Goshen Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable individuals on the road. Unlike drivers or passengers in cars, they have no physical protection in the event of a crash. When a vehicle strikes a person on foot, the injuries are often devastating. At Wilson & Kinsman, LLC, we understand how traumatic these incidents can be, and we are committed to helping injured pedestrians in Goshen pursue the compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, truck, or other motor vehicle while walking in Goshen, Indiana, our pedestrian accident lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and take swift action. We provide personalized, compassionate, and aggressive legal advocacy with one goal in mind: securing the full compensation you need to recover and move forward.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?

After being hit by a vehicle, your first priority should be your health. Call 911 or have someone else do so. Seek emergency medical attention, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding.

If you are able, try to document the scene. Take photos of the area, including crosswalks, traffic signs, the vehicle involved, and your injuries. Collect the driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details, as well as the names of any witnesses. Be sure to file a police report, as it will serve as a key piece of evidence in your case.

Once you have received medical treatment and the accident has been reported, contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney. At Wilson & Kinsman, LLC, we encourage you to reach out as soon as possible. Early legal involvement can help preserve evidence and protect your claim.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for My Injuries?

Most often, the driver who struck the pedestrian will be held liable, particularly if they were speeding, distracted, failed to yield at a crosswalk, or disobeyed traffic signals. However, other parties can also share responsibility depending on the circumstances.

For example, if the driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer could be held partially liable. If poor road design, missing crosswalks, or malfunctioning traffic lights contributed to the crash, a local or state government agency may be responsible. Additionally, if a vehicle defect, such as faulty brakes, played a role, the manufacturer could be held accountable under product liability law.

Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, and our firm has the resources to review accident reports, analyze footage, interview witnesses, and work with expert consultants to uncover the truth.

What Types of Injuries Do Pedestrians Commonly Suffer?

Because pedestrians have little protection during a collision, the injuries sustained can be life-altering. Some of the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Fractured or shattered bones
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Facial injuries and dental trauma
• Road rash and soft tissue damage
• Psychological trauma, such as PTSD

Recovery may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, or long-term rehabilitation. Some victims are left with permanent disabilities that prevent them from returning to work or engaging in everyday activities. At Wilson & Kinsman, LLC, we work to ensure your legal claim reflects not just the immediate costs of the injury but the lasting impact on your life.

How Much Compensation Can I Recover?

The value of a pedestrian accident claim varies depending on the severity of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the crash. Victims may be eligible to recover damages for both economic and non-economic losses, such as:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Long-term care costs
• Scarring or disfigurement

In cases involving egregious negligence, such as a drunk driver or hit-and-run, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the at-fault party. Our legal team will carefully evaluate your case to determine its value and pursue full compensation through settlement or trial.

What If I Was Partially at Fault?

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51 percent at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.

For instance, if you are found to be 20 percent responsible for the crash, perhaps for crossing outside of a crosswalk, your total compensation would be reduced by 20 percent. If your fault is 51 percent or more, you are barred from recovery.

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto injured pedestrians to minimize payouts. This is why having an attorney on your side is critical. We know how to challenge these tactics and ensure that fault is assigned fairly based on the facts.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in Indiana?

Under Indiana law, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation entirely.

That said, some exceptions may apply. For example, claims involving government entities typically require notice to be filed within 180 days of the incident. Additionally, if the victim is a minor or legally incapacitated, the time limit may be extended.

The best way to protect your rights is to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. Wilson & Kinsman, LLC can help you determine which deadlines apply and make sure all necessary paperwork is filed on time.

Why Choose Wilson & Kinsman, LLC for Your Pedestrian Accident Case?

At Wilson & Kinsman, LLC, we offer personalized representation grounded in compassion and results. We understand how overwhelming it can be to recover from a serious injury while navigating the legal system. Our attorneys are committed to easing that burden and advocating for your best interests every step of the way.

Clients choose us because we:

• Have a strong reputation in Elkhart County and throughout Northern Indiana.
• Offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis.
• Conduct detailed investigations to build strong, evidence-backed claims.
• Handle negotiations with insurers and take cases to trial when necessary.
• Prioritize communication and transparency throughout the process.
• We treat every client with the respect and attention they deserve. When you work with our firm, you will never feel like just another case file.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today: Contact the Goshen Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, Wilson & Kinsman, LLC is here to help. Our experienced Goshen pedestrian accident lawyers will review your case, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 574-522-1900 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in South Bend and Elkhart, Indiana, we serve clients throughout St. Joseph County and across the state.