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Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best Salem pedestrian accident lawyers
Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Have you been hit by a reckless driver in Salem, Oregon? You might be feeling overwhelmed and hurt by the situation—both physically and mentally. But don’t worry; Goldberg & Loren’s personal injury attorneys are here to help you.
Our Salem pedestrian accident lawyers understand that the legal process can feel overwhelming and difficult. We take care of your pedestrian accident claim process so you can focus on recovery, rest, and rehabilitation.
We will help you get the compensation that you deserve. Be it the cost of treatment, compensation for physical or mental trauma, or medical attention. Call now at (971) 717-2450 for a free consultation!
Our Verdicts and Settlements
$350,000
Settlement
Our client was hit by a speeding vehicle while crossing a marked crosswalk.
March 2024
$420,000
Settlement
A 37-year-old pedestrian was injured when a city bus made an illegal turn and hit him.
June 2024
$275,000
Settlement
A Salem resident was walking her dog when she was hit by a distracted driver who was texting while driving.
September 2024
What Qualifies as a Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident is when a driver hits an individual on foot. So, if you’re walking down a pavement, a drunk or distracted driver hits you, it counts as a pedestrian accident. Does that mean you’re entitled to compensation? You are in many situations.
A distracted or drunk driver is usually the culprit in such accidents. From 2017 to 2021, around 31 pedestrians were hit by such drivers. Our firm helps many victims of negligent drivers, and we know how to assist you.
What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Salem?
Human error and recklessness are the primary causes of most pedestrian accidents. [2] Here are some of the common reasons pedestrian accidents happen in Salem:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers not paying attention cause a good percentage of the accidents in Salem. This includes drivers texting, being involved in conversations with other passengers, or taking their eyes off the road in any way.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence is a crime, and many drivers cause accidents while intoxicated. This includes driving drunk or under the influence of any recreational drugs.
- Dangerous Intersections: Pedestrian accidents can happen at controlled or uncontrolled intersections. Salem is home to twenty-five of these dangerous intersections, where speeding cars, or negligence leads to pedestrian injuries. [3]
- Poor Road Design: Bad road design and lackluster preventative measures are also a prime cause of pedestrian accidents in Salem. [4] In these cases, government entities can be held liable.
- Reckless Driving/Speeding: Reckless driving includes speeding, avoiding traffic signs, and being an aggressive driver. The risk of a pedestrian losing their life increases every 10 mph of speed after 23 mph. In other words, there is a 25% chance of death at 32 mph, a 50% chance of death at 42 mph, and 75% chance of a pedestrian death at 50 mph. [5]
Common Injuries Victims Among Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Salem
Injuries from a pedestrian accident can be severe. However, it depends on the speed and impact of the vehicle. The most common injuries suffered by victims of pedestrian accidents in Salem include the following:
- Back Injuries
- Bone Fractures
- Concussions
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Psychological Injuries
- Internal Injuries
- Lower Extremity Injuries
- Neck Injuries
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
If you have suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you might be liable for hefty compensations. Our pedestrian accident lawyers will fight to get you paid for your damages and suffering.
Seek Medical Assistance Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
Before you seek a pedestrian accident lawyer, it’s essential to get examined by a medical professional. Head to your nearest medical facility and get tested for your injuries. You should take the following actions after a pedestrian accident:
- Medical Attention: Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Your injuries may seem minor, but it is always wise to seek thorough medical care. So, head to the nearest hospital and get scanned, even if you feel fine.
- Photograph Accident & Injuries: You must photograph the three main things, including your injuries, damages to your property, and the scene of the accident. You should also photograph the other driver and their car to avoid any unjust claims.
- Exchange Information: Exchange information with the other driver. They are obliged by law to provide their insurance information. If they are underinsured or uninsured, they still must provide you with their contact information.
- Get Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, record their accounts and get their contact information. Their testimony might be needed to help you win the case.
- File a Report & Document the Case: Within 72 hours, most individuals involved in accidents must file an accident report by going to the Oregon DMV website. You can also request a copy of this report to add to the list of documents. Other things you need to document the case include medical bills, any other related expenses, and photographs of the injury/accident.
- Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Let the professionals handle the hassle after suffering a pedestrian accident. Our Salem pedestrian accident attorneys can simplify the process for you. We will manage everything, including your case, settlements, insurance claims, and any other legal action needed.
Table of Contents
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Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
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Our Verdicts and Settlements
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What Qualifies as a Pedestrian Accident?
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What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Salem?
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Common Injuries Victims Among Victims of Pedestrian Accidents in Salem
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Seek Medical Assistance Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
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What Makes You Eligible for a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Salem?
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What Makes You Ineligible for a Claim in a Salem Pedestrian Accident?
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Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Oregon
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Local Salem Resources
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What Clients Are Saying About Us - Client Reviews
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Why Choose Goldberg & Loren’s Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyers?
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FAQs
Our Salem Practice Areas
What Makes You Eligible for a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Salem?
Pedestrian accidents can cause severe physical injuries. However, it can also result in serious mental trauma, which might require therapy and counseling to recover. Therefore, a court can order economic and non-economic compensation, including but not limited to:
Non-Economic:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional Distress
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Economic:
- Medical bills
- Loss of wages
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Property damage (if applicable)
Our pedestrian accident lawyers can help determine the best course of action. If you have been in a pedestrian accident in Salem, contact us today for a free consultation.
What Makes You Ineligible for a Claim in a Salem Pedestrian Accident?
If you are hit by a car as a pedestrian, it doesn’t mean the driver is always at fault. The law for pedestrians clarifies that if you fall under these categories, you are ineligible for any claim: [6]
- You were texting or talking on a phone
- You were distracted, even if it was watching a bird or talking to someone else
- You failed to use marked crosswalks
- You darted or rushed into the ongoing traffic
- You did not follow the posted pedestrian signs
Simply put, if you were responsible for 50% or more of the accident, you are liable for the pedestrian accident. [6] Thus, you will not obtain any compensation for injuries or medical treatment. If unsure, our pedestrian accident lawyer will walk you through the rules to help you determine whether you have a case.
Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents in Oregon
The Statute of Limitations means the time frame in which you can sue a reckless driver for personal injuries. Here are some key Statutes of Limitations to remember for pedestrian accidents and injuries in Salem:
- Personal Injury Claims: You can claim 2 years from the date of the accident. Failing to commence within that period will make you ineligible for a claim. § 30.905 Our pedestrian injury attorneys ensure you get the legal proceedings going before the right time passes.
- Wrongful Death Claims: You have 3 years from the death of the individual to file an action. § 30.020
- Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Claim: If the driver who injured you is uninsured or underinsured, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.
Local Salem Resources
Salem Hospital
Knowing where the nearby hospitals is useful after a pedestrian accident. Whether it’s a loved one who needs to reach one quickly, or if you do – here is a client-recommended choice in the Salem area:
- Salem Hospital (Level II Trauma Center)
890 Oak St SE Bldg A
Salem, OR 97301
1-800-876-1718
Salem Chiropractor
- The Spine Clinic
1281 Lancaster Dr. NE
Salem, OR 97301
(503) 362-5555
*Note: We do not endorse the aforementioned clinics, practices, etc. This is a recommendation based on client references and experiences.
What Clients Are Saying About Us – Client Reviews
Why Choose Goldberg & Loren’s Salem Pedestrian Accident Lawyers?
We know how pedestrian accidents take a toll on you, both physically and mentally. Our Salem pedestrian accident lawyers understand this, and we ensure the best outcome for you. We thoroughly grasp how wearing it all can be.
It can be particularly challenging when you are pursuing fair compensation for your injuries, while recovering. We will also provide detailed and extensive legal assistance, guiding you through each step. So, call us today and book a free consultation with our Salem pedestrian accident attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Seeking medical attention is the first and the most important thing to do immediately after an accident. A pedestrian accident, particularly caused by a car collision, can cause a lot of internal and external injuries. So, you should always call 911 first.
Start by documenting the scene and gathering evidence, such as photographing the vehicle, injuries, etc. Besides, always ask for the contact info of the other party involved. Lastly, try to include witness accounts and statements.
Oregon’s Statute of Limitation is 2 years, and you can file a lawsuit 2 years from the date of the accident. The lawsuit will fall under a “personal injury” category. However, if the collision/accident resulted in death, the time limit is 3 years.
You’re entitled to damages depending on the injuries and damages caused by the pedestrian accident. This should cover not only medical expenses, but also lost wages, pain and suffering, rehab costs, and property damage.
If you were responsible or partially at fault, the compensation percentage may vary. However, if you were responsible for 50% or less of the accident, you are still entitled to recover damages.
Sources:
[1] Moore, M. (2024, August 12). As traffic fatalities climb in Salem, new draft plan highlights public safety concerns. Salem Reporter. https://www.salemreporter.com/2024/08/12/as-traffic-fatalities-climb-in-salem-new-draft-plan-highlights-public-safety-concerns/
[2] Pedestrian injuries & fatalities. (2022, November 4). ASU Center for Problem-Oriented Policing. https://popcenter.asu.edu/content/pedestrian-injuries-fatalities-0
[3] 25 intersections in the Salem area with the most crashes – Google My Maps. (n.d.). Google My Maps. https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed
[4] Pedestrian Safety Study. (2018). City of Salem. https://www.cityofsalem.net/government/shaping-salem-s-future/reports-studies/pedestrian-safety-study
[5] Tefft, B. C. (2018, October 11). Impact Speed and a Pedestrian’s Risk of Severe Injury or Death – AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety -. https://aaafoundation.org/impact-speed-pedestrians-risk-severe-injury-death/
[6] ORS 31.600 – Contributory negligence not bar to recovery. (n.d.). https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_31.600
We fight hard for our clients who have been injured due to pedestrian accidents. Our Salem pedestrian accident lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
George Goldberg
Senior Partner
We Represent Pedestrian Accident Victims in the Following Cities and Communities Near Salem, Oregon.
- Keizer, OR
- Hayesville, OR
- Dallas, OR
- Tigard, OR
- Woodburn, OR
- Albany, OR
- Newberg, OR
- West Linn, OR
- Canby, OR
- Wilsonville, OR
- Corvallis, OR
- Lebanon, OR
- Sherwood, OR
- Tualatin, OR
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