Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on Texas roads. According to TxDOT, pedestrians are involved in about 1% of traffic crashes in Texas but account for 19% of roadway deaths. In 2024, Texas reported 773 pedestrian deaths and 1,454 serious injuries in pedestrian-involved crashes. Nationally, the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) projects 7,318 pedestrian deaths in 2023 across the United States.
When a pedestrian is hit, injuries are often severe—requiring emergency treatment, surgery, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work. If you or a loved one was struck by a vehicle, understanding your legal options early can protect both your health and your case.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Crashes
Pedestrian accidents often involve preventable driver behavior, including:
- Failure to yield while turning or at crosswalks
- Distracted driving
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Impaired driving
- Poor visibility conditions (nighttime or bad weather)
Who May Be Responsible
Liability depends on the facts of the case, but responsible parties may include:
- The driver who struck the pedestrian
- An employer (if the driver was working at the time)
- A commercial vehicle company
- Other parties whose negligence contributed to the collision
Compensation That May Be Available
A pedestrian injury claim may involve damages such as:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement or physical impairment
- Wrongful death damages (when a family member is killed)
Key Texas Laws That Can Affect a Pedestrian Injury Case
Texas law requires drivers to stop and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks under specific conditions. If a crash results in injury or death, drivers generally have legal duties to stop, provide aid if necessary, and remain at the scene to comply with Texas law.
Texas also follows a proportionate responsibility rule. In many cases, an injured person cannot recover damages if they are found more than 50% responsible for the incident.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you are able, take the following steps to protect your health and your claim:
- Call 911 and seek medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Get the driver’s information and document the vehicle and accident scene.
- Take photos or videos and collect witness names and contact information.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before legal advice.
- Contact a lawyer quickly to preserve evidence and protect deadlines.
How Ace Law Can Help
Pedestrian injury cases move quickly, and insurance companies often begin investigating immediately. Our role is to protect your rights, investigate the incident, preserve evidence, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Free Consultation
Call Kevin Acevedo now at 713-344-1833
Ace Law
2900 Woodridge Dr
Houston, Texas 77087
www.acelawtx.com
Tel: 713-344-1833
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice regarding your situation, consult a qualified attorney.
