What to Know About Pedestrian Injuries and When to Hire an Accident Attorney
Pedestrian injuries from car accidents are common and can result in severe injuries, long-term physical and mental trauma, or even death. If you or someone you love has sustained pedestrian injury from a car accident, you need to know your legal rights and options to seek compensation for your damages and losses.
Understanding Pedestrian Injury Cases
Pedestrian accidents involve any collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or buses. Pedestrian injury cases can be complicated due to the severe nature of injuries, the multiple parties involved, and the legal and factual issues that need to be determined. Some of the common causes of pedestrian accidents are driver negligence, distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, failing to yield, or inadequate visibility. Pedestrians injured by motor vehicles may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
When to Hire an Accident Attorney
While you can file a claim for your injuries on your own, you should consult with an experienced accident attorney who can evaluate your case's strengths and weaknesses and guide you through the legal process. An attorney can help you gather evidence to prove your case, negotiate with the insurance companies, file the necessary paperwork, and represent you in court. It is especially crucial to hire an attorney if your injuries are severe or long-lasting, you are facing high medical bills, or the accident was caused by a commercial vehicle or a government agency.
The Importance of Evidence
Evidence is crucial to proving liability and damages in a pedestrian injury case. You should gather as much evidence as possible to support your claim, such as photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, medical records, bills, and proof of lost wages due to your injuries. Your attorney will collect evidence to build a strong case to maximize your compensation. In addition, an attorney can work with expert witnesses to provide testimony that supports your version of events.
Filing a Claim and Seeking Compensation
You must file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to seek compensation for your pedestrian injury case. The insurance company will evaluate your claim and offer a settlement amount, which you can accept or reject. If the settlement offer is insufficient or unfair, or the insurance company denies your claim, you can file a lawsuit against the driver in civil court.
Contact a pedestrian accident attorney to learn more.