A car will always win in a collision with a pedestrian. Tons of metal hitting flesh is going to cause injuries, often serious ones. That’s why drivers have to yield to pedestrians when they are in a crosswalk, in an unmarked crosswalk, on school days, and even when the pedestrian is making an illegal crossing. If you see a pedestrian, the driver must yield. That’s not to say that pedestrians don’t have rules to follow – they do. But if you are struck by a car, you will often be due compensation. That’s why you should immediately hire a lawyer. The benefits of hiring representation include the following:
1- Establish Liability
The driver must yield to you whenever possible, but if you jaywalk or take dangerous actions, you may be at fault. A lawyer will get the accident report, talk to witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies. You need a good personal injury lawyer on your side to promote your claims.
2- Collect Documentation
Your lawsuit will require more than the accident report. You may need medical files, witness reports, local traffic statistics, and other documentation. If you are recuperating from a serious accident, you will be unable to manage all the paperwork. A lawyer will make sure you have the documents you need to prove your case.
3- Secure Compensation
A personal injury lawyer does negotiate with the insurance companies so you don’t have to. They also work hard to get you the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, which may be long-term and costly. A car/pedestrian accident can cause traumatic brain injury, fractured bones, nerve damage, and more serious issues. A lawyer will make sure you do not settle for too little to cover your expenses and loss of income.
In addition, a lawyer can help you determine a reasonable amount for pain and suffering. When a motor vehicle strikes you, it causes physical and emotional damage. You deserve compensation for both.
4- Fight Counter-Claims
The driver of the car can sue you if they feel you caused the accident. If you darted between cars or ran across the intersection without looking, you can be held responsible for car damage, the driver’s emotional distress, etc. You will need a lawyer to protect you against any of these claims, even if you are the badly injured party. These types of lawsuits sometimes serve to discourage your efforts to collect compensation.
In most pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents, the pedestrian incurs serious injuries. Broken bones, head injuries, spinal issues, and more can result from these traffic incidents. You may face months of expensive medical treatment as well as lingering emotional issues. If you are the victim of this type of accident, you deserve fair compensation.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will protect your interests and help you get the money you deserve. They will also protect you from legal action taken against you by the driver. These are serious accidents, and they require a serious response. Secure the services of experienced attorneys as soon as you can.
