Pedestrian safety is a growing concern in towns and communities across the UK, and Petersfield is no exception. With increasing traffic and bustling streets, the risk of pedestrian accidents has become a significant issue for residents and visitors alike. If you have been injured while walking in or around Petersfield due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to make a pedestrian accident injury claim.
At Marley Solicitors, we understand the distress and disruption that such an accident can cause. Our team is here to support you through the legal process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding pedestrian accidents in Petersfield
Petersfield, with its mix of busy market squares, narrow lanes, and increasing development, sees regular pedestrian activity. Unfortunately, this also leads to situations where pedestrians are placed at risk. Common locations for accidents include junctions without proper pedestrian crossings, shopping areas, and near schools or transport hubs.
Pedestrian accidents in the area often result from:
- Drivers failing to stop at pedestrian crossings
- Vehicles speeding in residential zones
- Distracted driving, including mobile phone use
- Poor visibility due to parked cars or low lighting
- Cyclists or e-scooter users failing to give way
Whether the accident occurred on a main road or a quiet lane, if it was caused by another party’s carelessness or breach of duty, you may have a valid claim.
Types of pedestrian injuries
Injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents can range from minor to life-changing. Unlike drivers or cyclists, pedestrians have no protection from impact, which often leads to serious harm. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones or fractures
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Lacerations and bruising
- Internal organ damage
- Psychological trauma, such as anxiety or PTSD
Recovery from such injuries often involves not only physical healing but also emotional and financial stress. That’s why seeking legal advice as early as possible is crucial.
Can I make a claim after a pedestrian accident?
If you were hit by a vehicle or injured due to another party’s negligence while walking in Petersfield, you may be able to claim compensation. To be eligible, you must demonstrate:
- The accident was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing
- You suffered injury as a result
- The accident happened within the last three years (or longer in special circumstances)
Even if you were partially at fault, you could still be entitled to compensation, although the amount may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility. For example, if you crossed the road away from a designated crossing, but the driver was speeding, a court might find both parties partially liable.
Who can pedestrian claims be made against?
Depending on the situation, a pedestrian injury claim in Petersfield might be brought against:
- A driver of a car, van or lorry
- A cyclist or e-scooter rider
- A local authority (if a pavement or road defect caused the accident)
- Businesses (if an employee’s actions led to the injury, such as a delivery driver)
Our legal team will assess the details of your case to identify the responsible party or parties and pursue a claim accordingly.
What compensation can I receive?
Compensation in pedestrian accident claims is generally divided into two main categories:
General damages:
This covers pain, suffering, and the impact on your quality of life resulting from the injury. More serious injuries or long-term effects usually lead to higher awards.
Special damages:
These cover financial losses related to the injury, such as:
- Medical expenses (both current and future)
- Travel costs for hospital visits
- Lost earnings, including future loss of income
- Costs of care and support
- Expenses related to rehabilitation or therapy
- Property damage (such as broken personal items)
At Marley Solicitors, we work to ensure every aspect of your injury and its consequences is accounted for, so you receive the full amount you are entitled to.
How do I start a pedestrian accident claim in Petersfield?
Starting a claim is straightforward with the right legal support. Here’s what you can expect from the process:
- Initial consultation:
Contact our team to discuss your accident and circumstances. We will listen to your account, review any evidence you have and explain your options. - Evidence gathering:
This may include witnesses’ statements, CCTV footage, medical records, police reports, and photographs of the scene. Our solicitors will handle this for you. - Medical assessment:
You may need to undergo a medical examination to assess the extent of your injuries and the impact on your daily life. - Valuing your claim:
We will calculate a realistic compensation amount based on your injuries, losses and prognosis. - Negotiation:
We will contact the responsible party (or their insurer) and begin negotiations to reach a settlement. Most claims are settled without needing to go to court. - Court proceedings (if necessary):
If a settlement cannot be agreed, we will represent you in court. However, we always aim to resolve claims efficiently and with minimal stress.
Time limits for pedestrian accident claims
In most cases, pedestrian accident claims must be made within three years of the date of the incident. However, there are exceptions:
- If the injured person is under 18, a parent or guardian can claim on their behalf any time before their 18th birthday. Once they turn 18, they have until their 21st birthday to make a claim themselves.
- If the injured person lacks mental capacity, there is no time limit for making a claim.
Acting quickly is always advised, as it is easier to gather evidence and establish liability soon after an accident.
What if the driver was uninsured or left the scene?
Even if the driver responsible for your injury was uninsured or untraceable, you may still be able to claim compensation. The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) provides a scheme to support victims in these circumstances.
We can assist you in submitting a claim to the MIB, ensuring that you are not left without support due to the other party’s failure to comply with the law.
How much does it cost to make a claim?
Marley Solicitors offer no win, no fee representation for pedestrian accident injury claims. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You only pay a fee if your claim is successful
- The fee is taken as a percentage of your compensation, agreed in advance
This approach removes financial risk and ensures that everyone has access to justice, regardless of their circumstances.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your claim in Petersfield?
At Marley Solicitors, we have a strong track record in securing compensation for injured pedestrians. When you work with us, you benefit from:
- Local knowledge of Petersfield and surrounding areas
- Decades of experience in personal injury law
- A compassionate, client-first approach
- Clear communication throughout your case
- Proven results in securing maximum compensation
We understand how disruptive and traumatic a pedestrian accident can be. Our goal is to ease your burden, help you recover, and obtain justice on your behalf.
Supporting pedestrian safety in Petersfield
Beyond handling claims, we are passionate about making our local communities safer. We support local initiatives that promote road safety, raise awareness about pedestrian rights, and encourage responsible driving.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a pedestrian accident, do not suffer in silence. Let Marley Solicitors stand by you.
Contact our Petersfield pedestrian injury claim specialists
If you have been injured while walking in Petersfield, contact our personal injury team today for free initial advice. The sooner you speak to a solicitor, the sooner we can begin building your case and helping you on the path to recovery.
Call Marley Solicitors now or complete our online enquiry form to book your free consultation.
