Pedestrian accidents happen quite frequently in California and around the country. Pedestrians are injured or killed every day in traffic accidents and many of these victims are children. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a pedestrian is killed in a traffic accident every 111 minutes.
As with any kind of accident, your first priority should be to get immediate medical attention. You should also file a police report and get the name, driver’s license number, vehicle description and insurance information from each person involved. Always get contact information and statements from any witnesses. If it is safe to do so, take photographs of the accident scene, damaged property, and injuries. Speaking to an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible will also help protect your rights and preserve the value of your claim.
Causation is often a contentious issue in pedestrian accident cases. Drivers frequently claim that the victim jumped out in front of the car or that the pedestrian was not looking before walking out into the street. Determining the exact cause of a pedestrian accident can be difficult and it is important to preserve whatever evidence is available in good condition. An experienced attorney will use witness statements, traffic camera images, photographs, accident reconstruction experts and other scientific techniques to help establish causation.
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents frequently involve serious injuries and severe pain and suffering because the pedestrian has virtually no protection from an impact. Head injuries, neck and back injuries, broken bones, and even death are common. Scarring and plastic surgery may be required in many cases. Such severe injuries can have lifelong consequences, mentally, physically and financially.
The economic damages resulting from a pedestrian accident can be extensive depending on the level of injury. As with most accident cases, recoverable damages may include past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. There may be other damages available depending on the particular facts of a given case. It is important to understand that claims related to pedestrian accidents are subject to various Statutes Of Limitation which limit the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact The Scranton Law Firm today for a free consultation.
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