Bentonville Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

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Bentonville Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Whether you’re crossing a busy Bentonville street outside the Bentonville Square or walking through the city’s expanding network of trails and neighborhoods, walking in Bentonville should be safe. Sadly, pedestrian accidents happen all too often. The leading causes of pedestrian accidents typically include distracted driving and reckless driving. If you were injured in an accident, a Bentonville pedestrian accident lawyer can help you receive compensation.

About The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC

Arkansas is home to Geoffrey Davis Kearney, a second-generation family law practitioner in the state. Geoffrey was born and raised in Pine Bluff, where his grandfather was the first Chancellor of UAPB, and his father practiced law for 30+ years before becoming a judge.

Geoffrey’s legal career has led him from federal clerkships in Illinois to appellate experience in Little Rock. Now that he’s back home, Geoffrey works with clients throughout Arkansas who need the personal attention he and his team offer, whether they have a personal injury, an insurance claim, or other legal matters.

Bentonville Slip and Fall Lawyer

Call Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC today at 870-376-3068 for your Free Consultation!

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Understanding Pedestrian Laws

Arkansas pedestrian accident laws are designed to protect those on foot, but understanding your rights can be complicated after an accident. Pedestrian safety is regulated by several ordinances in Bentonville. Arkansas Code § 27-51-1202 mandates that vehicle drivers yield the right-of-way to pedestrians at intersections during times when traffic signals are absent or non-operational.

Pedestrians aren’t the only ones who need to follow traffic laws, however. Pedestrians crossing streets need to use designated crosswalks and intersections. Drivers should be aware of pedestrians and exercise due care to avoid collisions on roadways. They must sound their horn as needed while taking special precautions for any children or confused or incapacitated individuals present on the roadways.

In short, people in Bentonville need to remember to keep an eye out for each other. Pedestrians should do their part by using marked crosswalks and intersections when crossing streets and being aware of their surroundings. Drivers, on the other hand, need to remain vigilant and yield to pedestrians as necessary to avoid collisions.

Pedestrian fatalities in traffic crashes dropped to 7,314 in 2023, which represents a 3.7 percent reduction from the 7,593 deaths recorded in 2022. The number of pedestrians injured in traffic crashes increased to 68,244 in 2023, up from 67,341 in 2022, representing a 1.3 percent rise.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons and may result in a range of injuries. The severity of pedestrian accidents increases with the size of vehicles or those traveling at higher speeds. Some of the most common injuries pedestrians suffer are:

Fractured bones
Spinal cord damage
Paralysis
Head and brain trauma
Concussions
Cuts and bruises
Neck injuries
Wrongful death

Pedestrian accident cases are all unique. The severity of the injuries can depend on the speed of the vehicle, the location of the impact, and the age and health of the victim. Our Bentonville personal injury attorneys collaborate with medical professionals to accurately document every injury, enabling us to pursue complete and fair compensation.

What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident

When you are involved in a pedestrian accident, your conduct after the crash can affect your claim. Be sure to get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not believe you have been seriously injured. Gather the driver’s information and contact information for witnesses.

Take photos of the vehicle and your injuries. Report the crash to the police and your insurance company, but do not discuss the accident on social media. The sooner you hire a pedestrian accident lawyer, the better. A Bentonville pedestrian accident attorney can protect your rights and collect relevant evidence.

Why Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?

Pedestrian accidents can be extremely serious, leading to catastrophic injuries, complicated medical bills, and lasting financial consequences. At The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney PLLC, we understand the unique challenges associated with these cases and have dedicated significant time and energy to helping our clients obtain the compensation they deserve.

We are familiar with the local Bentonville District Court and are prepared to litigate your case if the need arises. Don’t leave your future in the hands of an inexperienced attorney. Contact our law office today for a consultation.

FAQs

Q: How Long Does It Take to Settle a Pedestrian Accident?

A: The time to settle a pedestrian accident depends on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the negotiations with the insurance companies. Simple cases with minor injuries generally take less time. If the pedestrian suffered serious injuries that required extensive medical treatment or rehabilitation, or if the case involves disputed issues of liability or negligence, it can take much longer.

Q: Who Is Liable When a Car Hits a Pedestrian?

A: Liability can vary based on the situation of the accident. The driver is likely responsible for the accident if he or she did not yield the right of way, was speeding, or was distracted. The pedestrian can be partially liable for jaywalking or crossing the road in an unsafe manner. Arkansas follows the comparative fault guidelines, so the compensation you can receive may change based on each party’s percentage of fault.

Q: What Is the Most Common Injury for Pedestrians?

A: There are a number of accidents that are common in pedestrian accidents, including fractured bones, brain damage, neck injuries, and minor cuts and bruises. Even minor injuries can have a lasting impact on one’s health. An attorney can look at the facts and your medical history to properly assess how much compensation you could be eligible for.

Q: How Long After an Accident Can You File a Claim in Arkansas?

A: In Arkansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, such as pedestrian accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. Filing within this timeframe is crucial, as missing the deadline may prevent you from pursuing compensation. Consulting an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer early on can help ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time.

Contact The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, The Law Office of Geoffrey D. Kearney, PLLC can help you fight for the compensation you deserve to help in your recovery. Contact us today for a consultation.

I appreciate Mr. Kearney for being the only attorney who gave me the time and the day to listen to my story. Everyone else sends their paralegal to do the work. Kearney is a true…

Esther

Mr. Kearney was everything I could have wanted in legal representation, he was courteous and professional. Took my matter very seriously and was very thorough in his work he broke down the legal terminology when…

Keith Trammell

THE ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! We all need a lawyer that actually cares. I can’t not thank him enough for easing this nightmare of a case !! BEST IN ARKANSAS HANDS DOWN!

Sedaiche Peterson

Geoff served as local counsel in our ADA claim. He was responsive and provided great input and briefing. We got a great result and highly reccomended!