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On December 19th, the Hartford Courant reported that a pedestrian was killed in a terrible crash in Stamford. A 48-year-old man named Cesar Cabrera-Guzman was identified as the victim of the tragic collision. The driver is cooperating with police and the incident is still under a more comprehensive investigation. Here, our Connecticut pedestrian accident attorney provides a more detailed overview of what we know about this case, highlights the risks that pedestrians face from traffic, and explains your rights if you are hit by a car while crossing the street.

Early Morning Fatal Pedestrian Accident in Stamford Still Under Investigation

A pedestrian crash was reported to local law enforcement in the early morning hours of Tuesday, December 19th. The collision happened on High Ridge Road in Stamford, CT when a pedestrian—not identified as Cesar Cabrera-Guzman—was struck while attempting to cross the street. Mr. Cabrera-Guzman suffered very serious injuries and, unfortunately, was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The pedestrian accident is still under a more comprehensive investigation and any person with information is encouraged to contact the Stamford Police Department.

Traffic Poses a Risk to Pedestrian Safety in Connecticut

While Connecticut’s pedestrian safety record is slightly better than the national average, far too many pedestrian crashes continue to happen in our state—and the problem is getting worse. The CT Monitor cites comprehensive highway safety data showing that the average annual number of pedestrian fatalities statewide is up nearly 50 percent over the last decade. In 2021, 65 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle crashes in Connecticut. Many more pedestrians suffered devastating, sometimes even life-altering injuries.

Your Rights If You are Involved in a Pedestrian Accident in Connecticut

The immediate aftermath of a serious pedestrian crash in Connecticut is stressful, chaotic, and overwhelming. Injured victims must understand their rights. Here are four things to know about your rights after a pedestrian crash:

• You Have the Right to Get Immediate Medical Attention: Of course, your health is the most important thing. If you are hit by a vehicle, in Connecticut you can and should seek medical help right away. Emergencies always come first. Non-emergency injuries should still be evaluated by a doctor. Your physician can check for any hidden injuries to make sure you are okay. To be eligible to bring a pedestrian accident injury claim, you will need medical records.

• You Have the Right to Hold the At-Fault Party Accountable: Connecticut is a fault-based motor vehicle accident jurisdiction—including for pedestrian crashes. If someone else caused the accident, you have the right to hold them responsible for your damages. Many pedestrian crashes are caused by negligent drivers—such as one that was texting while driving, speeding, or running a red light. However, other parties, including trucking companies or ridesharing companies, may also be liable for a pedestrian crash. Make sure that your pedestrian collision is thoroughly investigated.

• You Have the Right to Seek Financial Compensation: Accidents can lead to big bills. Medical treatments, lost wages from missing work, and other costs can add up. You have the right to ask for financial compensation for the full extent of your losses, including non-economic damages. Do not let an insurance company pressure you into settling your case for less. You may be entitled to recover pedestrian accident compensation for property damages, medical bills, long-term medical care, lost wages, loss of earning power, pain and suffering, long-term disability, and wrongful death.

• You Have the Right to Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: Understanding the law is not easy—and dealing with an aggressive insurance company can be even harder. Do not take on the claims process alone. You have the right to be represented by a top-tier Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyer. At Etemi Law, there are no fees unless we win your case. Our firm represents injured pedestrians and their families on a contingency fee basis. We only get paid when you get paid.

Schedule a Free Case Review With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Connecticut 

At Etemi Law, our Connecticut pedestrian accident lawyers are standing by, ready to advocate for your rights and your interests. If you or your family member was involved in a serious pedestrian crash, we are here to help. Call us today or contact us online for a no-cost, no-commitment initial review of your legal case. From our law offices in Waterbury and Watertown, we handle pedestrian accident cases throughout the region, including in Hartford, Wolcott, and Naugatuck.