The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation After a Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. In the aftermath of such an accident, the injured person or their family may be left dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Seeking legal representation after a pedestrian accident is crucial to protect the victim’s rights and secure compensation for damages.

It is important to seek legal representation after a pedestrian accident for several reasons. First and foremost, an attorney will ensure that the victim’s rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent the victim in court if necessary. Additionally, an attorney can help the victim understand their legal options and determine the best course of action to pursue compensation for damages.

Unfortunately, insurance companies often try to settle pedestrian accident cases quickly and for as little money as possible. Victims may be taken advantage of without legal representation and not receive the full compensation they deserve. Therefore, seeking legal representation after a pedestrian accident is essential to ensure that the victim’s rights are protected, and they receive fair compensation for their damages.

Understanding Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents can be devastating and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. These accidents occur when a pedestrian is hit by a motor vehicle, bicycle, or other transportation mode. Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere, but they are more common in urban areas with more foot traffic.

Several common causes of pedestrian accidents include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, and negligent driving. Distracted driving, such as texting or talking on the phone while driving, is a significant cause of pedestrian accidents. Speeding is another common cause of pedestrian accidents, as it reduces the amount of time drivers have to react to pedestrians.

Drunk driving is also a leading cause of pedestrian accidents. When a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their reaction time is significantly slowed, and they may be unable to avoid hitting a pedestrian. Reckless driving, such as running red lights or failing to yield to pedestrians, is another common cause of pedestrian accidents.

Negligent motorists who fail to pay attention to their surroundings or who do not follow traffic laws can also cause pedestrian accidents. Negligent driving can include failing to stop at crosswalks, failing to signal before turning or failing to look both ways before entering an intersection.

In conclusion, pedestrian accidents can be caused by various factors, including distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, and negligent driving. It is essential for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and to follow traffic laws to prevent pedestrian accidents. If a pedestrian is involved in an accident, seeking legal representation can help protect their rights and secure compensation for damages.

The Role of Legal Representation

Legal representation plays a crucial role for pedestrian accident victims seeking compensation. An experienced attorney can provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring that the victims’ rights are protected and receive fair compensation for their injuries.

One of the primary roles of legal representation is to assess the victim’s case and determine the best course of action. This may involve negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action against the responsible party. An attorney can also help the victim understand their legal options and make informed decisions about their case.

In addition to providing legal guidance, an attorney can also handle the administrative tasks associated with the case. This includes filing paperwork, communicating with insurance companies, and gathering evidence to support the victim’s claim.

When seeking legal representation, choosing an attorney with experience in personal injury cases is important. A personal injury attorney will have the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that the victim receives the compensation they deserve.

Legal representation is essential for pedestrian accident victims seeking justice and fair compensation. By working with an experienced attorney, victims can focus on their recovery while their case is handled with care and expertise.

Establishing Fault and Liability

After a pedestrian accident, establishing fault and liability is crucial to determining who is responsible for compensating the injured party. In most cases, the at-fault driver is responsible for the accident and must pay for the damages. However, determining fault can be a complicated process that requires the expertise of a legal professional.

Fault

To establish fault, the injured party must prove that the driver owed them a legal duty to exercise reasonable care and that the driver breached that duty. This can include actions such as speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to yield to pedestrians. If the driver’s breach of duty caused the accident and the pedestrian’s injuries, then the driver may be found at fault.

Liability

Liability refers to the legal responsibility of the at-fault driver to compensate the injured party for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In most cases, the driver’s insurance company will be responsible for paying these damages. However, if the driver is uninsured or underinsured, the injured party may need to pursue legal action to recover compensation.

Comparative Negligence

In some cases, the injured party may be partially at fault for the accident. This is known as comparative negligence and can affect the amount of compensation the injured party can receive. For example, if the pedestrian was jaywalking at the time of the accident, they may be found partially at fault for their injuries.

At-Fault Driver

When pursuing legal action, it is important to identify the at-fault driver and their insurance company. This can be challenging if the driver fled the scene or if there were multiple vehicles involved in the accident. A legal professional can help investigate the accident and determine who is responsible for compensating the injured party.

Overall, establishing fault and liability is a critical aspect of seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident. It requires a thorough investigation of the accident and the expertise of a legal professional.

Importance of Gathering Evidence

After a pedestrian accident, gathering evidence is crucial to building a strong case. Evidence can be used to prove liability, establish damages, and negotiate a fair settlement. Collecting as much evidence as possible while still fresh and available is essential.

One of the most important pieces of evidence is photographs. Photographs can help establish the accident’s severity and the injuries extent. They can also document the accident’s location, the roadway’s condition, and any hazards that may have contributed to the accident. It is important to take photographs from different angles and distances to capture as much detail as possible.

Another crucial piece of evidence is contact information. This includes the contact information of all parties involved in the accident and any witnesses. Contact information can be used to follow up with witnesses and gather further testimony. It can also be used to negotiate a settlement with the other party’s insurance company.

A police report is also an important piece of evidence. The police report can help establish liability and provide important details about the accident, such as the time and location, the weather conditions, and any citations issued. It is important to obtain a copy of the police report as soon as possible after the accident.

Witness statements can also be valuable evidence. Witness statements can provide additional details about the accident that other evidence may not capture. It is important to obtain witness statements as soon as possible after the accident while the details are still fresh in the witness’s mind.

Surveillance footage can also be used as evidence in a pedestrian accident case. Surveillance footage can provide a clear view of the accident and help establish liability. It is important to obtain any available surveillance footage as soon as possible after the accident.

Finally, witness testimony can be a valuable form of evidence. Witness testimony can provide additional details about the accident and help establish liability. It is important to obtain witness testimony as soon as possible after the accident while the details are still fresh in the witness’s mind.

In conclusion, gathering evidence is crucial after a pedestrian accident. Evidence can be used to establish liability, prove damages, and negotiate a fair settlement. Collecting as much evidence as possible while it is still fresh and available is important. This includes photographs, contact information, police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and witness testimony.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

After a pedestrian accident, dealing with insurance companies can be a daunting task. Insurance companies will often try to minimize the compensation they pay out, which can leave the victim with inadequate funds to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. It is important to understand the insurance claim process and how to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

The first step in dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident is to report the accident to your insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It is important to provide accurate and detailed information about the accident, including any injuries sustained and the extent of property damage. Be sure to obtain a copy of the police report and any medical records related to the accident.

It is also important to be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters. Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and their primary goal is to minimize the compensation paid to the victim. They may try to get the victim to admit fault or downplay the extent of their injuries. It is important to consult with a personal injury attorney before giving any statements to the insurance company.

When negotiating with insurance companies, it is important to clearly understand the value of your personal injury claim. This includes calculating the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine the value of your claim and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.

In some cases, insurance companies may try to deny the claim or offer a settlement significantly lower than the claim’s value. In these situations, it may be necessary to file a lawsuit to seek fair compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

Overall, dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be a complex and challenging. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the insurance claim process and how to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected.

Understanding Your Rights and Legal Process

After a pedestrian accident, it is essential to understand your legal rights and the legal process that will follow. Seeking legal representation can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.

One of your most important rights after a pedestrian accident is the right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. This compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident. However, legal processes must be followed to obtain this compensation.

The legal process typically begins with filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. This lawsuit must be filed within a certain timeframe, known as the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations varies by state and can range from one to six years. It is important to consult with a lawyer after the accident as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss this deadline.

Once a lawsuit is filed, the case will go through the legal system. This can include mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Sometimes, a jury may be involved, and a judge will make the final decision. The jurisdiction in which the case is heard will also depend on the location of the accident and other factors.

Throughout this legal process, it is important to have legal representation to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer can help you negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence to support your case and represent you in court if necessary.

In conclusion, understanding your rights and the legal process after a pedestrian accident is crucial. Seeking legal representation can help you navigate this process and ensure that your rights are protected.

The Role of Medical Attention and Expenses

After a pedestrian accident, medical attention is crucial, even if the injuries do not appear severe. Some injuries may not manifest themselves immediately, and a delay in treatment can worsen the condition. Seeking medical attention also provides documentation of the injuries sustained, which is essential when filing a claim for compensation.

Medical bills and expenses can quickly pile up after a pedestrian accident, especially for severe injuries. Medical expenses include emergency services, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. Without proper legal representation, the injured party may have to bear the burden of these expenses themselves, which can be financially devastating.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help the injured party seek compensation for medical expenses. The lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies and the responsible party to ensure the injured party receives adequate compensation for their medical bills. In some cases, the injured party may be entitled to compensation for future medical expenses if the injuries require ongoing medical care.

It is imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident. Medical professionals can assess the extent of the injuries and provide the necessary treatment. Seeking legal representation can also help the injured party navigate the legal process and ensure that they receive adequate compensation for their medical bills and expenses.

Compensation After Pedestrian Accident

After a pedestrian accident, the injured person may experience physical, emotional, and financial losses. Seeking legal representation can help them recover compensation for these damages.

Compensation is the financial payment that an injured person receives for their losses. It includes both economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses refer to the financial losses incurred by the injured person, while non-economic losses refer to the physical and emotional pain and suffering they experience.

Compensation for damages includes medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Medical expenses include all the costs of treating injuries sustained in the pedestrian accident. Lost wages refer to the income the injured person lost due to their inability to work because of the injuries sustained in the accident.

Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress that the injured person experiences due to the accident. It includes the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Emotional distress is another type of non-economic loss that an injured person may experience after a pedestrian accident. It refers to the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Financial compensation seeks fair compensation to the injured person for their losses. The maximum compensation that an injured person can receive depends on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the accident.

In conclusion, seeking legal representation after a pedestrian accident can help the injured person recover compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial losses. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney to ensure the injured person receives fair compensation for their damages.

The Process of Filing a Claim

After a pedestrian accident, seeking legal representation can help an individual navigate the complex process of filing a claim. Filing a claim involves several steps, and it is essential to follow each step carefully to ensure success.

The first step in filing a claim is to gather all relevant evidence related to the accident. This includes things like photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and witness statements. An experienced attorney can help an individual gather this evidence and ensure that it is admissible in court.

Once all the evidence has been gathered, the claim can be filed. The claim process involves submitting a demand letter to the responsible party’s insurance company. This letter outlines the damages suffered by the victim and the compensation sought.

After receiving the demand letter, the insurance company will begin its investigation. The investigation will include reviewing the evidence and may involve a deposition of the victim. The insurance company may also make a settlement offer to the victim.

If the victim accepts the settlement offer, the case will be resolved through an out-of-court settlement. However, the case may proceed to trial if the victim rejects the settlement offer.

At trial, the victim’s attorney will present evidence to prove the responsible party’s negligence and the damages suffered by the victim. The court will then determine the amount of compensation that the victim is entitled to receive.

In summary, filing a claim after a pedestrian accident involves several steps and can be complex. Seeking legal representation can help individuals navigate this process and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Choosing the Right Attorney

After a pedestrian accident, choosing the right attorney is crucial for obtaining compensation for damages. Here are some tips for finding the right attorney:

• Look for an attorney with experience in personal injury law, particularly in cases involving pedestrian accidents. An experienced attorney will have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle the legal aspects of your case.
  
• Look for an attorney with a track record of success in obtaining client compensation. This can indicate their ability to negotiate with insurance companies and obtain fair client settlements.
  
• Consider the attorney’s reputation in the legal community. A reputable attorney will have a positive reputation among their peers and may be able to leverage this reputation to your advantage.
  
• Consider the attorney’s availability. You want an attorney who can answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
  
• Consider whether the attorney works on a contingency basis. The attorney will only be paid if they win your case. This can be a good option if you are concerned about the cost of legal representation.
  
• Consider the attorney’s contingency fee. The attorney will take this percentage of your settlement as their fee. Make sure you understand the fee structure before hiring an attorney.
  

Choosing the right attorney is essential for obtaining the compensation you deserve after a pedestrian accident. By finding an experienced, reputable attorney who works on a contingency basis, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Terhovsepian Law

Terhovsepian Law is a personal injury law firm located in Glendale, California. Our firm represents clients injured in accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, buses, commercial vehicles, pedestrians, and premises liability cases such as slip and falls or construction accidents.

The legal team at Terhovsepian Law is dedicated to providing exceptional representation to our clients. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a personal injury can take on a person and their loved ones. That’s why we work tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s vital to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The team at Terhovsepian Law can help you navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. We offer a free consultation to all potential clients, so you can discuss your case with an experienced attorney and better understand your options.

To schedule your free consultation with Terhovsepian Law, call (818) 900-7370 or visit our website to complete a contact form. 

Conclusion

Seeking legal representation after a pedestrian accident is crucial for victims and their families. It can help them recover physically, emotionally, and financially. The right attorney can provide peace of mind to victims by handling the legal aspects of their case and ensuring that the responsible party is held accountable for their actions.

Legal representation can also protect victims’ rights and ensure that they receive fair compensation for their damages. Attorneys can provide legal guidance and support, from filing a claim to negotiating a settlement or going to trial.

Overall, victims of pedestrian accidents should not hesitate to seek legal representation. It can significantly affect the outcome of their case and their ability to recover from their injuries. Victims can focus on their recovery with the right attorney while their legal team handles the rest.