Walking should be safe, but too often, careless drivers put pedestrians at risk in Prince George’s County. A single moment of inattention—running a red light, failing to yield, or speeding near a crosswalk—can cause life-altering injuries. Recovery isn’t just painful; it’s expensive, with medical bills piling up and time away from work making things even harder. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face this alone. McGowan & Cecil, LLC is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents in Prince George’s County happen for many reasons, but driver negligence is the leading cause. When motorists fail to pay attention or follow traffic laws, pedestrians face serious risks. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving – Texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or using a GPS can take a driver’s focus off the road.
- Speeding – Drivers who go too fast, especially near crosswalks or in residential areas, have less time to react.
- Failure to yield – Maryland law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, but many ignore this rule.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time and judgment, making accidents more likely.
- Poor visibility – Bad weather, nighttime driving, and obstructions like parked cars make it harder to see pedestrians.
When drivers are careless, pedestrians pay the price. If you were hit by a negligent driver in Prince George’s County, you have the right to seek compensation.
Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians have no protection against the force of a moving vehicle, making injuries from accidents severe or even life-threatening. The impact alone can throw a person onto the pavement or into other objects, causing significant harm. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken bones – Fractures in the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis often require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
- Head injuries – Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can lead to memory loss, cognitive issues, and long-term disability.
- Spinal cord damage – Severe accidents may cause partial or complete paralysis.
- Internal injuries – Damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other complications can be life-threatening.
- Soft tissue injuries – Deep lacerations, torn ligaments, and severe bruising can result in chronic pain and mobility issues.
Recovering from a pedestrian accident is physically, emotionally, and financially draining. If a negligent driver injured you in Prince George’s County, we can help you pursue the compensation you need.
Who Is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident depends on the circumstances, but in most cases, the driver is at fault. When motorists fail to yield, speed through intersections, or drive while distracted, they put pedestrians at serious risk. However, other parties may also share responsibility, including:
- Government entities – If poor road design, broken traffic signals, or missing crosswalks contributed to the accident, a city or county agency may be liable.
- Employers – If the at-fault driver was working at the time, their employer may be responsible.
- Vehicle manufacturers – A defect in brakes, steering, or other critical parts could make a manufacturer partially liable.
In some cases, pedestrians may share fault, such as if they jaywalk or cross against a signal. However, even if you are partially responsible, you may still recover damages. We carefully investigate every case to determine liability and fight for fair compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Prince George’s County, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses – Covers hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and future medical care.
- Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to your job.
- Pain and suffering – Accounts for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed.
- Wrongful death damages – If you lost a loved one, you may be entitled to funeral costs and other financial support.
We fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.
How We Can Help You
Recovering from a pedestrian accident in Prince George’s County can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical treatments, lost income, and insurance companies that try to minimize payouts. At McGowan & Cecil, we handle the legal process so you can focus on healing. Our team gathers evidence, negotiates with insurers, and, when necessary, takes cases to court to fight for the compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges pedestrian accident victims face and work tirelessly to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Contact Our Experienced Prince George’s County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Pedestrian accidents in Prince George’s County can have lasting consequences, but you don’t have to face them alone. If a negligent driver injured you or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact McGowan & Cecil today for a free consultation, and let us help you move forward.
McGowan & Cecil, LLC is based in Laurel, Maryland, and proudly serves clients throughout Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County, Howard County, and Montgomery County.