also pose greater danger because of blind spots that make pedestrians harder to see.
Determining Liability After a Pedestrian Crash
In Texas, drivers are required by law to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and intersections. When they fail to do so, they can be held responsible for the injuries or deaths that result. Proving fault, however, can be complex. Insurers may argue that the pedestrian was not in a crosswalk or was crossing outside of designated areas.
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if a pedestrian is found partially at fault, their compensation can be reduced. An experienced attorney can investigate the scene, review police and medical reports, and consult experts to establish exactly how the crash occurred and who bears responsibility.
Pedestrian accidents often cause catastrophic injuries such as brain trauma, spinal damage, fractures, and internal bleeding. Victims may face months of rehabilitation, lost wages, and ongoing pain. A lawyer with experience in Texas pedestrian cases can help victims and families pursue compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
A pedestrian accident attorney can:
- Investigate the crash and preserve key evidence.
- Review driver phone records, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Handle all communication and negotiation with insurers.
- File a lawsuit if the driver or insurance company refuses to take responsibility.
Having a lawyer on your side can level the playing field and ensure that the focus remains on the driver’s negligence, not the victim’s actions.
Taking Action After a Serious Pedestrian Crash
When someone is struck by a car, time matters. Evidence can disappear, memories fade, and legal deadlines approach quickly. Acting early allows a lawyer to protect the claim and begin building a strong case for compensation.
For more than two decades, John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, has represented injured pedestrians and their families throughout Laredo and southern Texas. We have built a reputation for standing up to insurance companies and holding negligent drivers accountable for the harm they cause.
If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, get the help you need right away. Contact John R. Solis, Attorney at Law, for a free consultation. There are no upfront fees, and you pay nothing unless your case is won. Protect your rights and take the first step toward justice today.
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