Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are a rather common occurrence. Because vehicles and walkers must share the roads at times, accidents are bound to happen. Pedestrian accidents often cause serious injury and even death. It is important to be vigilant whether you are a driver or a pedestrian. Read on to learn more about what to do if a pedestrian accident occurs.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can be caused by a number of factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Speeding
- Drunk drivers
- Reckless drivers
- Obstructed visibility due to foliage and other objects
- Poor road conditions, such as closed sidewalks or lack of crosswalks
- Weather conditions, such as snow, ice, heavy fog, or rain
Types of Compensation
Injuries can take a serious toll financially, physically, and mentally. As a result, there are two types of compensation you may be able to recover. This includes:
- Economic damages: medical expenses, lost wages, the cost of rehabilitation, the need to hire in-home care, and more.
- Non-economic damages: pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
How to Recover Compensation
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, you should contact 911 right away. The police can call an ambulance for you, file a report, conduct chemical tests, and collect witness statements. While waiting for the ambulance, you should document the scene. This may include taking video and photo of the accident. You should ask the driver for his or her contact information, and you should also obtain the contact information of any bystanders. When at the hospital, ask your doctor for any relevant medical documents. This will provide evidence of the origin and extent of your injuries.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim?
In New Jersey, you will have to file your personal injury claim within a certain amount of time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. Generally, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in New Jersey is two years. This means that if you fail to file your claim in time, you will likely lose your opportunity to recover compensation. To avoid missing any important deadlines, reach out to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our firm today.
CONTACT OUR FIRM
If you have been the victim of the negligence of another in an automobile accident, please contact my office as quickly as possible following the subject accident. It is important to consult with us early on so that we may begin the process of fighting for your rights in regard to any potential claim that you may have. The process is complicated and requires the expertise of a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney. CONTACT US TODAY!