Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Brandywine, MD

Brandywine Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Pedestrian Accident Claims in Brandywine, MD

Pedestrians have virtually no protection against the size and weight of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles. That’s why a single impact can cause catastrophic injuries or even death. Drivers in Brandywine have a legal duty to pay attention, slow down, and yield the right of way when pedestrians are present—especially near intersections, crosswalks, and busy corridors connecting to Route 301 and surrounding Prince George’s County roadways.

If you or someone you love was hit by a negligent motorist, you may be entitled to financial compensation—and Farmer & Klopfer can help. Our pedestrian accident attorneys have been fighting for victims of negligence since 1978. We have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients and families across Southern Maryland, helping them access treatment, stabilize their finances, and move forward.

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Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

A pedestrian accident happens when a person on foot is struck by a vehicle. Because the human body can’t absorb the force of an impact like a vehicle can, these crashes often cause severe injuries and long recoveries.

Common causes of pedestrian accidents in Brandywine include:

• Distracted driving: Texting, GPS use, or looking away for “just a second” can be enough to miss a pedestrian.
• Speeding: Higher speeds reduce reaction time and greatly increase the severity of injuries.
• Failure to yield: Drivers who roll through turns or ignore crosswalks frequently cause pedestrian crashes.
• Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug impairment makes it harder to see pedestrians and respond safely.
• Poor visibility: Nighttime, rain, glare, or blocked sightlines can contribute—especially if drivers aren’t cautious.
• Running lights or stop signs: Signal violations are a major risk at intersections and crosswalks.
• Backing accidents: Drivers backing out of driveways, parking lots, or businesses may not see pedestrians.
• Drowsy or fatigued driving: Slower reactions and poor judgment can lead to devastating mistakes.
• Aggressive driving: Unsafe lane changes and rushing through traffic increases pedestrian risk.
• Unsafe roadway design: Missing sidewalks, limited crosswalks, or confusing intersections can raise crash risk.

Do Pedestrians Always Have the Right of Way in Maryland?

Maryland law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in many situations, and drivers must use “due care” to avoid collisions. That includes slowing down when pedestrians are present and avoiding actions that put people on foot at risk.

In general, motorists must yield the right of way to pedestrians when:

• A pedestrian is crossing within a marked or unmarked crosswalk (including at intersections)
• Another vehicle has stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross (drivers cannot pass a vehicle stopped for a pedestrian)
• Turning at intersections, including right turns on red where permitted

Drivers also should not block crosswalks and must exercise extra caution near pedestrians who appear confused, disoriented, impaired, or otherwise vulnerable.

That said, pedestrians are not automatically protected in every scenario. If a person crosses outside of a marked or unmarked crosswalk—especially between intersections controlled by traffic signals—they may be required to yield to vehicles. Pedestrians must also obey “don’t walk” signals and avoid crossing diagonally unless signage permits it.

Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident in Brandywine?

Liability depends on what happened and who acted negligently. In many cases, the driver is responsible—but other parties may share liability depending on the facts.

• Driver liability: Speeding, distraction, impairment, failure to yield, and traffic violations often support fault.
• Pedestrian liability: Crossing unlawfully or stepping into traffic unexpectedly may be raised as a defense.
• Vehicle owner liability: In some situations, the owner may be responsible (for example, negligent entrustment).
• Government liability: Dangerous roadway conditions, missing signage, or poor design may contribute in certain claims.
• Manufacturer liability: If a defect (such as brakes) contributed, a product claim may be possible.

Determining liability in a pedestrian crash often requires a thorough investigation. Our team gathers evidence, identifies responsible parties, and builds a case aimed at maximizing your recovery.

Common Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian crashes frequently lead to catastrophic injuries and fatal injuries. Even at relatively low speeds, a vehicle can cause serious harm.

Common pedestrian accident injuries include:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Cuts, scrapes, and abrasions
• Road rash and friction burns
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
• Soft tissue injuries
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Amputation or loss of limb

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident

If you were hit and have not sought medical attention, do so immediately. Some injuries are not obvious right away, and prompt diagnosis can protect both your health and your claim. If police did not respond at the scene, report the incident as soon as possible so an official report is created.

If you can, preserve evidence. Keep photos of the scene and your injuries, collect witness information, and write down what you remember while details are fresh. Evidence and memories can fade quickly.

It’s also wise to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney before giving a recorded statement or signing paperwork from an insurer. Insurance companies often dispute claims or attempt to minimize payouts. An attorney can manage communications, gather additional evidence, work with experts, and build a strong case for compensation.

At Farmer & Klopfer, we offer free consultations and do not collect attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Why Hire a Pedestrian Accident Attorney?

Recovering from a pedestrian crash can be physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelming. An experienced attorney can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Just as importantly, your attorney can handle the legal details while you focus on healing. Our Brandywine pedestrian accident attorneys are known for aggressive advocacy and a proven record of results in serious injury cases. We are ready to fight for you, too.

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Brandywine Pedestrian Accident FAQ

What should I do after being hit by a car in Brandywine, MD?

If you were hit by a car in Brandywine, seek immediate medical attention—even if you believe your injuries are minor. Call 911 to report the accident and ensure a police report is created. If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved. Collect contact information from the driver and any witnesses. Before speaking with the insurance company, contact a Brandywine pedestrian accident attorney to protect your rights.

How much is a pedestrian accident claim worth in Maryland?

The value of a pedestrian accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs. Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or fractures typically result in higher settlement values. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Brandywine can evaluate your case and estimate potential compensation.

Who is at fault in a pedestrian accident in Prince George’s County?

Fault in a pedestrian accident often depends on whether the driver failed to yield, was speeding, distracted, impaired, or otherwise negligent. However, Maryland follows strict contributory negligence rules, meaning if a pedestrian is found even partially at fault, recovery could be barred. This makes it especially important to work with a knowledgeable Brandywine pedestrian accident attorney who can build a strong case and defend against blame-shifting tactics.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Maryland?

In most cases, Maryland law provides a three-year statute of limitations from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Speaking with a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible helps preserve evidence and protect your claim.

Can I recover compensation if the driver fled the scene?

Yes, you may still have options. If the driver committed a hit-and-run, you may be able to pursue compensation through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage under your own auto insurance policy or a household member’s policy. A Brandywine pedestrian accident attorney can review your insurance coverage and explain your legal options.

What damages can I recover after a pedestrian accident?

Victims of pedestrian accidents in Brandywine may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, future medical treatment, lost income, loss of earning capacity, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and permanent disability. In fatal cases, families may pursue a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses and loss of financial support.

Do I need a pedestrian accident lawyer for my claim?

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny valid pedestrian accident claims. Hiring an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Brandywine ensures that your case is properly investigated, evidence is preserved, and negotiations are handled aggressively. Your attorney can also represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

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