Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be an incredibly traumatic experience. It can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. To help ensure that you get the best possible outcome, it is important to stay informed on your legal rights and responsibilities following a pedestrian accident. This article will provide information on what to know if you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, including what steps to take, how to contact a personal injury lawyer, and more.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health and your legal rights. Here are some critical steps you should take right away:
– Talk to the Police
You should always call the police after a pedestrian accident, even if you don’t think you were seriously injured. The police can help secure the scene, gather witness statements, and create an official report of the incident. This report will be an important piece of evidence if you later decide to file a personal injury claim.
– Document Evidence
Take photos of the scene of the accident, including any damage to vehicles or property, as well as any injuries you sustained. If there are witnesses present, ask for their contact information so that you or your lawyer can follow up with them later. Be sure to also document any medical treatment you receive, including the names of doctors and hospitals and the dates of your appointments.
– Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
After a pedestrian accident, it’s crucial to speak with a trusted personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you determine your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights in court if necessary. By working with a lawyer early on, you can maximize your chances of securing a fair settlement or award for your injuries and other damages.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Pedestrian
When it comes to accidents, the law is designed to protect pedestrians and ensure that they receive fair compensation when injured. However, there are certain steps you must take in order to ensure your legal rights are preserved. Here are some important things to understand about your legal rights as a pedestrian:
– Fault Determination
In most cases, the fault for a pedestrian accident is determined based on the negligence or carelessness of one or more parties involved. A personal injury lawyer can help you assess who was at fault for the accident and determine what legal remedies may be available.
– Time Limit for Filing a Claim
Most states have laws that impose time limits on filing personal injury claims. It’s important to know these limits and
Common Injuries Sustained in Pedestrian Accidents
Though every accident is different, there are some common injuries that pedestrians can sustain in an accident. These include:
– Head Injuries
Head injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries can range from mild to severe, and they may require extensive medical care.
– Broken Bones
Broken bones are a frequent injury for pedestrians involved in accidents due to the force of impact with the vehicle.
– Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord damage can cause paralysis or chronic pain, both of which require long-term medical treatment and care.
– Psychological Trauma
The emotional trauma of a pedestrian accident can be just as damaging as physical injuries, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Seeking Medical Treatment and Documenting Your Injuries
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s critical to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Documenting your injuries and any medical treatment you received is important for both your physical recovery and legal rights. To ensure that you are compensated fairly, be sure to all documents about your injuries. Not only will this help reduce your suffering and speed up the healing process, but it will also provide important documentation of your injuries for use in any legal claim.
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, but it’s important to stay informed and take action. By understanding your legal rights as a pedestrian and the steps you need to take following an accident, you can empower yourself to get the best possible outcome. Working with a skilled personal injury lawyer is key to maximizing your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
