Pedestrian accidents pose a concern in numerous urban areas worldwide. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 6,000 pedestrian fatalities and over 100,000 pedestrian injuries resulting from motor vehicle crashes solely within the United States in 2017. These statistics underscore the significance of advocating for pedestrians and their entitlement to compensation following an accident. This plays a key role in supporting pedestrians who have suffered injuries or fatalities due to collisions with motor vehicles.
Wondering how to receive legal aid when injured in a pedestrian accident? This article will delve into the importance of assistance in pedestrian accident claims and how it can safeguard the rights of victims.
Understanding Pedestrian Accidents
Accidents occur when individuals on foot are struck by motor vehicles, often leading to injuries or loss of life. Additionally, collisions can also transpire between cyclists and pedestrians, resulting in harm. Compared to road users, pedestrians face more risks as they lack substantial protection against significantly larger and heavier vehicles. Furthermore, their vulnerability is heightened by the absence of designated lanes that separate them from traffic.
When a pedestrian is injured or killed due to someone’s negligence, they have the right to seek compensation through proceedings. To pursue compensation, one must file an accident claim against the driver. Once filed, both parties involved—the pedestrian (referred to as the plaintiff) and the driver (referred to as the defendant)—must provide evidence supporting their respective positions regarding what transpired during the incident.
This process requires an understanding of injury law and civil procedure rules, which are typically unfamiliar to legal individuals. This is where legal aid becomes crucial. Lawyers play an important role in helping clients prepare for their cases by developing strategies that can greatly impact the outcome within a framework.
The Role of Legal Aid in Pedestrian Accident Claims
Legal aid holds importance in pedestrian accident cases. The expertise and knowledge of advocates are essential for investigating accident circumstances, collecting evidence, and filing claims. Moreover, they provide guidance on how to proceed with the case.
Here are some additional ways in which lawyers can assist:
- Filing Claims: Lawyers can help victims file their accident claims within the timeframe before they expire.
- Dealing with insurance companies: It’s important to be aware that the defendant’s insurance company might offer settlements according to their policies. However, accepting these settlements could potentially limit the amount of compensation you receive, which may not cover all your losses, such as expenses and lost wages. It would be beneficial to have an attorney communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive appropriate compensation by assessing your claim.
- Investigations: Handling investigations can be challenging if you don’t have expertise in personal injury law or litigation strategy. Knowing where and when to gather documentation related to an accident requires experience. A lawyer can effectively and efficiently handle this task in favor of protecting your rights during the investigation process while also safeguarding you from making any statements that might hinder your pursuit of justice.
- Evidence Gathering: Building evidence is another aspect that can burden individuals after a pedestrian collision event. Documenting details about the scene, including taking photographs and tracking down witnesses who can positively impact your case, are tasks best entrusted to a lawyer. They are experienced enough to handle these responsibilities without causing frustrations or disrupting progress.
When pedestrian accidents end up in court trials, many affected parties have no choice but to seek representation. Having legal counsel who is well-versed in arguing relevant laws becomes their best hope for a favorable outcome.
In Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents can have severe consequences, including injuries or even fatalities. It is crucial to have the support of experts who are well-versed in personal injury law and understand the complexities of civil procedure rules. Seeking assistance not only ensures that victims’ rights are protected but also enables them to pursue compensation for the damages they have suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence.
