Oftentimes, accidents involve two vehicles crashing into each other. However, sometimes accidents involve pedestrians. Accidents that involve pedestrians are significantly worse because pedestrians are not afforded the same level of protection as vehicles are. There is no outside protection for pedestrians, so they are often seriously injured. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, they may be entitled to compensation for their damages. However, it depends on whether they were legally or illegally crossing the street. Determining liability in a pedestrian accident ultimately depends on whether the pedestrian was within a crosswalk when struck. Follow along to learn who is liable for a crosswalk accident and how a seasoned St. Mary’s County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer can help you.
What is a crosswalk accident in Maryland?
On the road, there are two types of crosswalks pedestrians can use to safely cross the road. Marked crosswalks are outlined by painted markings so that they are easily identifiable by pedestrians and motorists. Unmarked crosswalks, on the other hand, do not have lines. Instead, it is often defined as any area of an intersection that forms a straight line from one side of the road to the other. It can also be defined as the continuation of an existing sidewalk across a road. Although unmarked crosswalks are not outlined, pedestrians are still awarded the same level of protection as marked crosswalks. Marked and unmarked crosswalks are both areas of the road where pedestrians are legally allowed to cross the street. A crosswalk accident occurs when a pedestrian that is within a marked or unmarked crosswalk is struck by a vehicle. As mentioned above, crosswalk accidents are particularly dangerous because pedestrians are not equipped with the same outside protection as vehicles. Unfortunately, many do not walk away from this type of accident unharmed. Pedestrians are often burdened with life-altering injuries.
Who is liable?
In Maryland, motorists are liable for crosswalk accidents. Under Maryland Code of Transportation laws, motorists are legally required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk. Pedestrians that cross the street in a crosswalk expect and assume that motorists will abide by the rules of the road and yield the right of way. Ultimately, motorists are responsible for pedestrians’ safety. Unfortunately, many motorists disobey the law when it comes to yielding the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks which results in serious accidents and injuries. Essentially, motorists are often at fault for these accidents. However, if a pedestrian illegally crosses the street, which causes a motorist to strike another vehicle to avoid hitting the pedestrian, the pedestrian can be held accountable.
In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one has been injured in a crosswalk accident, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our determined and trusted team members. It is imperative to have the right legal representation on your side. Allow our dedicated lawyers to help you hold liable parties accountable for their negligent actions and get you the justice you deserve.
