Here are just some of the ways a pedestrian car accident lawyer helps injured crash victims and the families of fatal pedestrian accident victims:
- Investigate. After a pedestrian accident, it is important to determine the cause of the crash in order to hold the responsible party accountable. This is where a pedestrian accident lawyer can be instrumental. An attorney can investigate the accident, collect evidence, and determine the cause of the crash. Common causes of pedestrian accidents include distracted driving, failure to yield to pedestrians, turning at intersections without looking both ways, and speeding. In some cases, design defects in crosswalk locations can also contribute to pedestrian accidents. A lawyer can investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and identify the responsible parties.
- Protect and collect evidence. Collecting and preserving evidence is crucial in pedestrian accident cases. A lot of important crash evidence can disappear quickly. A lawyer can locate evidence and file subpoenas or “spoilation letters” to prevent the documents from being destroyed. Examples of evidence that may be collected in a pedestrian accident case include:
- Witness statements.
- Surveillance video footage.
- Police reports.
- Medical records.
- Photographs of the accident scene.
- Expert engineering and accident reconstruction testimony.
- ID all potential liable parties. In many cases, the driver of the vehicle may be held responsible for the accident. However, there may be other liable parties as well. For example, if the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle, the manufacturer of a defective part may be held responsible. If the driver was distracted by a passenger in their vehicle, that passenger may be liable. If a commercial truck was involved, a trucking company or cargo owner may be liable. By identifying all potential liable parties, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help their clients receive the maximum amount of compensation possible. Even if one liable party is uninsured or underinsured, the others may have significant assets to pay for damages.
- Calculate maximum compensation. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer understands the long-term effects of the accident on the victim's life. They will take into account any ongoing medical treatment or physical therapy needed, as well as any future medical expenses when calculating a compensation package. They will also consider the victim's loss of enjoyment of life and any future earning potential that may have been affected by the accident. Furthermore, a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer will work to ensure that the compensation package places the highest value on care and comfort for the victim.
- File a claim or lawsuit. Filing a claim for a pedestrian accident can be a complex and overwhelming process for injured victims, but not for an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer with a track record of success. They understand the legal requirements, deadlines, and evidence necessary to win big.
- Negotiate aggressively for results. Insurance companies often refuse to offer fair settlements. It may take aggressive negotiation tactics and a strategically filed lawsuit to get the compensation and justice injured pedestrians deserve. Experienced car accident and pedestrian crash lawyers understand that to win they must be relentless in pursuing results.