Hartford Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Securing Compensation for Auto-Pedestrian Accident Victims in Connecticut
Have you been injured in a Hartford pedestrian accident? Or has a loved one of yours been seriously hurt or killed by a moving vehicle? Since 1955, the Hartford pedestrian accident attorneys at RisCassi & Davis, P.C. have been protecting the rights of individuals struck and injured by cars and other motor vehicles. Our experienced and dedicated team of pedestrian accident lawyers based in Hartford knows how to collect evidence and build a strong claim for your best possible recovery.
To learn more about what we can do for you following a pedestrian accident, call (860) 245-2412 or contact us online to book your free legal consultation with an attorney.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
In 2018, 20.4% of traffic fatalities in the state of Connecticut were pedestrians, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Driver negligence leads to most pedestrian accidents, although many factors can contribute to a crash.
Examples of driver error may include:
- Failing to stop at stop signs or traffic lights
- Not checking behind them before backing or pulling out
- Paying more attention to their phone than to the road
- Driving under the influence of a substance like prescription drugs or alcohol
- Failing to signal while turning
- Speeding and other reckless driving
- Failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Disregarding weather or traffic conditions
Pedestrians may be at fault for accidents when they:
- Fail to look both ways before crossing the street
- Dart into the road from between cars or behind obstructions rather than crossing in designated areas
- Are difficult to see because of failing to wear high visibility clothing in low light or bad weather
Infrastructure also plays a significant role in pedestrian accidents. Poorly lit streets, missing signage, and a lack of pedestrian walkways increase risks. Distracted driving caused by mobile devices can also raise accident chances, especially when passengers draw the driver's attention away from the road. Efforts to improve safety require ongoing legal action and local community engagement to promote better infrastructure in Hartford.
Hartford has made efforts to improve pedestrian safety by updating crosswalk signals and adding pedestrian islands on high-traffic streets like Main Street and Farmington Avenue. Despite these updates, accidents still occur at busy intersections, especially during peak commuter hours when both vehicle and foot traffic increase. Our attorneys monitor these Hartford-specific patterns and details to strengthen every claim and anticipate potential defenses.
Where & When Do Pedestrian Accidents Typically Occur?
According to the NHTSA, the vast majority of pedestrian fatalities occur in urban areas (81%) as opposed to rural areas (19%).
Pedestrian accidents often occur in urban areas where vehicle traffic is heavy, especially on or around:
- Intersections
- Crosswalks
- Roads without sidewalks or shoulders
These incidents are also more likely to occur during the evening and nighttime hours when visibility is low and both drivers and pedestrians are more likely to be intoxicated.
In Hartford, pedestrian accidents frequently happen during rush hours, especially near commercial corridors like Asylum Avenue, Albany Avenue, and West Main Street. Limited street lighting in some neighborhoods raises the risk after dark. City officials have identified several intersections as high-incident locations and made targeted improvements. This local knowledge helps our legal team evaluate cases accurately and offer practical advice about gathering evidence after an accident.
The Importance of Experienced Attorney Assistance
Hiring an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Hartford is crucial for navigating the complexities of personal injury cases. At RisCassi & Davis, P.C., our attorneys bring substantial knowledge of local traffic laws and a clear understanding of the unique challenges presented by pedestrian accidents here. We use our insight to advocate for clients and ensure a thorough investigation, solid evidence collection, and strong claim preparation. By focusing on Hartford-specific trends and data, our attorneys craft strategies that fit local laws and residents’ needs.
Our firm uses a team approach, drawing on decades of representing individuals hurt in greater Hartford. Seven of our attorneys are board certified in civil trial law—a mark of preparation and deep trial experience. For complex cases, we work with those who reconstruct accident scenes and use our Connecticut court experience to anticipate challenges. We also travel to meet clients statewide, whether they are recovering at St. Francis Hospital or at home, to give every individual the attention they deserve.
Having a seasoned attorney on your side can make a difference during recovery. We know the emotional and physical difficulties these events cause and provide support throughout the process. With open communication and clear client education, we help make the legal process less daunting. Because we use a contingency fee structure, victims avoid upfront legal costs, making our services accessible across Hartford. This client-centered approach, combined with our history of strong results, shows our dedication to helping clients seek fair compensation and move forward.
Hartford Pedestrian Accident Laws & Regulations
Pursuing a pedestrian accident claim in Hartford involves Connecticut statutes and city ordinances that influence liability and how cases progress. State law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks where signals or markings exist, and Hartford police monitor compliance at intersections throughout the city. Hartford continues to expand Vision Zero policies, aiming to create safer streets and reduce traffic deaths—public safety and street design can both become important in the legal process.
Yearly changes in traffic enforcement or local infrastructure often shape how attorneys review accident details. By staying current with these developments, our team tailors strategies to fit both state and Hartford-specific guidelines. Our familiarity with Hartford’s community ensures we guide clients accurately, especially when a case involves city agencies or problems unique to the area.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Hartford
Taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident protects your health and supports your claim. While Hartford emergency services typically arrive fast, get medical care even if you feel fine—some injuries take time to show up. Report the incident to police and get a copy of the official report, usually filed with the Hartford Police Department or Connecticut State Police if it occurred on a state road. Collect contact information from everyone involved and ask nearby witnesses for statements, especially around busy areas like downtown or schools. Take photos of the scene and your injuries; documentation adds significant weight to your claim should you decide to move forward.
Preserving evidence is vital in Hartford, where heavy traffic and crowded areas can make details fade quickly. If local cameras from businesses or traffic signals might have captured the event, try to request that footage as soon as possible. Our legal team values detailed documentation and can guide clients in collecting information that supports their goals. Taking these steps soon after an accident lays the groundwork for a stronger legal case.
What Sets Us Apart
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Significant Honors & Recognition
In our 70+ years of experience, we have received both national & regional recognition for our handling of injury cases, and many honors from our legal colleagues.
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An Expert Team Approach
We have an extensive national network of experts available to us in the fields of medicine, engineering, traffic safety, accident reconstruction, and more – each available to work on your case should it require their expertise.
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Over Half a Billion Dollars RecoveredWe've taken hundreds of cases to trial and we've won some of the largest personal injury verdicts and settlements in Connecticut history.
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Board-Certified Trial LawyersOur seven attorneys who have achieved this honor demonstrated they have the training & depth of experience to help you get the best possible outcome for your case.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian vs. Car Accidents
When a motor vehicle hits a person, the pedestrian is almost always the one who suffers the worst injuries. Pedestrians have little protection when struck and often require hospitalization. This results in severe pain, long recovery, and costly medical expenses for the victim.
In Hartford, the severity of injuries often relates to the speed and size of vehicles on busier roads, such as near Bushnell Park or the Capitol area, where foot traffic is heavy. City emergency responders regularly treat multiple injuries after downtown accidents because of dense congestion. Quick access to hospitals like Hartford Hospital can improve recovery prospects, making timely medical care very important.
Injuries commonly suffered by pedestrians in auto-pedestrian accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spine and spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Amputation/loss of limb
- Wrongful death
Recoverable Damages in a Pedestrian Accident
Damages typically fall under one of two categories:
- Economic damages: Economic damages cover actual monetary losses caused by your pedestrian accident. These include medical expenses (hospitalization, surgeries, medications), lost wages, property damage, ongoing treatment, counseling, and other financial losses directly related to your case.
- Non-economic damages: Non-economic damages involve losses that are difficult to measure. This may include compensation for physical and/or emotional pain, loss of body function or limb, and loss of enjoyment of activities due to permanent injury.
Insurance companies handling Connecticut pedestrian accident claims may try to undervalue non-economic losses, but our legal team draws on decades of handling Hartford cases and understands local courts’ criteria for evaluating these damages. Hartford victims may also face out-of-pocket costs for transportation or home modifications after a serious injury, so a careful damages analysis can make a difference in the final outcome.
In rare cases, compensation in other categories such as “punitive damages” may be awarded. The exact compensation you may receive depends on the facts of your case and individual situation. The attorneys at RisCassi & Davis, P.C. will do all they can to help you pursue a fair and just outcome. For more than sixty years, we have advocated for injured pedestrians in Connecticut and know what it takes to seek a settlement that supports your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?
After a pedestrian accident, always prioritize your safety and health. If you can, move to a safe location and contact emergency services. Give the police an accurate account of the incident. Gather witness information, as it can help with legal proceedings. If possible, photograph the scene, the vehicles, and visible injuries. Seek medical attention right away—even minor injuries may lead to more serious concerns later. Keeping a record of medical visits and expenses can help if you file a legal claim. Finally, contact a pedestrian accident lawyer who can advise you on your rights and next steps.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Pedestrian Accident in Hartford?
In Hartford and across Connecticut, you generally have two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could cost you your right to recover compensation. Some factors—such as government involvement—can impact the timeline, so speak to a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to learn about all your options and deadlines. Starting early also helps you collect stronger evidence while details remain fresh.
How Can a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Help Me?
A pedestrian accident attorney in Hartford helps you through the legal process with clear guidance. Lawyers gather evidence, including footage from traffic cameras and witness statements, to establish who is responsible. They also handle communication with insurance carriers to seek a fair settlement. Their knowledge of Connecticut law and familiarity with local regulations can help maximize your compensation for bills, wages, and related damages. Support from a knowledgeable advocate can give you peace of mind as you recover.
What If the At-Fault Driver Left the Scene?
Hartford drivers must remain at the scene after any accident. If a driver leaves after hitting a pedestrian, contact police immediately. Law enforcement uses street cameras or witness tips to locate missing drivers. Our attorneys help clients facing these challenges and work to preserve important case information.
Does Connecticut Law Require Pedestrians to Use Marked Crosswalks?
Connecticut law encourages pedestrians to use crosswalks, but crossing somewhere else is not automatically a violation. However, drivers must remain alert for pedestrians anywhere on the road. Hartford’s ordinances can further clarify who owes right of way, and not following these rules could shape how responsibility is assigned in a legal claim.
Call RisCassi & Davis, P.C. at (860) 245-2412 or send us a message online to schedule your no cost, no obligation consultation with a pedestrian accident attorney in Hartford today.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Recent Case Victories
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$40 Million Truck Accident
Pedestrian injured by a delivery truck resulting in paralysis.
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$12.6 Million Wrongful Death
Injury and death damages as a result of an explosion at the Kleen Energy plant.
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$11 Million Truck Accident
Collision with commercial delivery truck results in brain injury.
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$9 Million Paralyzed Worker
$9,000,000 settlement for a paralyzed construction worker.
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$8.1 Million Medical Malpractice
Improperly performed biopsy lead to wrongful death.
