Pedestrian accidents resulting in death are on the rise. The number of people who were killed while walking on streets and highways throughout the United States surged by 27% from 2007 to 2016, according to a new report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). During that same period, other traffic deaths decreased by 14%.
California registered the highest number of pedestrian fatalities among all the states in the first half of 2017, with 352 recorded fatalities. In contrast, Wyoming and Hawaii both registered one death during the same period.
What Are the Main Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
Although drivers and pedestrians are expected to obey existing traffic laws, they’re often broken. Driving under the influence, texting while driving, and speeding are some of the main causes of pedestrian accidents due to drivers’ negligence. Pedestrians, on the other hand, can cause accidents when they fail to follow signals at intersections, dart in front of vehicles, and fail to use marked crosswalks.
Considering the alarming prevalence of vehicle accidents involving pedestrians, what measures should you take if it befalls you or your loved ones?
Gather Evidence to Support Your Pedestrian Accident Claims
Victims of a pedestrian accident are obliged to support their allegations with sufficient evidence. To establish a solid case against the party at fault, take the following steps:
- Immediately following the accident, contact the paramedics to be treated.
- Call the authorities to investigate the accident.
- Take pictures of the accident site and your injuries.
- Seek medical treatment and keep a record of bills, including recommendations for future medical care.
- Track immediate expenses and other losses.
- Hire legal representation to assist you in your claims.
Undergo Medical Evaluations and Treatments
Make sure to undergo proper medical evaluations and treatments following a pedestrian accident. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent following an accident and only show up later on. Medical evaluations—including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs—may be necessary to ascertain the extent of your injuries.
Rehabilitative measures include chiropractic and orthopaedic treatments, pain management, surgeries, and post-operative care, just to name a few. These medical procedures are costly, which is why the party at fault must be held accountable for all the losses, injuries, and expenses you’ve unjustly suffered.
Damages You Can Claim Following a Pedestrian Accident
Victims of a pedestrian accident could seek the following damages against the party at fault:
- Property damage
- Present and future medical costs
- Loss of earnings
- Out of pocket expenses
- Pain and suffering
Getting hit by a car often results in serious injuries, with the most severe leading to death. If the latter occurs, the surviving family members can also claim loss of consortium, funeral expenses, and even punitive damages against the negligent party.
Hire a Top Pedestrian Accident Attorney to Obtain Just Recompense
If you’re serious about pursuing a successful claim against the party at fault, you’ll need the help of an experienced and competent pedestrian accident attorney. The attorneys at Los Angeles-based Mesriani Law Group have decades of experience representing personal injury victims in Los Angeles and California. They’ll work tirelessly to ensure that you’re awarded the claim you deserve to cover all your losses, expenses, and suffering
