Taking precautions and following traffic safety rules, such as crossing the street in crosswalks, is crucial for keeping yourself safe. However, many motorists are rushing to get places or are not paying attention to their surroundings, which can create hazardous situations for those pedestrians. When a car hits someone who is walking, it can have severe and life-altering consequences, possibly leaving them with long-term or permanent damage and unable to work.
Luckily, civil laws entitle you to collect compensation from the driver when their negligence causes you harm. A Missoula pedestrian accident lawyer could help you pursue compensation by gathering evidence and protecting your rights throughout the litigation process. One of our dedicated personal injury attorneys could answer your questions and help you with a claim.
When a pedestrian is injured by a reckless driver, it is crucial for them to understand the standard procedures to follow moving forward. Taking certain steps allows the injured pedestrians’ attorney to understand what happened and gather evidence for the Missoula accident claim. These steps include the following:
An injured person must seek medical care immediately after getting hit by a car. They could suffer severe harm, such as internal organ damage and bleeding, and not show symptoms in the immediate aftermath. Medical records and hospital or urgent care bills are also essential for collecting a settlement from the at-fault party.
While it is not always possible in emergency medical situations, gathering information from witnesses and the driver’s information at the scene is helpful. However, if not possible, the information may be on the police officer’s accident report. Pictures of the scene are also beneficial for the injury claim.
Working with one of our legal professionals is not a requirement for collecting damages in personal injury cases. Even so, we can provide sound legal advice and guidance, help you prove liability, and collect a fair settlement amount.
There are many types of injuries a pedestrian could experience from a crash, but some are more severe than others and could require more extensive recovery time. Examples of injuries pedestrians may sustain when a car strikes them include:
One of our attorneys can investigate to gather the crucial evidence needed to prove fault and the total cost of damages from the pedestrian accident.
Potentially recoverable damages may include monetary losses such as medical care, lost pay, and earning potential. The court may also award compensation for non-monetary damages such as permanent disabilities, emotional anguish and distress, and pain and suffering.
State laws prohibit people on foot from stepping off the curb into the path of oncoming traffic. However, they do have the right of way in specific circumstances. Montana Code Annotated § 61-8-502 instructs that motorists approaching marked or unmarked intersections without traffic lights must yield to pedestrians crossing the street.
Drivers can make right turns when they do not place the people crossing at risk of harm. When motorists approach intersections with stopped vehicles, traffic laws prohibit them from passing. All drivers must take additional caution and prepare to stop when children cross the street in school zones. An attorney in Missoula could use their knowledge of traffic laws to prove that the pedestrian had the right of way in the accident.
If you were out walking and a negligent driver caused you harm, you should not have to cover the financial cost of their actions. Personal injury rules and statutes allow you to file a claim against the liable party to recover money for their losses.
While the system is available, the laws are complex and often overwhelming to navigate alone. A Missoula pedestrian accident lawyer can take the legal filings and paperwork off your hands and fight for a just settlement you need and deserve. Call soon to schedule an appointment and learn more.
(406) 721-9700