“Pedestrian accidents often happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime.” – Attorney Matthew J. Nelson
Were you or someone you love hit while walking in a Minneapolis crosswalk? Are you searching for answers to questions like:
- Can I sue if I was hit in a crosswalk in Minneapolis?
- What are my rights as a pedestrian in Minnesota?
- Who is at fault in a pedestrian accident at an intersection?
You are not alone. Every year, pedestrians are struck while walking legally in crosswalks, sometimes while the light is in their favor.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we stand with victims of crosswalk accidents. We fight to hold negligent drivers accountable and secure the compensation that injured pedestrians need to recover, rebuild, and move forward.
Why Crosswalk Pedestrian Accidents Are So Dangerous
Crosswalks should be safe zones, especially in a city like Minneapolis, where residents rely heavily on walkability. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to yield, are distracted, or speed through intersections. When this happens, pedestrians are left vulnerable and exposed. The human body cannot withstand the force of a vehicle, even at low speeds.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, pedestrian fatalities have increased in recent years. Many of these tragic incidents occur in crosswalks during daylight hours, when visibility is high and pedestrians are most active.
We have seen the devastating results firsthand. Victims suffer serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent disability
- Emotional trauma
Attorneys Matthew J. Nelson and Timothy W. Nelson have helped clients recover from life-altering pedestrian injuries by pursuing aggressive legal action and offering compassionate support. With over 50 years of experience, they possess a deep understanding of the Minnesota legal system and utilize this expertise to maximize case outcomes.
What Makes Our Law Firm Different
Not every injury law firm approaches pedestrian accidents with the care and intensity they require. At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we take a unique approach rooted in trust, transparency, and unwavering advocacy.
Attorney Nelson explains, “We are not just here to file paperwork. We are here to guide, to listen, and to stand by our clients until they get the resolution they deserve.”
What sets our team apart:
- Over Three Decades of Personal Injury Experience
We have built a strong reputation for resolving complex personal injury cases throughout Minnesota, including pedestrian accidents at intersections and in crosswalks. - A Track Record of Results
Our firm has recovered millions for injured clients. While every case is different, our history of success demonstrates our commitment to justice. - Personalized, Client-First Representation
You will never be treated like a case number. From the first consultation to the final settlement or trial verdict, we prioritize your needs and goals. - Contingency-Based Representation
You pay nothing unless we win. We believe every victim deserves access to legal help regardless of their financial situation.
Common Causes of Crosswalk Accidents in Minneapolis
Pedestrian accidents rarely happen without some form of driver negligence. Some of the most common causes we investigate include:
Distracted Driving
Texting, talking on the phone, or interacting with GPS can easily distract a driver long enough to miss a pedestrian in the crosswalk.
Speeding Through Intersections
Minneapolis has many busy intersections, such as those near Hennepin Avenue or Lake Street. Drivers who race through traffic lights often ignore pedestrians with the right of way.
Failure to Yield
Minnesota law requires vehicles to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Unfortunately, many drivers do not respect this rule, leading to preventable injuries.
Driving Under the Influence
Impaired drivers have delayed reaction times and impaired judgment, putting everyone on the road at risk—including pedestrians.
Poor Visibility or Weather Conditions
In snowy or foggy conditions, it is even more important for drivers to slow down and remain alert. Failing to do so may be considered negligence under Minnesota law.
If any of these factors contributed to your injury, a pedestrian accident attorney in Minneapolis, MN from our team can begin building your case today.
Your Rights As an Injured Pedestrian
Pedestrians have rights under Minnesota law, and those rights matter in the aftermath of a crosswalk accident. If you were walking in a crosswalk when you were struck by a vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Future rehabilitation or therapy
- Permanent disability
Under Minnesota’s no-fault insurance system, you may initially recover certain benefits through your own insurance, such as medical expenses and wage loss. However, when serious injuries occur, you have the right to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurer or even through a personal injury lawsuit.
An accident attorney in Minneapolis, Minnesota, can explain your legal options during a free consultation. Every moment counts, especially if there are time limits (statutes of limitations) that could impact your right to file.
What To Do After a Crosswalk Accident
If you have been hit while crossing a street, your first instinct may be confusion or panic. Try to follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Emergency Medical Help
Your well-being comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, internal trauma may not appear right away. - Contact Law Enforcement
A police report is a crucial piece of evidence. Make sure officers respond to the scene and document what occurred. - Gather Evidence
If possible, take photos of the crosswalk, the vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Obtain contact details for any witnesses. - Avoid Making Statements to Insurers
Do not admit fault or give detailed statements to the driver’s insurance company without speaking to a lawyer first. - Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Our team will review your case, preserve evidence, and handle all communications with insurance companies while you focus on recovery.
How Nelson Personal Injury, LLC Helps Victims Rebuild
We do more than file claims. We strive to provide our clients with peace of mind and financial security in the face of unimaginable pain. Whether you need assistance with medical treatment, help coordinating with your insurance company, or someone to stand up to the other driver’s insurer, we are here.
Each case begins with a detailed case evaluation. We examine the facts, consult medical experts, reconstruct accident scenes if necessary, and interview witnesses. We also review traffic camera footage, driver cell phone records, and vehicle damage reports to build a comprehensive case.
Once we understand your losses, we negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If they refuse to treat you fairly, we are fully prepared to take legal action.
Why Choosing The Right Lawyer Matters
A crosswalk accident can change everything. The right attorney can make the difference between a dismissed claim and a meaningful settlement.
Attorney Nelson has consistently been recognized by his legal peers and industry organizations for his professionalism and effectiveness. But what truly matters to us is how our clients feel at the end of their cases—empowered, supported, and ready to move forward.
One client shared, “I never thought I would be in a pedestrian accident, but when it happened, I was scared and overwhelmed. Matthew Nelson and his team were there every step of the way. They answered every question and got me the help I needed.”
We bring that same level of care to every person who walks through our door.
Local Knowledge Matters
We understand the dynamics of pedestrian traffic in Minneapolis. From Uptown to the North Loop, we are aware of which intersections pose the highest risks and how to collaborate with local authorities to obtain crucial information. We are familiar with city regulations, public safety data, and local court procedures.
This gives our clients an advantage that national firms or generic legal websites simply cannot match.
Get Help From a Minneapolis Crosswalk Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been hit in a Minneapolis crosswalk, we urge you to act quickly. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can begin protecting your rights.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we understand what is at stake. We will walk with you every step of the way and fight tirelessly to recover what you deserve. You do not have to face this alone.
Contact us today or complete our online contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and justice.
