As a pedestrian, you must make sure you cross the road when it is safe to do so. Cross at designated crosswalks or intersections. You need to know the traffic regulations so you can cross when it is safe to do so. Unfortunately, not all drivers are safe and yield right-of-way to pedestrians. If you are hit by a driver and the driver was negligent, you can pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver to recover compensation for your damages. With the help of a personal injury lawyer, you are much more likely to recover compensation for the damages that you suffered in the crash.
What To Do If You Are Hit As A Pedestrian
If you are a pedestrian who is hit by an underinsured motorist, you should call the police. You will want to make sure an accident report is filed and that you tell the officer your account of the accident. If you are physically able to do so, be sure to get photos of the accident scene, your visible injuries, and the damage to the vehicle. Ask any witnesses to provide written statements and ask them to include their names and contact information so you can contact them later if you need them to corroborate your account of the accident.
You should establish medical care right away. Failure to establish medical care right away can make it difficult to prove that your injuries were a result of the accident. Keep copies of medical records. Also, keep your medical bills, prescription records, receipts for medical devices, and proof of missed work and lost wages. The more documentation that you maintain, the more likely you are to have a successful personal injury claim.
Pursuing Your Damages After Being Hit By An Underinsured Motorist While Walking
If you were hit by an underinsured motorist while walking, your damages could quickly exceed the limitations of the driver’s policy. As an example, the driver might have the minimum insurance coverage required by their state. That coverage might be 15/25/10. That coverage is $15,000 per person for personal injuries up to $25,000 per accident and it is up to $10,000 for property damages per accident. As an example, if you suffered a severe spinal injury from the impact that required surgical intervention, your medical bills could easily exceed $100,000.
You may also be off work for a year or longer and depending on your salary, that might be an additional $50,000 or more in damages. If your damages total $150,000 and the driver’s insurance only pays $15,000, you are left with $135,000 in remaining damages. You will then need to file a claim against your own auto insurance’s underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. If you have enough coverage, it should take care of all your losses.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been hit by an underinsured motorist while walking, you should enlist the help of a personal injury lawyer who is licensed in your state. With the help of an attorney in your area, you are much more likely to recover compensation for your damages. Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you have nothing to lose. Schedule your free case review today.
