Injured While Walking or Jogging at Night? Legal Tips for Texas Pedestrians

Walking or jogging after dark may offer a cooler climate or a quiet moment of peace, but it also comes with serious risks. If you were hit by a car while walking or running at night in Texas, you may be dealing with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and a lot of unanswered questions.

Texas is a particularly dangerous state for pedestrians, especially after sunset. While you may assume drivers will see you and act safely, that’s not always the case. When someone’s careless or reckless driving causes you harm, you may have the right to compensation. A Texas pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and pursue the justice you deserve.

Understanding Nighttime Pedestrian Accidents in Texas

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), most pedestrian accidents occur at night. Poor visibility, driver distraction, and alcohol use are all common contributing factors. Unlike drivers, pedestrians lack physical protection, so injuries are often catastrophic or even fatal.

Even if you were partially at fault, such as wearing dark clothing or not using a crosswalk, Texas’s modified comparative negligence rule may still allow you to recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents at Night

Nighttime pedestrian accidents in Texas can happen anywhere—busy intersections, residential neighborhoods, or rural roads. Some of the most common causes include:

• Low visibility or poor lighting
• Speeding drivers
• Distracted driving (texting or using GPS)
• Drunk or impaired driving
• Failure to yield at crosswalks
• Drivers not expecting pedestrians

What To Do If You Were Hit While Walking or Jogging at Night in TX

The moments afterward can be chaotic if you’re struck by a vehicle while walking or jogging. Here’s what you should try to do, if you’re able:

• Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical help.
• Get medical attention as soon as possible—even if you think your injuries are minor.
• Document the scene, including photos of your injuries, the vehicle, and road conditions.
• Get contact information from the driver, witnesses, and responding officers.
• Do not admit fault or make statements to the driver’s insurance company.
• Contact a Texas pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as you can.

The sooner you reach out to a personal injury lawyer, the faster they can investigate your claim, preserve evidence, and fight for your rights.

Injuries Pedestrians May Suffer After Being Hit by a Car 

Injuries from pedestrian accidents are often severe, especially when the vehicle is traveling at higher speeds. Some common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding or organ damage
• Road rash and lacerations
• Emotional trauma and PTSD

These injuries often require months or years of medical care, lost income, and long-term lifestyle changes. A successful personal injury claim can help you recover financial compensation for these losses.

Can I Sue After Being Hit by a Car in Texas?

Yes. If a driver’s negligence caused your injuries, you may file a personal injury claim to pursue compensation. In Texas, you must file your claim within two years of the accident date under the statute of limitations. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to recover damages.

To have a valid claim, your attorney must prove:

1. The driver owed you a duty of care (to operate their vehicle safely).
2. They breached that duty (e.g., by speeding or driving distracted).
3. That breach caused your injuries.
4. You suffered damages (medical bills, lost income, etc.) as a result.

Don’t assume you were at fault, even if you weren’t in a marked crosswalk or wore dark clothing. Let a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney review your case and determine how Texas law applies.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Pedestrian Accident?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, surgeries, rehab)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Suppose your loved one was tragically killed in a pedestrian accident. In that case, you may also be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.

Tips for Staying Safe While Walking or Jogging at Night in Texas Neighborhoods

While drivers are legally required to avoid hitting pedestrians, you can take steps to reduce your risk:

• Wear reflective gear or bright clothing
• Carry a flashlight or wear a headlamp
• Use sidewalks or paths when available
• Avoid using headphones so you can hear traffic
• Cross at well-lit, marked crosswalks
• Always stay alert and avoid distractions

Even with precautions, accidents happen. If you’ve been injured, The Law Giant is here to protect your rights.

Injured as a Pedestrian at Night? Let The Law Giant Help.

Getting hit by a car while walking or jogging at night can change your life in an instant. You don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At The Law Giant Personal Injury and Accident Lawyer, our experienced Texas pedestrian accident lawyers know how to investigate your case, handle the insurance companies, and fight for every dollar you deserve.

We’ve helped countless Texans get justice after serious injuries and are ready to help you.

Call (866) 523-4167 today or fill out our online contact form for a free, no-risk case evaluation. There’s no fee unless we win for you.