Question 1

What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, prioritize your health. Seek immediate medical attention, even if you don't feel injured. Some injuries may not manifest immediately. Contact local authorities to report the accident and ensure an official report is made. If possible, gather evidence from the scene, including photographs, witness information, and details of the vehicle involved. Lastly, consider contacting a lawyer to discuss your rights and potential compensation.

Question 2

How can I receive compensation if I was hit by a car while walking?

Accepted Answer

You can potentially receive compensation through insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits. Typically, the at-fault party's insurance should cover your medical bills and other related expenses. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you might need to file a claim with your own insurance or consider a personal injury lawsuit. Consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your options.

Question 3

Who is responsible for my medical bills if I am hit by a car while walking?

Accepted Answer

Typically, the driver's auto insurance should cover your medical expenses if they are at fault. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance or health coverage might be used. However, in some cases, a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to recoup costs. It's important to consult with a legal professional to understand your options.

Question 4

How do I prove that the driver is at fault if I am hit by a car while walking?

Accepted Answer

Proving fault often involves collecting and presenting evidence such as surveillance video, witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony. Factors like the driver's speed, disregard for traffic rules, or intoxication could be evidence of their fault. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you gather necessary evidence and build a strong case.

Question 5

What are the long-term effects of being hit by a car while walking?

Accepted Answer

Long-term effects can vary greatly depending on the severity of the accident. They can range from chronic pain and mobility issues, to cognitive problems and emotional trauma. This is why it's crucial to seek immediate and thorough medical attention after an accident. If you're facing long-term effects, you may be entitled to compensation for future medical costs, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.

Question 6

How much does a pedestrian accident lawyer cost?

Accepted Answer

Most pedestrian accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. Their fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or judgement. This allows victims to seek legal help without upfront cost. However, fees can vary, so it's important to discuss this with any potential lawyer.

Question 7

How can a pedestrian accident lawyer help me?

Accepted Answer

A pedestrian accident lawyer can provide a range of services, including investigating your case, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary. They can guide you through complex legal procedures, help you understand your rights and options, and work to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries and related expenses.

Question 8

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Accepted Answer

Even if you were partially at fault, you might still be able to receive compensation. Many jurisdictions operate under comparative negligence laws, which means that compensation can be reduced based on the percentage of your fault. However, this can be complex and often requires legal expertise to navigate.

Question 9

What if the driver fled the scene?

Accepted Answer

In a hit-and-run scenario, you may be able to claim compensation from your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. A personal injury lawyer can guide you through this process and help you explore other possible avenues for compensation.

Question 10

How long do I have to file a claim?

Accepted Answer

The time limit, or "statute of limitations," for filing a personal injury claim varies by jurisdiction. It's often within one to three years from the date of the accident, but this can differ. It's critical to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you don't miss this deadline.

Question 11

How much money could I get if I was hit by a car while walking?

Accepted Answer

The compensation you could receive depends on a variety of factors such as the severity of your injuries, the degree of the driver's fault, your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the impact of the accident on your life. Every case is unique, so it's challenging to predict a specific amount without a thorough case evaluation. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help estimate potential compensation based on the specifics of your case.

Question 12

What if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one?

Accepted Answer

In such tragic circumstances, the family of the deceased may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This could potentially provide compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, loss of companionship, and other related damages. It's highly recommended to consult with a legal professional experienced in wrongful death cases to navigate this complex process.

Question 13

What rights do I have as a pedestrian?

Accepted Answer

As a pedestrian, you have the right to a duty of care from drivers, meaning they are obligated to drive in a way that doesn't put you at unnecessary risk. If a driver fails to uphold this duty, resulting in an accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and related damages. Your rights can be better explained by a legal professional based on the specifics of your case and your jurisdiction.

Question 14

Should I accept the insurance company's initial offer?

Accepted Answer

It's generally recommended not to accept the initial offer from an insurance company without first consulting with a lawyer. Initial offers can often be lower than what you may be entitled to, as insurance companies aim to settle claims as quickly and inexpensively as possible. A lawyer can help you understand the true value of your claim and negotiate a fairer settlement.

Best Pedestrian Accidents Attorneys in Seattle

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Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents

What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?

How can I receive compensation if I was hit by a car while walking?

Who is responsible for my medical bills if I am hit by a car while walking?

How do I prove that the driver is at fault if I am hit by a car while walking?

What are the long-term effects of being hit by a car while walking?

How much does a pedestrian accident lawyer cost?

How can a pedestrian accident lawyer help me?

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

What if the driver fled the scene?

How long do I have to file a claim?

How much money could I get if I was hit by a car while walking?

What if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one?

What rights do I have as a pedestrian?

Should I accept the insurance company's initial offer?

Table of Contents:

You’re our first priority. Every time.

Best Pedestrian Accidents Attorneys in Seattle

Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents

What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?

How can I receive compensation if I was hit by a car while walking?

Who is responsible for my medical bills if I am hit by a car while walking?

How do I prove that the driver is at fault if I am hit by a car while walking?

What are the long-term effects of being hit by a car while walking?

How much does a pedestrian accident lawyer cost?

How can a pedestrian accident lawyer help me?

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

What if the driver fled the scene?

How long do I have to file a claim?

How much money could I get if I was hit by a car while walking?

What if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one?

What rights do I have as a pedestrian?

Should I accept the insurance company's initial offer?

Table of Contents:

You’re our first priority.
Every time.