Pedestrian accidents are notorious for causing life-altering injuries. While many of these incidents stem from getting struck by vehicles, other forms of pedestrian accidents involve slips and falls, as well as motorcycle and bicycle accidents.
Most victims are uncertain about the next steps when a pedestrian accident occurs. Many people are not aware of their rights. An experienced La Porte personal injury lawyer is an essential ally you can trust to protect your rights and achieve the positive outcome you deserve.
Contributory Negligence in Pedestrian Accidents
Contributory negligence is a concept where a personal injury victim’s actions are responsible for their injuries or harm. For example, when a pedestrian crosses a road away from a designated crosswalk or is distracted by phones, and a motorist hits them, it may be argued that their negligence caused the accident. In that case, contributory negligence can limit your rights.
As a comparative negligence state, Texas law allows pedestrian accident victims to pursue compensation even when they are partially at fault for their injuries.
However, the degree of fault must be 50% or less. Even so, their share of liability reduces the total compensation recoverable. A skillful La Porte pedestrian accident attorney can review the details of your incident to apportion blame.
For a free legal consultation with a pedestrian accident lawyer serving La Porte, call (832) 449-8230
4 Key Steps Following a Pedestrian Accident
In the moments following a pedestrian accident, victims feel vulnerable and confused. The ensuing chaos can leave you feeling overwhelmed, too. Knowing what to do can make all the difference, not only for your health but also for your legal rights.
Our La Porte pedestrian accident lawyers recommend the following actions to help you regain control and stay safe:
Get Medical Attention
Many pedestrian accident victims don’t seek medical evaluation. They assume their injuries are minor and, therefore, self-medicate at home.
While not all injuries require medical treatment, you need to be sure about their extent. Even minor injuries such as cuts and bruises may be life-threatening, especially when they cause further infection or internal organ damage. Therefore, prompt medical attention promotes healing and recovery.
Another reason to prioritize medical assessment is to protect personal injury rights. When your harm stems from someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, reduced quality of life, rehabilitation expenses, emotional trauma, permanent disability, and more.
However, you cannot prove causation and damages without proper medical documentation from a qualified physician. Delaying treatment not only jeopardizes your well-being but also limits your legal rights.
Report the Accident
Involving the local police is crucial as it makes the accident an official record. In fact, the Texas Transportation Code 550 requires that all accidents involving bodily harm, property damage, or loss of life be reported to the local police department or highway patrol immediately.
Authorities will assess and document the incident in a formal police report. This legal document contains all relevant details about the situation, such as the parties involved, the damage involved, and liability. It is admissible as evidence in insurance claims.
In addition to reporting the accident to the police, you should contact your insurance company immediately. Follow the guidelines provided as per the policy.
Timely notification is vital for protecting your rights regardless of liability. When dealing with insurance companies, be careful not to say more than you should.
Only provide relevant information such as the accident’s location, injuries suffered, losses incurred, and the parties involved. Let all further communication between you and insurance adjusters be channeled through your personal injury lawyer.
Document the Incident
A comprehensive gathering of evidence is necessary for strengthening a personal injury case. Detailed and accurate information from the scene is essential for proving liability and damages, which are critical factors in insurance settlements.
Take photos and videos of the scene, where possible, and capture as many details as possible. Speak with eyewitnesses and request statements. Every detail counts. Record the contact and insurance details of everyone involved in the accident.
These pieces of evidence can significantly help your pedestrian accident attorney determine your eligibility for compensation and prepare strong legal strategies.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Pedestrian accidents often result in life-changing injuries. The only recourse for victims is pursuing a personal injury claim for compensation. Unfortunately, the legal complexities associated with personal injury law are intricate for most people to navigate.
Therefore, enlisting the help of a seasoned La Porte pedestrian accident attorney is beneficial. They can investigate the accident to establish fault, gather and preserve evidence, develop a strong case, calculate damages, and deal with insurers on your behalf.
La Porte Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Contact Our La Porte Pedestrian Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been hit by a truck, bicycle, motorcycle, or car, our pedestrian accident attorneys may help. Regardless of the circumstances of your injuries, our compassionate personal injury lawyers will utilize their resources and experience to fight for you.
Call us today to learn more.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form