In 2014, over 60,000 persons were hurt in pedestrian accidents in America. Some experts believe that almost that many were represented by a pedestrian accident attorney. Any vehicle crash is heart-stopping, but a pedestrian accident is extra traumatic. Not only are injuries more severe, but as a pedestrian, you may not have been anticipating meeting a car.
In 2017 pedestrian/vehicle accidents increased over 10%. Whether you believe you were at fault or not, it’s important to figure out what benefits you may be entitled to. That’s why there is an urgent need to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
What Is a Pedestrian Accident?
Such an accident happens when a vehicle hits someone who is walking or standing still. At any speed over 30 miles per hour, injuries will be serious and fatalities can occur. Severe injuries, such as paralysis, can happen even if the car is going as slow as 10 miles an hour.
These types of accidents occur at any time, and it doesn’t matter if you are walking in a plaza, on a sidewalk or only crossing the street. Tens of millions of people walk each day, and it is healthy; usually.
What To Do Following a Pedestrian Vehicle Accident
First, move to a safe spot. Call 911 if you are able. Don’t leave the scene until law enforcement and health care responders get there. Some other steps to take include:
- Collect the names and contact information of the driver, and anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Don’t admit to fault.
- Do not negotiate with the driver it’s too soon to know how serious your injury is.
- Seek medical care, and not just to make sure you are ok but to help safeguard your rights in case of a future settlement.
When Do You Have a Case?
A case for driver negligence could mean you are entitled to compensation for injuries and emotional trauma received. There are several ways which drivers have been proven negligent in pedestrian/car accidents:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Failure to signal
- Disregarding traffic conditions
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
If any of the behaviors were a part of the accident that happened, make sure to get a pedestrian accident attorney to guard your rights.
How Does a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Help?
Having an attorney experienced in pedestrian/vehicle accidents is crucial. You want your rights guarded while making sure you get the compensation you deserve. The driver’s insurance carrier will offer a settlement, but remember that the agent works for the insurance provider ? not for you. The agent’s goal is to minimize the settlement while saving the company money.
If you’re in such an accident, don’t talk about the case with anyone including the driver’s insurance carrier. Get a lawyer and tell the insurance company to speak with your attorney.
The Takeaway
You may feel you can settle the issue on your own. Studies show that 25% of people choose to represent themselves in court instead of retaining an attorney. The people who represent themselves lose 90% of the time.
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