Prince George's County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Our Prince George’s County pedestrian accident lawyers at Regan Zambri Long understand the physically and emotionally catastrophic nature of these life-changing incidents. One minute, you’re walking to work, to a friend’s place, or the store, and the next, you’re hit by a vehicle, and your life is forever altered. When negligent motorists cause these devastating collisions, our dedicated legal team stands ready to advocate for your rights and recovery.

At Regan Zambri Long, we recognize the complex challenges pedestrian accident victims face during recovery. Our experienced accident attorneys carefully investigate each case, gathering crucial evidence, including traffic camera footage, witness statements, and expert accident reconstruction, to establish liability. We also negotiate aggressively with insurance companies that often attempt to minimize compensation or shift blame to injured pedestrians.

 

We offer a free consultation to new clients where you will speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who will guide you through the claims process and get started on your case. Call today to secure financial compensation for your injuries and ensure justice is served.

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Compensation for Injured Pedestrians in Prince George’s County

A wrongfully injured pedestrian in Prince George’s County can claim three types of damages in a pedestrian accident case: economic, non-economic, and punitive.

Economic Damages

Economic damages provide compensation for tangible financial losses resulting from your pedestrian accident. These include comprehensive medical expenses covering emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation care. For severe injuries common in pedestrian accidents, these costs can be substantial.

 

Economic damages also encompass lost wages for time missed from work during recovery. If your injuries prevent returning to your previous employment or limit your earning capacity, you may receive compensation for diminished future earnings and career opportunities. Additional economic damages include property damage to personal belongings damaged in the accident, transportation costs to medical appointments, and necessary home modifications for accessibility.

 

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the profound personal impact of pedestrian accidents beyond financial losses. These include compensation for physical pain and suffering experienced during and after the accident, emotional distress including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and fear of walking near roadways. They also cover loss of enjoyment of life when injuries prevent participation in previously enjoyed activities, and loss of consortium addressing how injuries affect personal relationships.

 

In Prince George’s County, Maryland law places caps on non-economic damages that adjust annually for inflation, making it essential to have experienced legal representation to maximize this aspect of your claim.

 

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages, punish the defendant for wanton and willful negligence. In pedestrian accident cases in Prince George’s County, these are awarded only in exceptional circumstances where the driver’s conduct shows a complete disregard for safety. Examples might include hit-and-run incidents, drunk driving, or extreme recklessness in school zones.

 

Maryland courts apply strict standards for awarding punitive damages, requiring “actual malice” with clear and convincing evidence—a higher standard than typically required in civil cases.

 

During your initial consultation with a Regan Zambri Long pedestrian accident lawyer, they will carefully evaluate all aspects of your case to determine which damages apply to your personal injury claim. They will then begin the process of thoroughly documenting your losses, consulting with medical and economic experts when necessary, and aggressively pursuing fair compensation that truly reflects the full impact of your injuries on your life.

The Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents In Prince George’s County, MD

Prince George’s County has consistently had a higher number of fatal crashes out of all Maryland counties. One major factor is the high volume of vehicle miles traveled throughout the county. However, critics also say fatalities are due to the lack of bicycle and pedestrian safety. In 2023, out of 621 motor vehicle fatalities, approximately 25% involved the death of a pedestrian.

The top reasons why pedestrian accidents occur in Prince George’s County are:

 

  • Distracted driving: Many pedestrian accidents occur because drivers are not paying attention. Texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the GPS, or even eating while driving can cause a driver to miss a pedestrian in a crosswalk until it’s too late.
  • Reckless driving: Speeding, aggressive lane changes, and running red lights give drivers less time to react when a pedestrian is crossing the road. Reckless driving is a serious hazard in high-traffic areas like Prince George’s County.
  • Poor road conditions: Some pedestrian accidents happen because of unsafe road designs. Missing sidewalks, faded crosswalks, broken traffic signals, and poorly lit intersections make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and for pedestrians to cross safely.
  • Bad weather: Rain, fog, and snow can significantly reduce visibility, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, especially at night. Slippery roads can also increase stopping distances, making it more difficult for vehicles to come to a full stop in time.
  • Failing to yield the right of way: Maryland law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks, but not all drivers follow the rules. Many accidents happen when a driver fails to stop or speeds through a crosswalk, hitting a pedestrian with the legal right to cross.
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Drunk or drug-impaired drivers have slower reaction times, impaired vision, and poor judgment. This makes them far more likely to hit pedestrians, especially at night or in areas with heavy foot traffic.
  • Crossing a roadway or intersection improperly: Not all pedestrian accidents are caused by drivers. Pedestrians who jaywalk, cross outside designated areas, or ignore traffic signals may put themselves in danger. While pedestrians have rights, they also have a responsibility to cross safely.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, a Regan Zambri Long Prince George’s County pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us help you move forward.

This professional portrait shows a male attorney in a dark blue suit and a patterned pink tie standing in front of a law office entrance in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Representing Regan Zambri Long PLLC, a law firm with a strong presence in pedestrian injury cases, the attorney is known for helping victims of serious crosswalk or road accidents in the Fredericksburg area. His confident expression and formal attire reflect a commitment to personal injury representation, specifically involving pedestrian collisions. Contact Regan Zambri Long at +1 (202) 937-3310 if you need a pedestrian accident lawyer serving clients throughout Fredericksburg and Northern Virginia.

Common Injuries Resulting from Prince George’s County Pedestrian Accidents

Injuries from a pedestrian accident can be devastating to the victim. Think about it: pedestrians do not have the protection of a motor vehicle in an accident—no seatbelt, airbag, or metal frame. Therefore, the accident’s impact will fall on their unprotected body, causing severe injury. Depending on the vehicle’s speed and the point of impact, a pedestrian may suffer anything from minor scrapes to catastrophic, permanent damage. The most common injuries our law firm sees are:

 

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Head trauma from striking the pavement or a vehicle can lead to concussions, brain bleeding, memory loss, and cognitive impairments that may last a lifetime.
  • Spinal cord injuries: A sudden blow to the back or neck can damage the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis or chronic pain.
  • Broken bones and fractures: Pedestrians often suffer broken legs, arms, ribs, or hips due to the sheer force of impact. Some fractures require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, or even amputation in extreme cases.
  • Severe burns: In accidents involving vehicle fires, electrical components, or road rash, pedestrians may suffer second or third-degree burns that require painful skin grafts and long recovery periods.
  • Lacerations: Deep cuts from shattered glass or contact with the vehicle can lead to excessive bleeding, infections, and permanent scarring.
  • Soft tissue damage: Torn ligaments, sprains, and muscle injuries may not seem as severe initially but can cause lasting pain and mobility issues.
  • Organ damage and internal bleeding: A pedestrian can suffer internal injuries that may not be immediately visible but are life-threatening without urgent medical care.

Who is at Fault in a Maryland Pedestrian Accident?

Maryland has one of the strictest negligence laws in the country. Under contributory negligence, if you’re even 1% at fault for a pedestrian accident, you can’t recover any compensation—not for medical bills, lost wages, or even pain and suffering. That means insurance companies and defense lawyers will do everything they can to put some of the blame on you, even if the driver was mostly at fault.

 

This is why having an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is so important. A good lawyer knows how to push back against unfair blame and prove that the driver—not you—was responsible for the crash.

 

If you’ve been hit by a car in Prince George’s County, contact us at Regan Zambri Long to get someone on your side who knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents in Prince George’s County

Do pedestrians always have the right of way?

According to Title 21, Subtitle 5 of the Maryland Code, pedestrians do have the right of way in certain situations, but it’s not always the case. More specifically:

  • Right of Way at Crosswalks – Pedestrians have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. Drivers must stop for pedestrians crossing within these areas.
  • Crossing Outside of Crosswalks – If a pedestrian crosses outside a marked or unmarked crosswalk, they must yield to approaching vehicles. Jaywalking is discouraged, as it puts pedestrians at greater risk.
  • Traffic Control Signals – Pedestrians must obey traffic signals and cross only when given the appropriate signal (e.g., “Walk” or a pedestrian green light).
  • Use of Sidewalks – When sidewalks are available, pedestrians must use them instead of walking on the roadway. If no sidewalk is present, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
  • Pedestrian Duties – Pedestrians cannot suddenly leave a curb and step into the path of an oncoming vehicle when it is too close to stop safely.

Even if pedestrians do not have the right of way, drivers must exercise due care to avoid hitting them, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.

How do I find a top Prince George’s County pedestrian accident lawyer near me?

Having a legal advocate by your side during an accident claim dramatically increases your chances of recovering maximum compensation for your injuries. A few things to consider when looking for the right attorney to represent you: success rate, accessibility, and compassion.

The Regan Zambri Long personal injury lawyers are highly skilled and have won millions for our clients. We deeply understand the challenges you and your family are facing in the aftermath of an accident, so we make ourselves available to you at all times. We not only aim to secure the highest amount of compensation possible, but also make sure you and your family feel seen and heard throughout the entire claims process.

How long do pedestrian crash claims take?

The time it takes to resolve a pedestrian accident claim in Maryland really depends on the details of the case. Some claims settle within a few months, while others can take over a year, especially if a lawsuit is involved.

One main factor is medical treatment. Before settling, it’s important to know the full extent of your injuries and how much care you’ll need. If you’re dealing with serious injuries that require ongoing treatment, the process may take longer.

The investigation phase also plays a role. Your lawyer will need time to gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to build a strong case. If the other side disputes who was at fault, this step can take even longer.

Negotiating with the insurance company is another hurdle. Some insurers are quick to offer fair settlements, while others drag their feet, hoping you’ll accept less than you deserve. If negotiations stall, your lawyer may need to file a lawsuit, which can stretch the process out for over a year.

If your case goes to trial, that adds even more time. A trial itself might only last a few days or weeks, but getting a court date can take months—or even years—because of legal backlogs.

Most pedestrian accident claims settle within 6 to 12 months, but more complicated cases can take longer. While the process can be frustrating, having an experienced Regan Zambri Long pedestrian accident lawyer on your side can help move things along and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

How long can I wait to file a personal injury lawsuit in Prince George’s County, Maryland?

Under Maryland Code: 

“A civil action at law shall be filed within three years from the date it accrues unless another provision of the Code provides a different period of time within which an action shall be commenced.”

However, there are important exceptions. If your claim involves a government entity, such as a city bus accident, you may need to file a notice of claim within one year. For injuries involving minors, the three-year period doesn’t begin until their 18th birthday, giving them until age 21 to file. And in medical malpractice cases, the deadline can vary depending on when the injury was discovered.

If you’re unsure about your deadline, it’s always best to talk to a Maryland personal injury lawyer sooner rather than later. Contact Regan Zambri Long for a free consultation with an experienced and dedicated pedestrian accident lawyer. Waiting too long could mean losing your chance to get the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Have you or your loved one sustained injuries in Washington DC, Maryland or Virginia? Regan Zambri Long PLLC has the best lawyers in the country to analyze your case and answer the questions you may have.

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