When a vehicle hits a pedestrian, the result can be devastating. If you survive the impact, you could end up with serious injuries. But you might not need to face the financial burden alone. By seeking compensation, you have a chance of receiving money for your medical bills and other expenses. Find out what you need to do for compensation from pedestrian accidents.
What Should You Do?
In 2013, 66,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents. Many of those accidents were the fault of the drivers. However, the victims don’t always realize they are eligible for compensation.
If you want to receive compensation for your accident, there are a few steps you need to take. Follow these tips to be on your way towards compensation:
1. Call the Police
Immediately after the accident, you should contact the police. When they get to the scene, they will write up a police report and document everything. If your request for compensation goes to court, then the police report could help your case.
2. Document Everything
You should also do some of your own documentation. Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicle, the scene of the accident, and your own visible injuries.
If there are any witnesses, write down their names. They could have useful information about the accident. If they saw the other driver do anything wrong, then their testimony could help you receive compensation.
3. Seek Medical Attention
After the accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even a seemingly minor injury could be serious. You need to see a doctor ensure that you don’t have any severe injuries.
There’s another reason for visiting a doctor. When you receive medical attention, you also get documentation of your injuries. Failing to see a doctor can hurt your chances at compensation.
By hesitating to get medical treatment, you give the insurance company reason to believe that you had no serious injuries.
Who Pays Your Compensation?
In 2015, 129,000 pedestrians received emergency medical treatment after their accidents. All of those medical bills add up. Fortunately, there are other people to foot the bill of your medical costs.
If you live in a no-fault state, the insurance company of the driver will pay for some of the medical bills. In an at-fault state, the pedestrian’s health insurance company foots the bill.
You also have the option of filing a claim against the driver. If the driver was at fault and the insurance company refuses to pay, you could fight the insurance company. You could also choose to file a personal injury claim against the driver.
In some situations, the municipality is to blame. If a broken traffic light caused the accident, then the local municipality shoulders the responsibility. You might be able to file a claim against them.
Filing a Claim
Typically, you need to fight for fair compensation. You may need to contact a personal injury lawyer in Atlanta to learn about your options.
Pedestrian fatalities are at a 25 year high, and there are still many fatalities each year. If you are one of the many victims, you should seek compensation.
Cambre and Associates recommend speaking to an attorney immediately after your accident. When you do, you can find out whether or not you are eligible for compensation. You can also learn which actions you need to take to get a successful outcome.
