Manchester Pedestrian Accident Attorney
When you’re walking through Manchester’s busy streets and become injured in a pedestrian accident, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and secure fair compensation. At Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira, our dedicated Manchester pedestrian accident attorneys understand the devastating impact these incidents can have on victims and their families. We provide compassionate, aggressive representation for pedestrians who have been struck by vehicles, helping them navigate the complex legal process while they focus on recovery.
Our law firm has deep roots in the Manchester community and extensive experience handling pedestrian accident cases throughout New Hampshire. We know the dangerous intersections, high-traffic areas, and common locations where these accidents occur. From Elm Street’s bustling downtown corridor to the busy intersections near the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, our Manchester pedestrian accident attorney team has successfully represented clients injured in all types of pedestrian collisions.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Manchester
Pedestrian accidents in Manchester occur for various reasons, often involving driver negligence or dangerous road conditions. Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes, with motorists texting, talking on phones, or engaging with in-vehicle entertainment systems while navigating Manchester’s streets. Speeding is another significant factor, particularly on major thoroughfares like Route 101, Route 293, and South Willow Street, where drivers may exceed posted limits and have insufficient time to react to pedestrians.
Impaired driving contributes to many serious pedestrian accidents, especially during evening hours and weekends when Manchester’s nightlife district sees increased foot traffic. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making them particularly dangerous to pedestrians crossing streets or walking along roadways.
Failure to yield right-of-way at crosswalks and intersections causes numerous pedestrian injuries annually. Many drivers fail to come to complete stops at stop signs or rush through yellow lights, putting pedestrians at risk. Weather conditions unique to New Hampshire, including snow, ice, and reduced visibility during winter months, also contribute to pedestrian accidents when drivers fail to adjust their driving behavior appropriately.
Poor road design and inadequate lighting create hazardous conditions for pedestrians, particularly in areas undergoing construction or lacking proper sidewalks and crosswalk markings. Manchester’s ongoing development and road improvement projects sometimes create temporary dangerous conditions for pedestrians navigating around construction zones.
Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection pedestrians have when struck by vehicles. Traumatic brain injuries are common and can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage requiring long-term care and rehabilitation. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can have lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and quality of life.
Spinal cord injuries frequently occur in pedestrian accidents, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. These life-altering injuries require extensive medical treatment, adaptive equipment, and home modifications, creating substantial financial burdens for victims and their families.
Broken bones and fractures are typical in pedestrian collisions, particularly affecting the legs, arms, pelvis, and ribs. Multiple fractures often require surgical intervention, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods, preventing victims from returning to work or normal activities for months.
Internal injuries, including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and abdominal trauma, can be life-threatening and require immediate emergency medical intervention. These injuries may not be visible externally but can cause serious complications and require ongoing medical monitoring.
Soft tissue injuries, cuts, bruises, and road rash may seem minor compared to other injuries but can cause significant pain, scarring, and emotional trauma. Recovery from these injuries often involves wound care, physical therapy, and sometimes plastic surgery to address permanent scarring.
Manchester Neighborhoods We Serve
Our pedestrian accident attorneys serve clients throughout Manchester and surrounding areas, including:
- Downtown Manchester
- West Side
- East Side
- North End
- South End
- Kalivas Union
- Youngsville
- Piscataquog
- Hallsville
- Bakersville
- McGregorville
- Rimmon Heights
- Cohas Brook
- Wellington Hill
- Pine Island Park
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation depending on the circumstances of their case and the extent of their injuries. Medical expenses typically represent the largest component of damages, including emergency room treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, physician visits, prescription medications, and rehabilitation services. Future medical costs must also be considered, particularly for victims with permanent disabilities or ongoing treatment needs.
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity affect many pedestrian accident victims who cannot return to work immediately or may never fully recover their pre-accident earning abilities. Our attorneys work with economic experts to calculate both current lost income and future earning potential to ensure clients receive fair compensation.
Pain and suffering damages address the physical discomfort, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life experienced by pedestrian accident victims. These non-economic damages can be substantial, particularly in cases involving permanent disabilities or disfigurement.
Property damage compensation covers personal items damaged in the accident, such as clothing, electronics, or other belongings. While typically less significant than other damages, these costs should be included in any settlement or judgment.
New Hampshire Pedestrian Laws and Rights
New Hampshire law provides specific protections for pedestrians and establishes clear rules governing pedestrian and vehicle interactions. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks and at intersections, even when crosswalks are not marked. Pedestrians have the right-of-way when crossing streets at intersections with traffic signals showing walk signals.
However, pedestrians also have responsibilities under New Hampshire law. They must use sidewalks when available and cross streets at designated crosswalks when present. Pedestrians should not suddenly enter roadways in front of oncoming traffic when drivers cannot reasonably stop.
New Hampshire follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning pedestrian accident victims can still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault for the accident, as long as their fault does not exceed fifty percent. This rule ensures that pedestrians who may have contributed to their accidents can still seek compensation for their injuries.
The Legal Process for Pedestrian Accident Cases
Pedestrian accident cases typically begin with a thorough investigation of the accident scene, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and expert accident reconstruction analysis. Our attorneys work quickly to preserve crucial evidence before it disappears or becomes unavailable.
Insurance companies often attempt to settle pedestrian accident cases quickly and for less than their true value. Our experienced attorneys handle all communications with insurance adjusters and work to negotiate fair settlements that fully compensate our clients for their injuries and losses.
When insurance companies refuse to offer reasonable settlements, we are prepared to take cases to trial. Our trial attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and the resources necessary to present compelling cases to juries, including expert witnesses, medical professionals, and accident reconstruction specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident?
Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some injuries may not be apparent initially. If possible, call police to report the accident and ensure an official report is filed. Gather information from the driver, including insurance details and contact information. Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur.
How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents. This means you must file your lawsuit within three years of the accident date. However, it’s important to contact an attorney much sooner to preserve evidence and protect your rights throughout the process.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, under New Hampshire’s modified comparative negligence law, you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault, as long as your percentage of fault is fifty percent or less. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still receive damages for your injuries.
What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance?
Uninsured motorist coverage through your own auto insurance policy may provide compensation for your injuries. Additionally, other sources of compensation may be available depending on the circumstances of your accident, such as homeowner’s insurance or other liable parties.
Contact Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Manchester, don’t wait to seek legal representation. The experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at Manning Zimmerman & Oliveira are ready to fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your case. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after your pedestrian accident.
