Pedestrians in Cincinnati face significant dangers when walking near traffic, especially in high-traffic areas like Downtown Cincinnati, the University of Cincinnati, Over-the-Rhine, Oakley, and Hyde Park. Busy intersections such as Fountain Square, Vine Street, and Columbia Parkway are particularly hazardous due to heavy foot and vehicle traffic. Whether crossing at crosswalks near the Banks, walking in shopping centers like Rookwood Commons, or navigating congested streets in Westwood, pedestrians are at risk when drivers fail to obey traffic laws.
Many pedestrian accidents lead to serious injuries or even fatal injuries, leaving victims and their families struggling with overwhelming medical bills and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one was injured in a pedestrian accident caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. An experienced Cincinnati pedestrian accident lawyer can evaluate your claim at no cost and advise you of your options.
Our personal injury lawyers at O'Connor Acciani & Levy have a proven track record of holding negligent drivers accountable and securing fair settlements for injured pedestrians. We offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you won’t pay any legal fees unless we recover damages for you.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
What are the Main Causes Of Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents in Cincinnati often happen in high-traffic areas such as Downtown, Clifton, and Mount Adams, where heavy foot traffic meets congested streets. Intersections near UC and major shopping centers like Kenwood Towne Centre are especially dangerous when drivers fail to yield or obey traffic signals.
Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
Distracted Driving
Drivers who text, use smartphone apps, adjust GPS devices, or engage in other distractions may fail to see pedestrians crossing the street. A moment of inattention at a busy intersection like Vine Street or Columbia Parkway can lead to devastating consequences.
Speeding
Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time when a pedestrian steps into a crosswalk. High-speed roads like I-75, I-71, and the Western Hills Viaduct pose a significant risk to pedestrians if drivers do not slow down in pedestrian-heavy areas.
Failure to Yield
Drivers must yield the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Unfortunately, some motorists ignore this rule, putting pedestrians in danger—especially in high-foot-traffic areas like the Banks, OTR, and Hyde Park Square.
Disregarding Traffic Signals and Signs
Running red lights, rolling through stop signs, or ignoring pedestrian crossing signals can cause severe injuries. Pedestrians crossing at busy intersections like Liberty Street or Reading Road face an increased risk when drivers fail to follow traffic laws.
Impaired Driving
Drunk or drug-impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, making it more likely for them to strike a pedestrian. Accidents near bars and nightlife areas, such as Main Street in OTR or Short Vine near UC, are often linked to impaired driving.
Drowsy Driving
Fatigued drivers, especially those operating rideshare vehicles, delivery trucks, or commercial motor vehicles, may have delayed reactions, increasing the risk of hitting a pedestrian. This is especially concerning near bus stops, public transit stations, and late-night shift workplaces.
Failing to Check Blind Spots
Larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, have blind spots that can obscure pedestrians. Drivers making turns near schools, grocery stores, or parking lots like Kenwood Mall may fail to notice someone crossing the street.
Poor Weather and Low Visibility
Rain, fog, and poorly lit streets make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians, particularly in residential neighborhoods or areas with inadequate street lighting. Pedestrian accidents often increase during winter months when icy roads and early nightfall reduce visibility.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment. Our Cincinnati personal injury lawyers work to prove negligence, gather evidence, and fight for victims to receive monetary compensation for their losses. If you or a loved one was hit by a car in Cincinnati, seek medical attention immediately, then contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Pedestrians have no physical protection against motor vehicles, making them extremely vulnerable in traffic accidents. Even at low speeds, collisions can lead to catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) – Head injuries such as TBIs can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spine can result in paralysis or chronic pain.
- Broken bones – Fractures often require surgery and extended recovery time.
- Internal injuries – Internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately visible but require emergency care.
- Severe lacerations and road rash – Deep cuts and abrasions can lead to infection or scarring.
- Fatal injuries – Some pedestrian accidents tragically result in wrongful death.
You should seek medical attention immediately after an accident, even if you do not feel injured right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms for hours or days. Medical records from hospital visits and doctor evaluations play a crucial role in proving the severity of injuries in a personal injury claim.
Types of Available Compensation for Pedestrians
Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries that require costly medical treatment and long-term recovery. If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your losses. The amount of compensation depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, and the emotional distress caused by the accident.
Medical Expenses
A personal injury claim can cover all medical costs associated with the accident, including:
- Emergency medical treatment and immediate medical attention
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Doctor’s visits and follow-up care
- Prescription medications for pain management and recovery
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medical devices, such as crutches, braces, or wheelchairs
- Future medical costs if long-term care is needed
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
Many pedestrian accident victims are unable to work while recovering. Compensation may include:
- Lost wages for missed workdays
- Reduced earning potential if injuries prevent returning to the same job
- Disability benefits if the accident causes permanent impairments
Pain and Suffering
Pedestrian accidents often cause more than just physical injuries. Victims may endure significant emotional and psychological trauma. Compensation can cover:
- Chronic pain and physical discomfort
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life if injuries limit mobility or daily activities
- Disfigurement and scarring, which can impact self-esteem and mental well-being
Property Damage
If personal belongings, such as a phone, laptop, or clothing, were damaged in the accident, a claim may include compensation for repairs or replacements.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a pedestrian accident results in fatal injuries, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation may cover:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support from the deceased
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
- Medical expenses incurred before death
Fighting for Maximum Compensation
The insurance company may try to reduce or deny your claim. Fortunately, we have a successful track record with pedestrian accident cases. We obtained $800,000 for a wrongful death claim filed by the wife and family of a man who was struck by a car and killed while standing behind his truck. We also obtained a substantial sum for a man who was severely injured after being hit by a car in a crosswalk. If you lost a loved one, we may be able to obtain wrongful death compensation, including funeral costs, loss of companionship, loss of insurance and retirement benefits, and other damages.
No matter the injuries or losses you suffered in a pedestrian accident, we can help recover damages for you.companionship, loss of insurance and retirement benefits, and other damages.
Ways a Cincinnati Pedestrian Accident Attorney Could Help
The first step to claim for a pedestrian accident is to contact a lawyer. An attorney could conduct an in-depth investigation, gather important evidence to build a solid case for the driver's negligence, and help you file a lawsuit.
Our Cincinnati personal injury attorneys can work with medical experts and accident reconstruction experts to further bolster your claim and demonstrate the role negligence played in causing your injuries. We are prepared to negotiate an out-of-court settlement, but will not settle for any less-than-fair offers. We arrive to negotiations knowing what damages our clients have suffered and how much those damages are worth. If a trial is necessary to achieve the justice you deserve, we have the resources and courtroom experience you need to have a chance of success. Call today for a consultation about your situation.
