Pedestrian accidents are among the most common types of car accidents, and they can be devastating. In fact, they’re the leading cause of death for children ages 14 and younger. Pedestrian accidents are also one of the most preventable types of car accidents. With a little knowledge, you can keep yourself safe when you’re out walking or at least reduce your likelihood of being in an accident while walking.
You may have been involved in a pedestrian accident and are wondering how to best proceed. While the legal process can be complex, there is a lot you can do to ensure your rights are respected.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident
The first step is to get medical assistance for your injuries. You can call for an ambulance or use personal means to the hospital. However, ensure that you keep records of the injuries you sustain and the costs you’ve incurred during treatment. These records will come in handy when making insurance claims and can also serve as evidence in a trial.
The second step is to consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer who understands your case and will be able to tell you whether or not you have a chance at winning your case. A good attorney will also be able to guide you through the process, from filing the claim to presenting evidence and negotiating with insurance companies.
Once you’ve chosen an attorney, it’s important to keep in mind that this person is doing this for you because they care about your well-being. They won’t just take your money or run off with it (though it’s true that some attorneys are scam artists). They’ll work hard on your behalf to make sure that justice prevails.
You should also work with your pedestrian accident attorney to collect evidence from the scene and ask eyewitnesses to record their statements. The attorney will also help you get access to police records that will help with your insurance claims and as evidence in case of a trial.
Types of Pedestrian Accidents
There are three types of pedestrian accidents:
- Inattentive pedestrians who fail to yield the right-of-way to drivers or other pedestrians;
- Negligent pedestrians who fail to exercise due care; and
- Drunk drivers who cause injuries through reckless driving or intoxication.
The first two types of accidents can be proven by a witness or by video footage from a security camera or dashboard camera that captures the event as it happens. The last type of accident can be proved by medical records or law enforcement reports documenting the injuries sustained by the victim(s).
Conclusion
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, you may think that it was your fault—but it wasn’t. In fact, many pedestrian accidents are actually caused by other drivers who fail to follow traffic laws or road signs.
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, choosing the right lawyer is crucial for your future recovery. A good lawyer will help guide you through the process and make sure you get compensation for all damages related to your injuries.
