Pedestrian accidents can be devastating. When a pedestrian is hit by a car, they often sustain severe injuries that can lead to long-term disability, chronic pain, and emotional distress. In many cases, these injuries are the result of negligence on the part of the driver, and the pedestrian may be entitled to compensation.
However, winning a pedestrian injury case can be challenging, and it’s essential to understand the legal process and your rights as a victim. In this article, we’ll explore how to secure maximum compensation for your pedestrian injuries.
Understanding the Legal Process
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, the first step is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel okay, it’s crucial to get a medical evaluation, as some injuries may not manifest themselves immediately. Additionally, having medical records can be essential in proving the extent of your injuries and the associated costs.
Once you’ve received medical attention, it’s time to consider legal action. To win your pedestrian injury case, you’ll need to file a claim or lawsuit against the driver responsible for your injuries. The legal process typically involves several steps, including:
- Investigation: Before filing a lawsuit or claim, your lawyer will need to investigate the accident. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with experts.
- Filing a claim: If the driver’s insurance company is willing to settle the case, you may be able to avoid going to court. Your lawyer will file a claim with the insurance company, and negotiations will begin.
- Filing a lawsuit: If the insurance company is not willing to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit. This involves going to court and presenting evidence to a judge or jury.
- Settlement or trial: If the case goes to trial, the judge or jury will decide the outcome. However, most pedestrian injury cases are settled out of court.
Proving Negligence
To win your pedestrian injury case, you’ll need to prove that the driver was negligent. Negligence is a legal term that refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care. In a pedestrian accident, negligence may involve things like speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted. To prove negligence, you’ll need to demonstrate that:
- The driver had a duty of care: All drivers have a legal obligation to drive safely and obey traffic laws.
- The driver breached their duty of care: The driver’s actions or inactions constituted a breach of their duty of care.
- The breach caused your injuries: The driver’s breach of duty directly led to your injuries.
- You suffered damages: You incurred damages as a result of your injuries, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Evidence is crucial in proving negligence. Your lawyer will need to gather evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, and medical records. They may also consult with experts, such as accident reconstructionists, to help establish fault.
Working with an Attorney
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial in winning your pedestrian injury case. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. They can also represent you in court and help you understand your rights and options.
When choosing an attorney, look for someone with experience in personal injury law and pedestrian accidents. Ask for referrals from friends and family, and check online reviews to get a sense of the attorney’s track record. Be sure to schedule a consultation with any attorney you’re considering, as this will give you an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of their communication style.
Contact Us Today
Winning a pedestrian injury case can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. To win your case, it’s crucial to understand the legal process, prove negligence, and work with an experienced attorney. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention and consult with a personal injury attorney.
Remember, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, and an attorney can help you navigate the legal system and get the justice you deserve. By following these steps and working with the right attorney, you can increase your chances of winning your pedestrian injury case and getting the compensation you need to move forward.
Featured Photo by Kaique Rocha: https://www.pexels.com/
Early in his journalism college years, Kerry Tucker had a revelation: there were not nearly enough law communicators. Peoples’ difficulties in understanding the law, procedures, and how the justice system worked stemmed from the fact that no one took the patience to explain complicated matters to them. Therefore, he took upon him the task of helping people navigate legal matters easier. He works with attorneys and other legal journalists, and spends time doing research so that everyone – from a mother whose child got a bike injury to a company needing insurance counsel – to find the actionable answers they are looking for.