When you’re out enjoying the nice weather on foot, you never expect to be hit by a moving vehicle. Unfortunately, when a pedestrian accident occurs, it is the pedestrian that suffers the worst of the injuries. With likely ongoing medical bills and an extended time away from work, pursuing legal options might be necessary to cover these costs.

Important Steps to Take Following a Pedestrian Accident

A pedestrian accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and confused. While seeking medical care is the most important step to initially consider, it is important to then consider your legal options in the event that you need any financial assistance with your medical care. These steps are important following a pedestrian accident:

• Seek medical care: Regardless of the extent of your injuries, it is a good idea to seek medical care following a pedestrian accident. It is possible that your injuries might not show up until later and by then, it may be difficult to determine that the accident was the cause. Also, the other party might argue that your injuries are not severe if you didn’t receive immediate care.
• Gather evidence: Initial evidence, like photographs or videos from the scene of the accident, can help your case later on.
• Collect contact information of any witnesses: Witnesses might also be important to your case to determine what happened.
• Discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer: When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, you’re going to be focused on more important things.

Focus on your health and recovery and leave the legal actions to a lawyer who is familiar with Pennsylvania’s personal injury laws. Be sure to check out our other blog – 4 steps to take after dealing with a personal injury – for more information on this subject.

Following these listed steps will ensure that you not only receive the medical care that you need, but that you also begin to gather the important documents that will help your case.

Recoverable Damages in a Pedestrian Case

When a pedestrian accident occurs, you will find that the medical bills quickly pile up. If you’re unable to work, you may find it difficult to pay your rent or to keep your utilities on. Your personal injury lawyer will work hard to recover the following types of costs in your pedestrian accident case:

• Medical bills
• Rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages
• Property damages
• Insurance copays
• Mobility costs
• Temporary transportation costs
• Temporary childcare costs

If another individual was responsible for your pedestrian accident, then it is only right that they cover the costs that you incur.

Determining Negligence in a Pedestrian Accident

In most cases, if the accident is between a driver and a pedestrian, it is the driver that is liable for the damages. Drivers are responsible for monitoring the road at all times and ensuring that they give the right of way to pedestrians. Unfortunately, if you follow the news, you will find that pedestrian accidents in Pennsylvania are continually increasing.

Many of these accidents are caused by a driver acting negligently. If the driver fails to pay attention or commits an illegal action at the time of the accident, then they may be responsible for the damages. Whether another driver was driving under the influence, texting and driving, failed to follow state laws, or failed to consider the weather conditions, they could be found negligent and liable for your damages.

Contact a Greensburg Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Pedestrian Accident Case in Pennsylvania

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a pedestrian accident in Pennsylvania? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The Law Office of Mark A. Smith represents clients injured because of a pedestrian accident in Pittsburgh, Homestead, Erie, Greensburg, and throughout Pennsylvania. Call (412) 368-8398 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.