In Lakewood, New Jersey, pedestrian accidents come in various forms, from crosswalk incidents to sidewalk collisions. These accidents can lead to devastating consequences, causing injuries or even wrongful deaths.
As legal advocates, our Lakewood pedestrian accident lawyers are here to navigate the complexities of these cases, offering support to those seeking justice and compensation after a pedestrian accident.
People rely on walking for health, daily commutes, or exploring the walkable neighborhoods and cities in our vibrant community. While walking brings numerous benefits, unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can lead to catastrophic consequences, resulting in severe injuries and, tragically, wrongful deaths.
Litigating pedestrian accidents can be complicated. Our local lawyers can provide support for those affected by these unfortunate events.
Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 to talk to our legal team.
Why Choose a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer from Rothenberg Law Firm?
Choosing a pedestrian accident attorney from Rothenberg Law Firm in Lakewood, New Jersey, offers you a distinct advantage. Our lawyers have extensive experience in pedestrian accident cases, bringing a wealth of knowledge to navigate the complexities of these incidents.
We have a deep understanding of Lakewood and its unique dynamics. Our lawyers are well-versed in local laws, ensuring tailored and effective representation.
We approach each case with empathy, understanding the emotional toll of pedestrian accidents. When you choose us, you gain a legal team committed to your case. We invest the time and effort needed to build a strong case on your behalf. To better understand your situation, we offer a free consultation, providing an opportunity for you to discuss your case with our experienced lawyers.
Trust The Rothenberg Law Firm to be your advocate in Lakewood, offering professional, compassionate, and effective legal representation for pedestrian accident cases. Contact form today.
Our Lakewood, New Jersey, Office
The dedicated team of Lakewood personal injury attorneys at Rothenberg Law Firm LLP are dedicated to your case. With deep roots in Lakewood, we take pride in our legacy of assisting countless people throughout the county.
Our Lakewood, New Jersey, office is located just off Avenue of the States at 300 Boulevard of the Americas, Suite 100, Lakewood, NJ 08701. Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form for your free consultation.
Lakewood Pedestrian Injury and Fatality Statistics
Lakewood is located along the Jersey Shore in the south-central portion of New Jersey, and the southernmost county in the New York metropolitan area. Lakewood, New Jersey, is located in Ocean County. The county borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east and is the state’s largest county in total area.
There were 41 fatal traffic accidents in the Lakewood area in the last year where statistics were collected, and 44 total traffic fatalities. Pedestrians accounted for seven of those traffic deaths in the county.
The Lakewood Police Department reported the results of a four-year traffic study that revealed there were 31,587 pedestrians and bicyclists involved in crashes in the State of New Jersey during the recording period. Of that number, there were 2,894 fatalities. In Lakewood Township, the police counted 574 pedestrians or bicycle operators involved in crashes, with 32 fatalities.
The New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety reports there were 589 total crashes in the state, with 621 total fatalities for the year.
Causes for Pedestrian Accidents and Fatalities in Lakewood, NJ
The New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety reports that New Jersey sees a higher-than-average number of pedestrian injury crashes and fatalities when compared to the national statistics.
Several factors contribute to the disproportionate number of pedestrian injury crashes and fatalities in New Jersey compared to the national average:
- Population Density: New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the U.S., leading to increased pedestrian traffic and interactions with vehicles.
- Urban Infrastructure: Many areas in New Jersey, especially around cities like Lakewood, have complex urban infrastructure, with high traffic volumes, numerous intersections, and diverse transportation modes, increasing the risk of accidents.
- High Traffic Areas: The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas results in heavy traffic flow and congestion, heightening the likelihood of pedestrian accidents.
- Mixed Land Use: Mixed land use, combining residential, commercial, and industrial zones, may lead to more interactions between pedestrians and vehicles, increasing the potential for accidents.
Other Common Causes of Crashes Involving Pedestrians
- Road Design and Condition: Poorly designed or maintained roads, lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and inadequate crosswalks can contribute to unsafe conditions for pedestrians.
- Vehicle Speeds: High vehicle speeds, especially in busy urban areas and along major roadways, can lead to severe accidents when pedestrians are involved. Excessive speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and the ability to stop quickly, making it more challenging to avoid collisions with pedestrians in time.
- Distracted Driving: The prevalence of mobile devices and other distractions contributes to drivers taking their attention away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents involving pedestrians.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers not yielding the right of way to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks and intersections, is a common cause of accidents. Failure to adhere to traffic rules can lead to severe consequences for pedestrians.
Addressing these factors requires a comprehensive approach involving urban planning, infrastructure improvements, public awareness campaigns, and enforcement of traffic laws to enhance pedestrian safety in Lakewood and throughout the state.
Establishing Liability in Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Cases
Determining liability is a critical aspect of pedestrian accident cases.
In Lakewood, New Jersey, several factors contribute to establishing fault for the incident:
- Traffic Violations: Identifying if the driver committed any traffic violations, such as speeding, running red lights, or failing to yield, can help establish liability.
- Pedestrian Right of Way: Understanding whether the pedestrian had the right of way, particularly in crosswalks and designated walking areas, is crucial for determining liability.
- Witness Statements: Eyewitness accounts can provide valuable perspectives on the sequence of events, helping to establish who was at fault in the pedestrian accident.
- Surveillance Footage: Video footage from nearby surveillance cameras can serve as objective evidence, capturing the actions of both the pedestrian and the driver leading up to the accident.
- Driver Distraction: Proving that the driver was distracted, such as by phone use or other distractions, can strongly support the pedestrian’s case.
- Road Conditions: Lawyers can examine whether poor road conditions played a role, including issues like inadequate signage or poorly maintained walkways.
- Police Reports: Official police reports detailing the circumstances of the accident, including any citations issued, are instrumental in establishing liability.
Navigating the intricacies of liability in pedestrian accidents requires legal skill. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Lakewood, Rothenberg Law Firm is here to provide compassionate and knowledgeable legal support in establishing liability and seeking fair compensation.
New Jersey Laws Affecting Pedestrian Accidents
Lakewood drivers are subject to a new Safe Passing Law that recently took effect in New Jersey. The Safe Passing Law outlined in New Jersey Statute 39:4-36 requires drivers to approach and pass vulnerable users – including pedestrians – with due caution. This means slowing down and giving pedestrians a wide berth when passing. Specific items outlined in the law state that drivers must:
- Follow no passing and speed limit laws.
- Change lanes if possible, for added safety.
On Single-Lane Roads:
- Allow a minimum four-foot safety clearance when passing.
- If four feet isn’t possible:
- Slow down to 25 miles per hour.
- Be ready to stop until safe passage is available.
In addition to the Safe Passing Law, Lakewood drivers are bound by the state’s Stop and Stay Stopped Law. This law, also outlined in New Jersey Statute 39:4-36, requires motorists to bring their vehicles to a complete stop at marked crosswalks. This isn’t as simple as it sounds. There are several caveats.
The law states that drivers must not only stop and remain stopped when a pedestrian is in the crosswalk but also:
- When pedestrians are crossing in a crosswalk adjacent to where the motorist is turning right on either a red traffic signal, a stop sign, or a yield sign.
- When a pedestrian is walking in one lane of their half of the roadway.
This law also stipulates that drivers may not overtake or pass a vehicle that is stopped for a pedestrian who is crossing the street and must yield to pedestrians even at unmarked crossings at uncontrolled intersections. They are also required to exercise due care for the safety of any pedestrians in the roadway.
All of this boils down to the fact that pedestrians are usually protected by the law in most crashes, especially those that result in injuries. Talk to a Lakewood pedestrian accident attorney who knows the local and state laws that govern these claims. Our local lawyers can investigate the unique circumstances of your crash to determine who is liable and secure you the compensation you need for your recovery.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim for a Pedestrian Accident in Lakewood?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim for a pedestrian injury is generally two years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to initiate the legal process within this timeframe, as failing to do so may result in the forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.
However, exceptions and nuances may apply based on the specific circumstances of the case. To ensure accurate information and timely filing, it’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer.
Our team can provide guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring you meet all necessary deadlines and have the best chance of securing fair compensation for your pedestrian injury.
How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your personal injury claim involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, from medical expenses to the impact on your daily life.
Accidents involving pedestrians also unfortunately often result in fatalities. An experienced attorney can also help you recover damages for a wrongful death claim. Damages provide compensation to help you focus on your recovery, or to ease the burden of your losses.
Types of compensation may include:
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and resulting injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the impact of injuries on the individual’s quality of life and daily activities.
- Property Damages: Coverage for the repair or replacement of personal property damaged in the accident.
Compensation for Wrongful Death Claims
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Coverage for the costs associated with laying the deceased to rest.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the loss on the relationship between the surviving family members and the deceased.
- Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the economic contributions the deceased would have made to the family.
Your lawyer will assess the specifics of your case and pursue comprehensive compensation.
Contact Rothenberg Law Firm for Your Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Claim
Allen L. Rothenberg, Esq., Lakewood Pedestrian Accident Attorney
If you’ve experienced a pedestrian accident in Lakewood, New Jersey, don’t navigate the legal complexities alone. Contact Rothenberg Law Firm today, and let us be your advocates in pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Our experienced team of lawyers in Lakewood is well-versed in pedestrian accident cases, offering compassionate support and dedicated representation throughout the process.
Time is of the essence; delays can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. Schedule a free consultation with The Rothenberg Law Firm to discuss the specifics of your case. We’ll provide a thorough assessment, outline your legal options, and guide you through the steps needed to secure fair compensation for your injuries.
Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging time on your own—reach out to us today and let us stand by your side in your Lakewood pedestrian accident claim.
Call our Lakewood office at (800) 624-8888 or fill out our online Contact form to schedule your free consultation.
