If you frequently walk instead of drive, you face risks sharing the road with cars and trucks. Drivers seldom follow traffic laws for Huntsville pedestrians the way they should. At Siniard Law, LLC, our skilled pedestrian accident attorneys possess extensive knowledge of traffic laws and work diligently to pursue compensation from negligent drivers.
Pedestrian Traffic Laws
An understanding of traffic regulations in Huntsville helps determine liability in accident cases involving pedestrians. Alabama state law and local ordinances establish specific rules governing pedestrian and driver behavior to promote safety and prevent accidents.
Here are some important pedestrian laws.
Right-of-Way at Crosswalks
State law grants pedestrians the right-of-way when crossing streets within marked crosswalks or at intersections, whether the city has marked the crosswalk or not. Drivers must yield to pedestrians lawfully using these designated crossing areas.
However, pedestrians must also exercise caution and cannot suddenly enter a crosswalk when vehicles are so close that drivers cannot reasonably yield to them.
Pedestrian Crossing Obligations
Pedestrians crossing roadways outside of designated crosswalks must yield the right-of-way to vehicles. The law requires pedestrians to use sidewalks rather than walking along roadways.
In areas with no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic on the road’s shoulder or edge.
Traffic Signal Compliance
Both pedestrians and drivers must obey traffic control signals. Pedestrians should cross only when the walk signals indicate it is safe and must complete their crossing or reach a safety island when the signal changes.
Drivers must stop for red lights and yield to pedestrians who have lawfully entered intersections.
Driver Duties and Responsibilities
Drivers must exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians, regardless of circumstances. Their duties include reducing speed in school zones, residential areas, and locations where pedestrians are present. Drivers must also yield when turning at intersections if pedestrians are crossing the road.
Intoxication and Distraction Laws
The state’s impaired driving laws aim to protect pedestrians from drunk or drugged drivers. Similarly, distracted driving laws prohibit texting while driving, reducing risks to vulnerable pedestrians. Violations of these laws establish clear liability.
School Zone Protections
School zones have higher penalties and lower speed limits, providing additional protection for child pedestrians during specific hours when students are arriving or departing.
How Could a Lawyer Help After a Traffic Law Violation?
When a driver violates Huntsville road rules and causes injury to someone walking, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Our skilled lawyers could provide legal support following the collision.
Investigating the Violation
Our pedestrian accident lawyers could gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to prove the driver’s violation. They could use evidence to prove speeding, failure to stop at a red light, or failure to yield the right-of-way.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts, even when a driver has clearly broken the law. Our legal team could handle all communications, negotiate with insurers, and prevent insurers from pressuring you to accept an unfair settlement.
Pursuing Full Compensation
Our attorneys could assess all your damages, including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. They could also estimate the value of damages, allowing them to pursue fair compensation for you.
Representing You in Court
If settlement negotiations fail, our lawyers could present a compelling case in court for maximum compensation.
Call a Huntsville Pedestrian Accident Attorney To Discuss Traffic Code Violations
The law may entitle you to compensation if you or a loved one sustained an injury caused by a driver who violated traffic laws for Huntsville pedestrians. Our accident attorneys at Siniard Law, LLC could investigate your case, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your legal options and next steps.
