Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Pedestrian Accident in New Jersey: How to Get the Compensation You Deserve
Being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian is a frightening experience, often leading to severe injuries, high medical bills, and emotional trauma. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in New Jersey, Road accidents are terrible whether two drivers’ vehicles hit or pedestrians get hurt. Such mishaps cause serious physical and mental injuries. The burden of expensive medical bills gives an extra headache. So, if you were in a pedestrian accident in New Jersey, you must know your legal rights and the steps involved in pursuing a personal injury claim. CourtLaw is at your service, describing:
- The procedures for pursuing damages
- How they are determined
- The need to consult a pedestrian accident advocate
Typical Reasons for New Jersey Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian road mishaps mainly occur on rush roads. However, such accidents can also happen even in peaceful residential societies. Therefore, both pedestrians and drivers must be mindful in the streets. Some typical reasons for pedestrian accidents are as follows:
Unfocused Driving
Distracted drivers may not detect people crossing the road because they might be:
- Texting
- Using a GPS
- Engaging in other activities
A severe collision might occur from even a momentary distraction.
Speeding
A driver’s reaction time is slowed by excessive speed, making pedestrian-related collisions more serious.
Failure to Yield at Crosswalks
New Jersey regulations force the drivers to stop and yield to pedestrians at crosswalks. However, some drivers neglect the rules, which threatens foot travelers.
Drug Addict Drivers
Alcohol or drug-addict drivers usually have a compromised driving profile and response time. Such persons are a serious threat to walkers.
Unexpected Weather Changes
Frigid weather can make roads slippery. Such paths are difficult to drive on. It increases the possibility of road mishaps.
Common Injuries of Pedestrian Accident
Foot travelers are susceptible to road accidents. They might get mild, moderate, or severe wounds. Some typical injuries or traumas are:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI cases range from mild to severe, including concussions. Moderate cases may cause cognitive impairments. However, the outcome of severe TBI is mostly either lifelong disability or death.
Fractured Bones
Walkers may also suffer from broken bones. Some common fracture sites in your body could be:
- Arms
- Legs
- Ribs
- Pelvis
Surgery and intensive therapy may be necessary for recovery.
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord damage may result in partial or total paralysis. In such cases, the patients need mobility aid and lifetime medical help.
Internal Injury
Road accidents can also cause internal bleeding, affecting vital organs, such as:
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Spleen
Therefore, always get medical help even if the accident outcomes are mild or moderate.
Cuts and Lacerations
Deep skin cuts from broken glass or metal debris are dangerous. If left treated, these cuts may cause:
- Infections
- Permanent scarring
How to File a Personal Injury Claim After a Pedestrian Accident?
Urgently file a personal injury claim for compensation for injuries from a pedestrian road accident.
Seek Urgent Medical Help
Always see a doctor even if you feel all right. A few injuries, like whiplash or internal damage, may not indicate any sign right away. However, they can get worse later. Besides, your medical records will be key evidence for your claim.
Collect Evidence from the Accident Scene
Take pictures of the car, the road, and any apparent injuries to record the accident site if feasible. Get the contact information of witnesses who can help you confirm your case.
Consult a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer can assist you in:
- Obtaining evidence
- Navigating the court system
- Defending your rights
- Bargain with insurance providers
Register a Personal Injury Claim
Collect all required paperwork. Afterwards, your solicitor will submit a claim to the guilty driver’s insurance firm. This claim will include information about:
- Your injuries
- The accident’s circumstances
- The amount of money you request to cover your medical costs
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
How to Determine Compensation in a Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Compensation for pedestrian accidents covers both monetary losses and emotional distress. Among the essential elements taken into account are:
Health Care Costs
This covers the price of any ongoing medical care associated with your injury, including:
- Hospital stays
- Surgeries
- Prescription drugs
- Rehabilitation
Lost Income and Decreased Earning Capacity
You could be eligible for lost salary compensation if your injuries keep you from working. Additional damages for impaired earning capability may be granted in circumstances of permanent incapacity.
Suffering and Pain
Compensation may include emotional and psychological pain brought on by the disaster and monetary damages.
Damage to Property
You can get reimbursement to repair or replace any personal property damaged in the accident.
Why Hire a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in NJ?
Contending with a personal injury claim is hard, especially when recovering. A lawyer can handle your case correctly. Here’s why you need legal help:
Detailed Scrutiny
To support your claim, an attorney will compile important evidence, such as:
- Witness accounts
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Security film (if available)
Cope With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies frequently try to reduce payouts. A knowledgeable lawyer will bargain on your behalf to guarantee that you are fairly compensated.
Meet Legal Deadlines
In New Jersey, you only have a specific period within which you can file for personal injuries due to the state’s statute of limitations. Your attorney will certify that necessary documents are correctly submitted and completed on time.
Optimize the Compensation
A skilled lawyer will determine your damages precisely and seek the highest settlement or verdict at trial.
For Legal Help After a Pedestrian Accident, Get in Touch with CourtLaw
You don’t have to handle the legal system by yourself if you were hurt in a pedestrian accident in New Jersey. The dedicated staff at CourtLaw can assist you in obtaining the recompense to which you are entitled.
Call 732-442-5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation today. Our team is ready to guide you through every step of your personal injury claim.