As of October 1, 2021, Connecticut law now provides further protections to pedestrians when interacting with motor vehicles.
Specifically, the new pedestrian safety amendment expands the conditions under which drivers must yield to walkers, bicyclists, skateboarders, etc., and prohibits using an open car door as a barrier to other moving traffic.
Who is responsible for my pedestrian accident?
Whenever vehicles interact with pedestrians, it is usually those on foot who have the right of way, especially where there is a crosswalk or signal directing traffic. If a car hits you while you are legally walking through a parking lot, the driver is likely at-fault, and his or her insurance carrier should be responsible for any personal injury you may suffer as a result.
How do I substantiate my claims?
To file a claim for compensation after your pedestrian accident, you must be able to prove the extent of your injuries through thorough documentation. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible and begin collecting evidence of harm to your person that you can present to the at-fault party’s insurance company. If your doctor orders an MRI that shows trauma-related injuries such as bone fractures, herniated disks, torn ligaments or spinal cord damage, you should have the proof you need to recover medical costs and lost wages as well as pain and suffering due to the accident.
If you are the victim of a vehicle-pedestrian collision, it is important to know your rights and entitlements under Connecticut law.