Crossing the street and being hit by a car is a terrifying event. The unexpected nature of the accident may leave you stunned, disoriented, and unsure of what steps to take following it.
However, following a pedestrian accident, taking a few key actions can often make the difference in getting the total and fair compensation you deserve.
Speak with a Toledo injury attorney about your legal options for recovering compensation if you have been injured in a pedestrian accident.
Tips for Improving Your Claim During Recovery
You will drastically increase your chances of recovering compensation following a pedestrian accident by taking specific steps.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and suggestions. Following your doctor’s or another medical provider’s advice is crucial to your physical and mental rehabilitation. Additionally, following your doctor’s orders shows your insurer that you were concerned about your injuries and health.
- Maintain a recovery notebook or journal. It’s easy to forget about the day-to-day difficulties of dealing with a catastrophic injury. By keeping a diary of your challenges and the impact of your injuries, you will be able to make a solid and persuasive claim for pain and suffering damages.
- Avoid social media. Some companies may monitor your social media accounts to look for comments, images, and videos that might suggest you were not as seriously injured as you claim.
Pedestrian Accidents: What Factors Determine Fault?
To determine how and who caused the accident, an insurance company and your lawyer will examine several evidence points, including:
- The accident report from the cops
- Photos or videos of an accident scene
- Dashcam video or surveillance
- Vehicle damage photos or videos, as well as estimates for repairs
- Statements from witnesses
- Medical treatment records
Recoverable Damages in a Pedestrian Accident
If a motorist hits a pedestrian, you may be entitled to compensation for the injuries you have sustained. This compensation may include:
- Healthcare expenses such as hospital stays, doctor’s appointments, surgeries, physical or occupational therapy, prescription medications, mobility equipment, home health care, etc.
- Lost wages or revenue for the time you were unable to work due to your injuries.
- A lost earning capability occurs when your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or another form of gainful employment.
- Incapability to partake in previously enjoyed activities due to a disability or deformity. after the accident.
- Having sustained injuries that caused you pain, suffering, and emotional and physical misery and despair.
- Your spouse can assert a loss of consortium claim for compensation for the loss of your companionship and society following your injury.
