Pedestrian injury claims in Retford: Your guide to legal support

Being involved in a road traffic accident as a pedestrian can be life-changing. When someone is injured while walking, the results can be serious, leading to physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term consequences. In Retford and the surrounding areas, pedestrian safety is a growing concern. If you or someone you love has been injured walking, it is important to understand your rights and the process of making a pedestrian injury claim.

At Marley Solicitors, we are committed to supporting residents of Retford with compassionate, clear, and effective legal advice tailored to your circumstances.

Understanding pedestrian injury claims

A pedestrian injury claim is a type of personal injury case made when someone on foot is injured due to the negligence of another party, typically a driver. This type of claim is designed to help the injured person recover compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Common causes of pedestrian injuries include:

• Drivers failing to stop at pedestrian crossings
• Speeding in residential or built-up areas
• Distracted driving (for example, using a mobile phone)
• Drunk or drug-impaired driving
• Poor visibility or inadequate street lighting

In Retford, pedestrian injuries can occur on busy roads, near schools, shopping areas, or even quiet residential streets. It is crucial to seek legal guidance as soon as possible if you believe your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence.

Who can make a pedestrian injury claim?

Anyone who has been injured as a pedestrian due to the carelessness or recklessness of another person may be eligible to make a claim. This includes:

• Adults crossing the road legally who are hit by a vehicle
• Children injured while walking to school
• Elderly individuals harmed due to poor pavement maintenance or dangerous road layouts
• People struck by drivers mounting the pavement

You can also make a claim on behalf of someone else, such as a child or an adult lacking mental capacity, if they are unable to act on their own.

What compensation can you claim for?

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life. However, most pedestrian injury claims cover the following areas:

• General compensation for suffering, discomfort, and lost amenities
• Special damages for out-of-pocket expenses such as medical costs, travel expenses, and loss of earnings
• Future losses, including ongoing care needs or adjustments to your home or lifestyle

At Marley Solicitors, we take the time to understand how your injury has affected you personally so we can pursue the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.

How long do you have to make a claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a pedestrian injury claim in England and Wales. This time limit can differ in certain circumstances:

• For children, the three-year period starts from their 18th birthday
• For individuals lacking mental capacity, there may be no time limit unless their capacity is restored

It is best to start your claim as soon as possible while evidence is still fresh and witnesses can be contacted. Delays can make your case more difficult to prove.

What is the process for making a claim?

When you contact Marley Solicitors, we will guide you through each stage of the claims process. Typically, this includes:

1. Initial consultation
   We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your situation and assess whether you have a valid claim.
2. Gathering evidence
   We collect important evidence, including medical records, witness statements, CCTV footage, and police reports.
3. Liaising with insurers
   We communicate directly with the other party’s insurers to manage your claim and negotiate on your behalf.
4. Medical assessments
   We may arrange for an independent medical expert to assess your injuries and provide a report that supports your claim.
5. Settlement or court proceedings
   Most claims are settled out of court. If a settlement cannot be reached, we will prepare your case for court and represent you every step of the way.

Why choose Marley Solicitors in Retford?

Our team understands the local roads, common accident hotspots, and the challenges faced by pedestrians in Retford. We offer:

• Local expertise combined with national experience
• No win, no fee representation, so there is no financial risk to you
• Clear, jargon-free advice throughout your case
• A caring and approachable team that treats your case with the importance it deserves

We do not treat pedestrian injury claims as just another case file. We treat them as personal journeys toward justice, compensation, and recovery.

Tips for pedestrians after an accident

If you are injured as a pedestrian, taking the following steps can help your recovery and support your legal claim:

• Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor
• Report the incident to the police and get a reference number
• Collect contact details from witnesses
• Take photographs of the scene and your injuries if possible
• Keep receipts and records of any expenses related to your injury
• Contact a solicitor as soon as you can

How to get started

If you live in Retford or the surrounding area and need help with a pedestrian injury claim, Marley Solicitors is here for you. We are ready to provide straightforward legal advice and committed representation to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Speak to a pedestrian injury solicitor in Retford today

Call us or complete our online enquiry form to arrange your free consultation. There is no obligation to proceed, and we are happy to talk through your options. At Marley Solicitors, your recovery and peace of mind come first.