Halloween night in Corpus Christi is meant to be festive and full of excitement. Children dart from house to house for candy, families stroll through neighborhoods in costumes, and parties are held throughout the evening. Unfortunately, with more people walking the streets, there’s also a rise in pedestrian-related accidents.
If you were injured as a pedestrian on Halloween night, it's important to understand your legal rights and what steps to take next.
Why Pedestrian Accidents Increase on Halloween
Halloween is one of the most dangerous nights of the year for pedestrians. According to national safety data, the number of pedestrian fatalities spikes dramatically on October 31. The combination of low visibility, distracted or intoxicated drivers, and excited children running into the street creates a dangerous environment. These risks are even more pronounced in the residential neighborhoods of Corpus Christi, where street lighting may already be limited.
Preventable factors cause many pedestrian accidents on Halloween:
- Speeding drivers who fail to slow down in residential areas.
- Distracted driving, especially from using GPS or mobile phones to navigate busy streets.
- Driving under the influence is also a concern, as Halloween is a popular night for adult parties and celebrations.
- Inadequate supervision of children who dart onto roads without checking for oncoming traffic.
What Legal Rights Do Pedestrians Have in Texas?
In Texas, the law affords certain protections to pedestrians, especially when drivers fail to follow basic safety guidelines. Under the Texas Transportation Code, drivers must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections, regardless of whether the crosswalk is marked. When drivers disobey traffic laws or drive recklessly, they can be held legally liable for any injuries caused.
If you were injured due to driver negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Future rehabilitation costs
You may still have a valid claim even if you were partially at fault. Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. This means that as long as you were not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages proportionally.
Common Injuries from Halloween Pedestrian Accidents
Injuries from pedestrian accidents are often severe, especially when children are involved. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Facial injuries and dental trauma
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These types of injuries can lead to extensive medical treatment and emotional challenges that last for months or even years.
What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or your child is hit by a car on Halloween, follow these steps:
- Call 911 immediately. Ensure police and emergency services respond to the scene.
- Seek medical attention. Some injuries are not visible right away, especially head trauma.
- Document the scene. Take photos, get the driver’s information, and talk to witnesses if you are able.
- Avoid discussing fault. Don’t apologize or speculate on what happened.
- Contact a personal injury attorney. The sooner you involve a lawyer, the more effectively your case can be built.
Corpus Christi Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
In Corpus Christi and beyond, Halloween night presents unique challenges and opportunities for pedestrians. Understanding and asserting your legal rights not only ensures personal safety but also enables you to take action should you suffer injuries. If you find yourself injured, remember that you don't have to face the aftermath alone. The team at Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys is here to guide you through the complexities of the legal process, helping you every step of the way. We encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation at (361) 310-5299, allowing our expertise to work for your benefit as you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.