Pedestrians face growing dangers on US roads, and recent figures show how serious the problem has become. In the most recent year analyzed, 7,318 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes nationwide, marking one of the highest totals recorded in decades. Compared to a decade earlier, pedestrian deaths have risen by 48%, reflecting long-term trends tied to faster vehicles, larger SUVs and trucks, and distracted driving. Many of these incidents occur at night or in urban areas where foot traffic and vehicle congestion overlap, leaving people on foot especially vulnerable to severe or fatal injuries.
If you have been struck by a vehicle while walking, understanding your legal options is critical to protecting your future. Working with a Sweet James car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation for medical care, lost income, and the lasting effects of your injuries. An experienced attorney can investigate what happened, identify liable parties, and deal with insurance companies that often attempt to minimize pedestrian claims, allowing you to focus on recovery while your case is handled with skill and persistence.
Immediate Actions After an Accident
Safety always comes first. After the accident, relocate to a safer location to prevent additional injuries. Ask for a medical checkup, even if you do not feel hurt or injured, as some injuries may not appear immediately. Ask for the contact details of the driver and any other witnesses to the scene. Taking pictures of the accident scene, injuries, and car damage makes it easier to file a compensation claim later.
Reporting the Incident to Authorities
It is crucial to contact the local law enforcement after an incident involving pedestrian/s. The officer drafts the report, and this formal report becomes vital evidence during legal proceedings. It is advisable to save this report for your records. Points such as driver quotes, weather reports, and eyewitness accounts are often included in this document. This information can support your case in the event of a legal battle in the future.
Seeking Medical Documentation
Visiting a healthcare professional immediately offers two key advantages. Firstly, it ensures that injuries are properly treated. Secondly, medical records document the injury details, which are crucial if you want to pursue compensation. Thorough documentation of injuries, treatments, and recovery times can make or break insurance negotiations and impact court outcomes. Retain copies of medical reports, bills, records, etc., related to the accident.
Contacting Insurance Companies
Notify your insurance company immediately after the accident. The driver’s insurance company should also be notified. Insurance representatives will ask questions about the accident. Answer their questions based on facts, not speculation. Compensation depends on how quickly you contact your insurer. Keep copies of all insurance correspondence and claim numbers as a reference for the future.
Understanding Compensation Options
Pedestrians injured by vehicles can claim damages for medical bills, wage losses, pain, and suffering. It is also possible to get compensation for property damage, including broken glasses or a phone. Such damages are typically covered by the driver’s insurance, while your own insurance provider may cover some of these damages. The compensation you receive depends on how severe your injuries are, how much coverage the liable party has, and whether they were at fault.
Establishing Fault and Evidence Collection
Responsible action is key to winning a claim. Law enforcement reports, witness statements, and physical evidence usually help prove who was negligent. In certain situations, both the pedestrian and the driver are partially responsible. In such scenarios, compensation is awarded based on the percentage of fault. The more evidence you have, the better your chances are of receiving compensation.
Legal Representation and Advice
Hiring an attorney can support decision-making. Lawyers can explain state laws, help organize evidence, and talk with insurance companies on your behalf. Most lawyers offer free consultations to review the case and discuss the potential outcome. If the situation calls for negotiations or court hearings, legal experts handle that, too. This way, victims can focus on recovery.
Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
When an insurance settlement does not provide full compensation for all the damages incurred or if liability is disputed, it may be necessary to file a civil lawsuit. A statute of limitations determines how long you have to initiate legal action. Failing to file on time could lead to a forfeiture of your right to compensation. However, a lawyer can help you avoid this by filing the correct paperwork before the relevant deadline.
Conclusion
When pedestrians are hit by a car or any other vehicle, it can alter their lives physically, emotionally, and financially. Lawyers guide the process of recovery, as they understand the legal options available to pedestrians. Timely medical treatment, documentation, and legal consultations are key to achieving a favorable outcome while supporting recovery.
