Norwalk Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents occur far too often, and the injuries victims sustain can be severe and life-altering. Most pedestrian accidents are avoidable, occurring because of distracted, intoxicated, or reckless drivers. The most important step to take after an accident is to make sure you’re safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Filing a lawsuit probably isn’t the first thing on your mind, but there are certain steps that should be considered after an accident that will allow you to file a successful accident claim should you decide to go that route in the future.
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured as a pedestrian in Norwalk, CT, our attorneys can help. Call today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident
The steps you take immediately following your accident are crucial, both for your safety and well-being, but also for your finances. Expenses add up quickly when you’re injured, and if someone else was at fault, you should be compensated. Consider taking the following steps after an accident:
Call The Police. One of the first steps you should take is to call the police. An officer will come to the scene and talk to you and the other parties involved. They will then write up an accident report, giving a summary of what happened. It’s important to obtain a copy of the accident report, as it might be helpful in proving liability if you decide to file a personal injury or insurance claim.
Seek Medical Attention. You should always seek medical attention after being involved in a pedestrian accident, even if you aren’t in pain. Internal injuries can occur, and people are often in shock after an accident, which prevents the onset of the pain. Always keep a record of all hospital visits, medical expenses, and any other expenses you incur as a result of the accident.
Take Photographs. If you’re safe and feel well enough to do so, taking photos of the scene can be important. This can help to show what occurred and whose fault it was. Also photograph visible injuries, personal items that sustained damage during the accident, and any damage to the other party’s vehicle.
Identify Witnesses. If there were witnesses to the accident, it’s important to identify them and obtain their name and contact information. If the accident was someone else’s fault and they deny this fact, witnesses can corroborate your version of events, which will help you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
Speak With a Lawyer. Another vital step is to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer once you feel healthy enough to do so. They can walk you through your options and help you obtain the compensation you need and deserve, either through an insurance claim, a settlement, or a trial.
You Can Recover Compensation Even If You’re Partially At Fault
Many people are under the impression that they can’t recover any compensation through a personal injury claim if they were at all responsible for their injuries. Fortunately, this isn’t the case in Connecticut. If your case goes to trial and it is determined that you were less than 50 percent responsible for the accident, you can recover compensation. If you were 50 percent or more responsible, you will be entitled to nothing.
Once a determination is made about your percentage of fault, any monetary compensation that is awarded to you at the conclusion of the trial will be reduced by that amount. For example, if you were deemed 30 percent at fault and were awarded $100,000, you will take home 70 percent, or $70,000.
Hire An Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents can have severe consequences due to the lack of protection that is present as compared to when you’re in a car accident. If you were injured as a pedestrian and believe the other party was responsible, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. We will do everything possible to ensure you receive the help you deserve. If you have any questions or would like to discuss initiating a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free consultation.