Suffering an injury due to a motorized vehicle can result in broken bones, long-term physical damage, and even death.
If you know someone who has recently become the victim of a pedestrian accident in Washington State, continue reading to learn what next steps to take next or get in touch with The Jones Firm to schedule a consultation with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer.
What Do Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Do?
Pedestrian accident attorneys are responsible for handling personal injury claims relating to pedestrian and vehicle accidents.
Due to the severity of the injuries that pedestrians can sustain if they are struck by a vehicle, all victims of pedestrian accidents need to have a seasoned pedestrian accident lawyer on their side during the ensuing legal process.
Pedestrian accident attorneys are well-versed in traffic law and understand all the legalities and traffic implications that play a part in determining the insurance settlement outcome of the injured pedestrian.
Pedestrian accident lawyers also work with the driver’s insurance company and collect evidence to establish who was at fault for the traffic accident.
Benefits Of Partnering With Pedestrian Accident Law Firms
What are the advantages of partnering with a pedestrian accident law firm during the legal process?
Reasons you need a pedestrian accident lawyer during a pedestrian accident case include:
- Pedestrian accident attorneys help establish who is at fault for the accident.
- Accident attorneys take into account all of the factors that contribute to the final settlement number. They consider present and future medical expenses, time taken off of work, pain and suffering, etc.
- Pedestrian accident lawyers ensure that the case is brought to the speediest resolution possible.
- Partnering with a lawyer ensures that the legal stress is taken off of the shoulders of the pedestrian accident victims so that they can devote their energy to recovery.
- Pedestrian accident attorneys are needed to protect the current and future financial well-being of the victim.
- Working with an accident attorney ensures that you have someone who knows how to talk with insurance adjusters and others involved in the case. Attorneys understand what to say and what not to say while a pedestrian accident case is underway.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
What are some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
Some of the typical culprits of pedestrian accidents include:
- DUIs
- Distracted or negligent driving
- Failure to obey traffic lights or signals
- Speeding
- Poor road lighting
- Poor weather conditions
- Failure to look before driving over a crosswalk
Understanding Fault and Legal Rights
Determining fault in pedestrian accidents is crucial and often complex, involving the analysis of various factors, including the actions of both the driver and the pedestrian. In many cases, fault may not rest with one party alone.
Shared responsibility can occur if a pedestrian is jaywalking or a driver is speeding, for example. Understanding these nuances is essential in accurately assessing liability and pursuing fair compensation.
Pedestrians have specific rights after an accident, which are protected under local and state laws. These rights include receiving timely medical attention, pursuing compensation for serious injuries and other damages, and the right to legal representation.
Our law firm is adept at navigating these rights, ensuring that you are fully aware of your legal options and the support available to you.
With our expert legal support, you can confidently navigate the claims process. We help clarify your rights, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our commitment is to provide you with comprehensive legal assistance that upholds your rights and secures the best possible outcome for your case.
Common Injuries That Pedestrians Sustain
The range of injuries that a pedestrian may suffer from varies dramatically. They can be extremely severe or appear benign.
Regardless of how seemingly mild your injuries may seem, it’s essential to still pursue financial compensation for medical expenses, as injuries can become more serious than they at first appear.
Some common injuries sustained by pedestrians include:
- Broken bones
- Deep bruising
- Skin lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Back and neck injuries
Costs That Injured Pedestrians Should Be Compensated For
Suffering a pedestrian injury can result in a high number of costs that a victim shouldn’t be expected to pay for.
Some of the costs that injured pedestrians often find themselves facing include:
- Ambulance costs
- Emergency room costs
- Medical bills (physical therapy, rehabilitative care, doctor visits, chiropractor visits, etc.)
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
- Temporary or permanent physical impairment
- Skin grafting costs
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of enjoyment from life
- Lost wages (present and future)
- Loss of companionship (family members of the victim may request compensation for this if their loved one sustains a TBI that changes their personality)
Legal Support and Representation
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be complex and overwhelming. That’s where the expertise of a dedicated legal team becomes indispensable. Our law firm provides robust legal support and representation tailored specifically to the nuances of pedestrian accident cases.
We begin with a thorough case evaluation, where we assess the details of your incident and establish a foundation for your claim.
Evidence collection is a critical next step. Our legal professionals are skilled in gathering the necessary documentation, from accident scene photos to witness statements, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. This meticulous approach extends to interactions with medical professionals and law enforcement to build a compelling case on your behalf.
Should your case proceed to court, our attorneys are prepared to represent you robustly. We leverage our deep understanding of local traffic laws and pedestrian rights to advocate for your best interests.
Our local expertise not only enhances our ability to navigate the legal landscape but also reinforces our commitment to securing justice for our clients.
By choosing our firm, you gain more than legal assistance; you gain a partner dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case, ensuring that you are supported every step of the way.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident
If you find yourself involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward can significantly affect the outcome of any potential legal claim and, more importantly, your health. Here is a step-by-step guide to follow after an accident:
- Ensure Your Safety: Move to a safe location if you can. If moving might cause further injury, stay put and signal to others for help.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it is crucial to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical record serves as important documentation for your case.
- Report the Accident: Call the police at the scene so that an official report can be filed. This report can be vital in legal proceedings and insurance claims.
- Gather Information: If possible, collect contact information from any witnesses, as well as from the driver involved. Take photos of the scene, including any street signs, vehicle damages, and your injuries.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Be cautious about discussing the accident with anyone other than the police or your attorney. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you in a legal context.
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all medical visits, treatments received, and how your injuries impact your daily life and work.
- Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney: Consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and the best course of action to take. They can provide guidance on how to proceed with insurance claims and any potential legal action.
Tips For Injured Pedestrians
In order to avoid mistakes that could diminish your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries, here are four helpful tips:
- Avoid posting on social media about the accident
- Avoid talking with anyone who is not your lawyer about the case
- Get in contact with a pedestrian accident attorney as soon as you can after the accident
- See a doctor immediately and have them provide you with medical documentation for your injuries
Contact Our Pedestrian Injury Lawyer Today
If you are ready to get the legal assistance that your situation requires and deserves, get in touch with The Jones Firm today.
Dax Jones, Managing Attorney and Founder of The Jones Firm has been working with victims of pedestrian accidents for the past decade. He possesses the experience, empathy, and expertise to assist victims of personal injuries in pursuing just compensation for their injuries.
To schedule a consultation with our pedestrian injury attorney, get in touch with The Jones Firm today.
We are local:
King County Areas Of Practice:
- King County Truck Accident Attorneys
- Catastrophic Injury Attorneys King County
- King County Construction Accident Injury Attorneys
- Car Accident Attorneys King County
- King County Bicycle Accident Injury Attorneys
King County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
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