Crossing the street in a marked crosswalk should be one of the safest places for a pedestrian to cross. But it only takes one driver not paying attention for that to change in seconds.
Our client, S.A., was crossing the street at a corner in Washington, D.C., just a few blocks from home, when a driver turning through the intersection hit her in the crosswalk.
The driver said he did not see her. But it was a clear, sunny day. S.A. was wearing bright clothing, and there was no traffic or construction blocking the driver’s view.
Fortunately, the driver had slowed down to make the turn before hitting her. Even so, S.A. was taken to the hospital and needed treatment for orthopedic injuries.
She was in great physical shape before the accident, which helped with her recovery, but she still had to spend time recuperating and going through rehabilitation. During that time, she could not return to her work as an engineer.
The accident could have been much worse. The driver’s insurance company ultimately agreed to a settlement that helped compensate S.A. for what she went through, including the time she was unable to work while recovering.
For pedestrians and cyclists, a driver saying “I didn’t see you” does not undo the harm caused by a crash. Drivers have a responsibility to pay attention to the people around them.
If you were seriously hurt by a driver in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia, give our team at Donahoe Kearney a call. We will listen, answer your questions, and see how we can help.