Columbia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents often leave victims facing devastating injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and long recovery periods. Unlike drivers and passengers in motor vehicles, pedestrians have no protection against the force of an impact, which makes these types of accidents especially dangerous. If you or a loved one has been injured while walking in Columbia, SC, Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC is here to fight for your rights. An experienced Columbia pedestrian accident attorney from our firm can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

To scheduel a free consultation, contact us today at (803) 599-2207.

What is a Pedestrian Accident?

A pedestrian accident occurs when a person traveling on foot, in a crosswalk, on a sidewalk, or in another pedestrian area is struck by a vehicle such as a car, truck, or motorcycle. These accidents often result in serious injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and bruising
• Wrongful death in the most tragic cases

Because pedestrians are so vulnerable, even a low-speed collision can cause life-changing harm. Victims frequently require emergency care, ongoing medical treatment, and time away from work, making it essential to pursue fair compensation through an attorney.

South Carolina Pedestrian Laws

South Carolina has specific laws designed to protect pedestrians and regulate how drivers must act in areas where people are walking. Some of the most important include:

• Right-of-Way in Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within marked crosswalks when traffic signals permit them to cross.
• Obeying Traffic Signals: Pedestrians must follow traffic control devices such as “Walk” or “Don’t Walk” signals.
• Use of Sidewalks: If a sidewalk is available, pedestrians are required to use it. When no sidewalk exists, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
• Prohibition Against Sudden Entry: Pedestrians may not suddenly leave a curb or other safe area and step into the path of an oncoming vehicle.

If a driver fails to follow these rules—or if a pedestrian is accused of not following the law—liability can become a contested issue. A skilled Columbia pedestrian accident attorney can help clarify how these laws apply to your case.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere—busy intersections, parking lots, or even quiet residential neighborhoods. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting GPS devices may fail to notice pedestrians.
• Failure to Yield: Many collisions occur when drivers fail to stop at crosswalks or ignore traffic signals.
• Speeding: High speeds reduce a driver’s reaction time and increase the severity of injuries when accidents occur.
• Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs significantly impair a driver’s ability to react and make sound decisions.
• Poor Visibility: Nighttime driving, bad weather, or inadequate street lighting often contribute to pedestrian accidents.
• Backing-Up Accidents: Drivers in parking lots or driveways sometimes fail to check their surroundings before reversing.

Understanding what caused the accident is a critical first step in proving liability and pursuing compensation.

Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?

Liability in a pedestrian accident depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Potentially responsible parties include:

• Drivers: If a motorist was speeding, distracted, intoxicated, or failed to yield, they can be held liable for the collision.
• Pedestrians: In some cases, a pedestrian may share partial responsibility if they crossed against a signal or entered the roadway unexpectedly.
• Municipalities: If poor road design, inadequate signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals contributed to the accident, a city or state agency may bear liability.
• Property Owners: In some situations, private property owners may be responsible if unsafe conditions in parking lots or driveways caused the accident.

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault—so long as your share of fault is less than 51%. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Recovering Compensation

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Columbia, you may be entitled to recover compensation for a wide range of losses, including:

• Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
• Lost wages: Compensation for income lost during recovery, as well as reduced earning capacity in the future.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement: Damages for life-changing injuries that alter your ability to work or enjoy daily activities.
• Wrongful death damages: In cases involving fatalities, surviving family members may recover funeral costs, lost financial support, and loss of companionship.

An experienced Columbia pedestrian accident attorney from Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf or represent you in court if necessary.

Pedestrian Accident FAQs

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in South Carolina?

South Carolina law generally gives you three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, shorter deadlines may apply if a government entity is involved.

What if the driver doesn’t have insurance?

You may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or other available legal avenues.

Do I need an attorney if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

Yes. Insurance companies often try to settle for far less than what your claim is worth. An attorney can evaluate your damages and ensure you do not accept an unfair offer.

What if I was partially at fault?

South Carolina’s comparative negligence system allows you to recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault. Your compensation will simply be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility.

How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident attorney?

At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you owe us nothing unless we win compensation for you.

Contact a Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Columbia, SC, don’t face the insurance companies and legal system alone. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our dedicated attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and helping you secure the maximum compensation available.

Call (803) 599-2207 or contact us online today for a free consultation with an experienced Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer who will fight for you every step of the way.