If you were hit by a vehicle on a crosswalk, sidewalk, in a parking lot, or roadway, you may face significant medical bills, time away from work, and lasting impacts on your daily life. Our pedestrian accident lawyers understand the challenges victims face and are here to help you. Talk to our team today to:
- Learn your legal rights after an accident.
- Get help managing medical bills and insurance.
- Seek fair compensation for your injuries.
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents are among the most serious on the road
Pedestrian accidents, including those involving bicyclists, are some of the most serious and life-altering incidents on the road. Collisions with vehicles often result in severe injuries — such as broken bones, head trauma, and internal damage — due to the lack of protection pedestrians and cyclists have. These accidents can occur in crosswalks, intersections, parking lots, or even sidewalks, often due to driver negligence like speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield.
If you or a loved one was hit by a car while walking or cycling, it's crucial to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress are just some of the challenges you may face — but our team is here to help.
Why choose The Heavyweights?
- Multilingual representation. We serve clients who speak any language. Language shouldn't be a barrier to justice.
- Baltimore-based. We know the roads, the courts, and the insurance companies that serve this city. Local knowledge makes a big difference.
- Fast settlements, serious results. We don't drag things out. We push for top-dollar offers fast — and take it to court if we need to.
- No fees unless you win. You pay us nothing out of pocket. Ever.
What to do after a pedestrian accident in Baltimore
- Ensure your safety and get medical attention — even if injuries aren't immediately apparent. Some injuries show up later.
- Report the accident to the police. A report is crucial evidence for any future claim.
- Gather contact information from witnesses and document the scene with photos if possible.
- Don't talk to the insurance company alone. They'll use your words against you.
- Call us. We'll handle everything else — from paperwork to fighting for your compensation.
Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Baltimore
Urban areas like Baltimore present unique risks due to high traffic density and complex roadways. Common causes of pedestrian crashes here include:
- Distracted driving, especially phone use
- Speeding on city streets and near intersections
- Failure to yield at crosswalks
- Impaired or drunk driving
No matter how your accident happened, we'll investigate the facts, gather evidence, and hold the right parties accountable.
Who is liable in a pedestrian accident in Maryland?
Liability depends on factors like traffic law violations and negligence. It can involve drivers, pedestrians, or even third parties responsible for road maintenance. Maryland law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks — but pedestrians also have responsibilities, such as obeying traffic signals. We investigate every angle to establish who was truly at fault.
Maryland's contributory negligence rule — why it matters
Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. That means if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This is one of the harshest standards in the country, and insurance companies know it — they'll try to pin part of the blame on you to avoid paying. That's exactly why you need an experienced attorney building your case and proving the driver's fault.
What compensation can I recover?
Every case is different, but you may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses, past and future
- Lost wages and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages, if you lost a loved one
Insurance companies will try to lowball you. Don't accept a settlement until you've spoken with us.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Maryland, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Don't wait — evidence disappears fast, and early mistakes can hurt your claim.
Pedestrian Accidents & Injuries — Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about pedestrian accidents, including who may be at fault, what compensation you can seek, and how to protect your rights after being hit by a vehicle.
What should I do immediately after being involved in a pedestrian accident in Baltimore?
Ensure your safety and seek medical attention, even if injuries aren't immediately apparent. Report the accident to the police, gather contact information from witnesses, and document the scene with photos if possible. Promptly reporting the incident is crucial for any future claims.
Who is liable in a pedestrian accident in Maryland?
Liability depends on factors like traffic law violations and negligence. It can involve drivers, pedestrians, or even third parties responsible for road maintenance. Maryland law requires drivers to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks, but pedestrians also have responsibilities, such as obeying traffic signals.
What compensation can I receive after a pedestrian accident?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. The specific compensation depends on the accident's circumstances and the extent of your injuries.
How does Maryland's contributory negligence law affect my pedestrian accident claim?
Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. This underscores the importance of adhering to pedestrian laws and consulting with an attorney to navigate this complex legal standard.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.
What are common causes of pedestrian accidents in Baltimore?
Common causes include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield at crosswalks, and impaired driving. Urban areas like Baltimore also present unique risks due to high traffic density and complex roadways.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Under Maryland's contributory negligence law, being even slightly at fault can bar you from recovering damages. It's crucial to consult with an attorney to assess fault accurately and explore your legal options.
How can I prove the driver was at fault in a pedestrian accident?
Gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage. An attorney can assist in collecting and presenting this evidence effectively to establish liability.
Do I need an attorney for a pedestrian accident claim in Maryland?
While not mandatory, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate the complex legal landscape, especially given Maryland's contributory negligence rule, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Get help today — no fees unless you win
After being hit, everything's overwhelming. Let us take that weight off your shoulders. You focus on healing — we'll handle the rest. Call today for your free consultation. No pressure. Just answers, action, and results.