Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Orem, Utah | Johnson Livingston Attorneys

When you're struck by a vehicle while walking in Orem, the physical, emotional, and financial impact can be overwhelming. Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment, time away from work, and long-term rehabilitation. At Johnson Livingston Attorneys, our dedicated team of pedestrian accident lawyers understands the unique challenges these cases present and fights tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

Located at 195 South Orem Boulevard Suite 1, Johnson Livingston Attorneys has been serving Utah County residents since August 2018. Our personal injury attorneys have successfully handled numerous pedestrian accident cases throughout Orem, Provo, and the surrounding Utah County area, securing millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients.

Understanding Pedestrian Rights Under Utah Law

Utah's Pedestrian Right-of-Way Laws

Utah Code Section 41-6a-1002 establishes clear rules regarding pedestrian rights and driver responsibilities. Under this statute, vehicle operators must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians crossing within crosswalks when the pedestrian is on the same half of the roadway as the vehicle or approaching closely enough to be in danger. The law also requires complete stops at school crosswalks when occupied by pedestrians.

However, pedestrians also have responsibilities under Utah law. They cannot suddenly leave a curb or place of safety and enter the path of a vehicle that poses an immediate hazard. Understanding these nuances is crucial when building a strong pedestrian accident case.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Orem

Driver Negligence and Distracted Driving

The majority of pedestrian accidents in Orem result from driver negligence. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving from cell phone use, texting, or other distractions
• Failure to yield at crosswalks and intersections
• Speeding through residential areas and school zones
• Impaired driving from alcohol or drug use
• Poor visibility conditions during dawn, dusk, or nighttime hours
• Aggressive driving behaviors like running red lights or stop signs

Infrastructure and Environmental Factors

Orem's growing population and development can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians, including:

• Inadequate crosswalk markings near Utah Valley University
• Poor lighting along State Street and University Parkway
• Construction zones that force pedestrians into traffic
• Lack of sidewalks in certain residential areas

Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection when struck by a vehicle. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
• Multiple bone fractures requiring surgical intervention
• Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
• Severe lacerations and road rash
• Wrongful death in the most tragic cases

These injuries frequently require immediate emergency treatment at facilities like Utah Valley Hospital or American Fork Hospital, followed by months or years of rehabilitation and medical care.

How Johnson Livingston Attorneys Can Help

Immediate Response and Investigation

When you contact our firm after a pedestrian accident, we immediately begin investigating your case. Our team:

• Gathers surveillance footage from nearby businesses before it's deleted
• Interviews witnesses while memories are fresh
• Works with accident reconstruction professionals
• Documents the scene and traffic conditions
• Reviews police reports for accuracy and completeness

Building Your Case for Maximum Compensation

Our pedestrian accident attorneys understand the full scope of damages you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical expenses including emergency treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional trauma
• Property damage to personal belongings
• Future medical needs and ongoing care costs

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame to pedestrians. Our attorneys have extensive experience dealing with major insurance carriers and know their tactics. We handle all communications with insurance adjusters, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

Notable Case Results

Johnson Livingston Attorneys has achieved significant results for personal injury clients throughout Utah. In July 2021, attorney Blake Johnson secured a $4.8 million settlement for clients who suffered permanent brain damage due to carbon monoxide poisoning. This case demonstrates our firm's commitment to achieving substantial compensation for clients who have suffered life-altering injuries.

Our case results speak to our thorough preparation, attention to detail, and willingness to take cases to trial when necessary to achieve fair outcomes for our clients.

Serving Orem and Utah County Communities

Local Knowledge and Community Connections

As an Orem-based firm, we understand the unique traffic patterns and pedestrian safety challenges in our community. We regularly handle cases involving accidents near:

• Utah Valley University campus where student pedestrian traffic is heavy
• Orem City Center and the FrontRunner station
• University Parkway and State Street corridors
• Neighborhood schools and recreational areas
• Shopping centers along busy commercial streets

Our familiarity with local courts, including the Fourth District Court in Provo and Utah County Justice Court, allows us to effectively represent clients throughout the legal process.

Understanding Utah's Statute of Limitations

Under Utah Code Section 78B-2-307, you have four years from the date of your pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Evidence can disappear, witnesses' memories fade, and insurance companies may pressure you to accept inadequate settlements before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

Working with Our Experienced Legal Team

Our Attorneys

Blake W. Johnson brings unique qualifications to pedestrian accident cases. As a former private investigator and University of Utah Law School graduate, Blake has the investigative skills necessary to uncover crucial evidence in complex pedestrian accident cases. His fluency in Spanish also allows him to serve Utah County's diverse population effectively.

Todd D. Livingston graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and earned his J.D. from Gonzaga University School of Law. His background includes experience as a negotiations competition finalist, skills that prove invaluable when securing favorable settlements for pedestrian accident victims.

Brooke Hansen joined the firm after graduating from Loyola University Chicago School of Law, bringing over a decade of paralegal experience in personal injury law. Her unique perspective helps ensure thorough case preparation and client advocacy.

Our Approach to Client Care

At Johnson Livingston Attorneys, we believe every person deserves quality representation regardless of case size. Our core values guide everything we do:

• Quality representation focused on your real needs
• Clear communication throughout your case
• Thorough preparation to build the strongest possible case

We promise monthly communication updates and remain accessible to address your concerns throughout the legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a pedestrian accident in Orem?

Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Get contact information from witnesses if possible, and seek medical evaluation at the scene. Document your injuries and contact Johnson Livingston Attorneys as soon as possible to protect your rights.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident claim in Utah?

Utah law provides four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, evidence preservation and witness availability make it crucial to contact an attorney immediately after your accident.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Utah follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, as long as your fault is less than 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the driver who hit me doesn't have insurance?

Utah requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage, but some drivers operate vehicles illegally without insurance. In these cases, your own uninsured motorist coverage may provide compensation. Our attorneys can help you navigate these complex situations.

How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?

Johnson Livingston Attorneys works on a contingency fee basis. We charge one-third (33%) of any settlement amount, or 40% if the case proceeds to litigation. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Will my case go to trial?

Most pedestrian accident cases settle out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, our attorneys are experienced trial lawyers prepared to take your case to court if necessary to achieve fair compensation.