What If I Am Injured as a Pedestrian in the USVI?

 Posted on February 18, 2025 in Car Accidents

On Wednesday, January 15th, two pedestrian tourists on St. Thomas went airborne after being struck by a vehicle. Upon approaching a crosswalk, traffic in all directions was stopped, leading the pedestrians to begin making their way across the road. A car ran a red light without stopping, hitting and injuring both pedestrians. Reports claim that the lack of a pedestrian traffic control system likely contributed to the collision.

Traffic laws in the U.S. Virgin Islands are different than most mainland citizens are used to, and road conditions are sometimes subpar. Whether you are injured as a pedestrian, motorist, or passenger, car accident claims for USVI collisions can be complicated. You need an experienced St. Thomas personal injury attorney who has offices in the Islands and understands how to handle your claim effectively.

What Are Common Causes of USVI Car Accidents?

As a prime tourist destination, the USVI attract visitors from around the world. Although some countries, like the UK, drive on the left side of the road, Americans and others use the right. When tourists rent cars where people drive on the other side of the road than they are used to, they are unfamiliar with the vehicle’s layout and often have trouble adjusting to driving in the opposite lane, which can cause accidents. Other frequent contributing factors include:

• Unmaintained roads or rental vehicles

• Narrow, steep, and curvy roads

• Drunk or distracted driving

• Speeding

• Unfamiliarity with the location

Colianni & Leonard LLC has local resources to investigate your accident. We can place the blame where it belongs and help you pursue a compensation claim. Your damages could include reimbursement for your financial losses and compensation for the adverse impacts your accident had on your quality of life.

Why Are USVI Car Accident Claims Complicated?

The driver who caused your accident could be a USVI resident, another American tourist, or someone from a foreign country. You need to navigate insurance policies and claim filing requirements accordingly, which is confusing. If poor road conditions or missing pedestrian control devices contributed to your crash, pursuing a claim against the government is an extremely complex matter.

Poorly maintained rental vehicles might have faulty brakes or loose steering. Pinning fault on the rental company requires evidence obtained through an investigation.

You will probably return home after your vacation, meaning you will not be present while your case is investigated and your claim is processed. Still, you need to trust your attorney to handle your case effectively from afar. Many mainland firms lack the specific USVI knowledge they need to navigate the multiple challenges. We have physical offices in the Islands and offer exceptional legal services, regardless of where you are.

Consult an Experienced St. Croix Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When your Caribbean vacation is interrupted by a car accident, you need a reliable St. John personal injury attorney to handle your claim. Because Colianni & Leonard LLC has local offices and can meet with you by phone or videoconferencing, we are well-equipped to serve you. Call 340-719-1766 now or submit our online contact form to schedule your complimentary case review.