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How can you determine who is at fault?

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Read Time: 2 mins

For personal injury claims, the most challenging part of proving a case involves clearly showing that the other person (or other legal entity) was the one who was directly responsible for a plaintiff’s injuries and that the person responsible should have been able to avoid causing harm by acting in a reasonable manner. One of the best auto accident lawyers in Memphis, TN can explain how this burden may be met in regards to your case.

When it comes to personal injury accidents involving pedestrians, everyone involved—including the pedestrian—is expected to use reasonable care under different circumstances. Just like the person driving the car, the pedestrian is also expected to obey the rules of the road and look both ways, not walk out in the middle of traffic, and cross at a crosswalk. Thus, if a pedestrian did not exercise this care and instead walked out in the middle of the road while the car was clearly within vision, they may be held at least partially at fault for the accident. Similarly, if the motorist had ample time to avoid the pedestrian but hit them anyway, they could also be considered partially at fault in this scenario. As you can see, the ins and outs of determining fault in pedestrian accidents can be complex, even at first glance. That is why you should strongly consider connecting with one of the best auto accident lawyers in Memphis, TN before making any assumptions about your situation.

In addition, there is a wide array of injuries that can happen to a pedestrian after they get into a car-pedestrian accident, the type of compensation they can expect to receive will vary. Further, the amount of compensation that a pedestrian may receive after filing a claim will also depend on whether the pedestrian is found partially at fault, fully at fault, or not at fault. In general, if individuals are determined to be totally at fault for an accident, they will not recover compensation. However, individuals found to be partially at fault or not at all at fault may recover economic and/or economic damages. A Memphis, TN auto accident lawyer can help to clarify what kinds of damages you may be entitled to, based on your unique circumstances.

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Client Reviews

    
 
 
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   Hailey Wade 
 19 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Deb Clark 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tanya White 
 24 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
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   Charmaine Sego 
 25 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phil Chamberlain 
 41 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC - first class lawyers.
  
 
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   Catherine McGee 
 61 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marva Johnson 
 67 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
M.JOHNSON
  
 
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   Pam Nicole 
 68 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.
  
 
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   Steven Creasy 
 89 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Rachel was amazing and professional. Highly recommend. Thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lea Carr 
 103 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray has a fantastic team and is always quick to respond for any need that I have. They are also great to refer clients, family, and friends to.

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