Pedestrian injury lawyers in Virginia

Helping pedestrians and drivers become safer in Virginia

Pedestrians, or people traveling by foot, are far too often involved in traffic accidents that result in injury and even death.

Almost 2,000 pedestrians were injured in collisions involving motor vehicles in 2015 in Virginia, which accounts for roughly 2.5 percent of all traffic-related injuries that year. Approximately 78 pedestrians were killed in collisions involving motor vehicles, which accounts for 10.4 percent of Virginia’s traffic-related fatalities.

Virginia has traffic laws about pedestrians, and cities and counties may also add local rules.

GibsonSingleton Virginia Injury Attorneys would rather work to prevent pedestrian accidents today than defend an injured neighbor tomorrow. That’s why we share safety information with our community. And, we always stand ready to help when you or someone you love has been hurt in an accident, so don’t hesitate to call us with any questions.

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When do drivers have to yield to pedestrians?

Vehicle drivers are supposed to stop or yield to pedestrians in the following circumstances:

• At crosswalks which are marked, or other points along a block;
• At crossings for pedestrian traffic with lateral lines extending from the sidewalk at the end of a block;
• When approaching intersections on roadways with a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less;
• At intersections where movement is under the control of those in law enforcement;
• When exiting a private road or encountering a sidewalk.

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What do traffic signals mean for drivers?

Certain signals are intended to remind drivers that they must yield to pedestrians:

• A round signal flashing red requires a driver to stop when approaching an intersection.
• An arrow flashing red requires a driver to stop when approaching an intersection.
• A round yellow signal reminds drivers to use reasonable care or caution relating to pedestrians.
• An arrow flashing yellow allows drivers to turn in that direction, but to do so with reasonable care.
• A red light requires a driver to stop before turning left or right.

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Are there rules for pedestrians?

In general, pedestrians need to act safely around traffic and not stop or step in front of passing vehicles. Pedestrians are not supposed to walk on the road when a sidewalk is present.

If there is no sidewalk, pedestrians should stay to the far left side of the road, or walk on the shoulder.

When possible, walkers should cross at crosswalks or intersections. When a mixed-use pathway, such as one designed for walking and bicycling, crosses a roadway, pedestrians should stop and obey all traffic control signals and posted signs.

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What are other helpful safety tips for walkers?

1. If you will be walking near motorists, wear light-colored clothing, and use reflective clothing or devices at night.
2. Avoid walking while distracted, such as while texting or talking on your cell phone.
3. Keep in mind that drinking alcohol while walking in public spaces can impair your judgment and increase your chance of being in an accident with a vehicle.

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Were you or a loved one injured in the Gloucester area in a pedestrian accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Virginia pedestrian accident, including being struck by a car while running or jogging, you may be confused about what to do next. Under Virginia law, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries caused by the careless actions of someone else.

The Virginia personal injury lawyers at GibsonSingleton Virginia Injury Attorneys understand the horror of being hit by a car, and we will work to get compensation on your behalf. You don’t pay us unless we recover money for you. Contact our office today at (804) 413-6777.

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Recent Pedestrian Accident Case Results

DISCLAIMER. Each case is handled based on the individual facts and circumstances of the case. These results are NOT indicative of the outcome of any potential case. All case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case, and these case results do not guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case undertaken by our firm.

• $190,000 Compensation - Woman struck and injured by a commercial truck while walking in a crosswalk.
• $175,000 Compensation - Woman was struck by a negligent driver’s car while she was walking in a grocery store parking lot.

See more case results here.

Additional Information

• What causes pedestrian injuries in Virginia?
• When do pedestrians have the right of way in Virginia?
• 5 ways to protect your teenager from distracted walking
• How to teach your kids pedestrian safety
• Pedestrian Safety - CDC
• Pedestrian and Bicyclist Crash Statistics