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Apr 06, 2026
Houma is a beautiful town with a rich history, often called the “Capital of Deep Bayou Country.” However, unexpected accidents happen every day, sometimes with disastrous effects. Pedestrian accidents may happen whenever drivers are negligent, especially in busy downtown areas. Everyone should know the top causes of pedestrian accidents in downtown Houma and what to do if they are injured in these accidents.
Top Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Downtown Houma
Whenever a motor vehicle driver hits a pedestrian, the pedestrian has a very high chance of suffering catastrophic injuries. These accidents often result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, and more. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reported that in 2023, 1,234 pedestrians were injured and another 147 died from vehicle accidents statewide.
If you or a loved one is hurt in this type of accident, it’s vital to know what you can do to prove liability and hold the at-fault driver accountable for the harm they caused. Some of the top causes of pedestrian accidents in downtown Houma include:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reported that of all the pedestrian deaths from vehicle accidents statewide in 2023, 34% involved an alcohol-impaired driver. Any driver who causes an accident while intoxicated faces criminal charges in addition to liability for any damages they caused to others.
- Speeding. Whenever drivers exceed posted speed limits, they put themselves and everyone around them at severe risk. Speeding not only increases the likelihood that a driver will not be able to slow down or stop, but also the severity of any resulting injuries. Pedestrian accidents that happen at higher speeds are more likely to result in catastrophic or fatal injuries.
- Distracted driving. This is a major cause of all vehicle accidents in Louisiana, not just pedestrian accidents. However, pedestrians are even more vulnerable to distracted drivers because they are much easier for inattentive drivers to overlook. Texting while driving and anything else that diverts a driver’s focus away from the road can potentially cause a pedestrian accident.
- Failure to yield. Drivers are expected to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Whenever a pedestrian enters a crosswalk, drivers must yield and allow them to cross. If a pedestrian crosses a street illegally and a vehicle hits them, the pedestrian will likely be found partially liable for the accident.
- Moving violations. Drivers who run red lights or stop signs put nearby pedestrians at extreme risk when those pedestrians expect oncoming traffic to stop. Drivers can also cause pedestrian accidents with other moving violations, such as illegal turns.
- Reckless driving. Drivers who show clear disregard for the safety of others can face criminal charges along with civil liability for any damages they cause. Excessive speeding, street racing, and other reckless acts can sometimes result in devastating injuries to pedestrians in Houma.
These are just a few of the ways that drivers may cause pedestrian accidents in busy places like downtown Houma. If you or a loved one is injured because of a driver’s negligence, it’s vital to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. The right attorney can help you pursue compensation for your damages and resolve your case efficiently.
The team at the Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC has more than 50 years of experience representing clients injured in all types of vehicle accidents. We know how damaging a pedestrian accident can be and that you are likely to have many questions about your legal options following such an accident. Our team is ready to help you pursue accountability, so reach out to our firm as soon as possible to learn how we can help.
FAQs
Can a Pedestrian Be at Fault for Their Accident in Houma?
It’s possible for a pedestrian to share fault for their accident in Houma. All drivers have a responsibility to yield to pedestrians, but when a pedestrian crosses a street illegally, outside of a designated crosswalk, or before the crossing signal indicates they are safe to cross, they may be found partially liable for a resulting accident. An experienced Houma pedestrian accident attorney can explain how shared liability can influence the outcome of a pedestrian accident case.
What Are Common Injuries From Pedestrian Accidents?
A few common injuries from pedestrian accidents include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, internal organ damage, spinal cord injuries, and crushing injuries. A pedestrian may not only suffer extreme harm from the impact of the vehicle, but also from the secondary impact of them hitting the ground. Catastrophic injuries are especially likely when a car pins a pedestrian against another surface or object.
What Is the Value of a Pedestrian Accident Case in Houma?
The potential value of a pedestrian accident case in Houma depends on the severity of the victim’s damages. If the plaintiff can prove a defendant is directly responsible for causing the accident, the plaintiff can potentially recover compensation for any economic and non-economic damages they suffered from the accident. They may be able to recover medical bills, lost wages, and compensation for their pain and suffering.
Why Should I Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
You should hire a pedestrian accident lawyer because even if the fault for your accident seems obvious, your case is likely to be far more challenging than you may have initially expected. A skilled local attorney can gather crucial evidence, accurately calculate your claimed damages, and determine the optimal way for you to recover compensation. You’re more likely to achieve a favorable outcome with an experienced attorney on your side.
The attorneys at the Blake Jones Law Firm, LLC know the top causes of pedestrian accidents in downtown Houma and how to help injured victims pursue accountability for these accidents. We know your recent accident was likely damaging and traumatic, and we want to help you build an effective personal injury case. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our team and learn how an experienced Houma pedestrian accident attorney can help you recover.
