Arcadia Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

Switching from clocking miles to counting steps can help you reduce your carbon footprint, save gas, and get fit in the process. However, reckless drivers can be found everywhere in the state, even on your favorite scenic route. A collision can drastically alter your way of life as many victims suffer catastrophic injuries or permanent disabilities. If you were a victim of an accident caused by a negligent driver, the Arcadia pedestrian accident attorneys at HPIL may be able to assist. We provide tailored representation taking time to thoroughly investigate each and every claim to ensure our clients have all the ingredients necessary to succeed. To find out more about our legal services and “no win, no-fee” representation, call us today at 1-800-GO-HARRIS.

What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident?

The steps you take after a pedestrian accident aren’t that different from those you would take after any other road wreck; however, it’s important not to hesitate, as you will need to act quickly to make sure evidence is preserved and that the at-fault motorist is identified. Here a few steps to keep in mind: 

• Contact Authorities: Whether someone needs urgent treatment, you were involved in a hit-and-run, or you need officers to help direct traffic, you should call 911 immediately. Waiting just a few hours to report the collision could drastically reduce the chances of identifying the at-fault motorist if they’ve fled the scene. Police officers will also compile an official incident report documenting details about the accident. This document can include useful information such as the names and contact details of those involved; the identities of any eyewitnesses; records of any deaths, injuries, and property damage; and the officer’s findings regarding who or what may have caused the collision.

• Take Photographs of the Scene: Taking a minute to snap a few photos of the accident scene could aid your attorney with their investigation. For example, if you took pictures of nearby surveillance cameras, your lawyer may want to obtain this footage before it is erased. Alternatively, photographs of your injuries could help connect your condition to the accident. You should also take photos of road markings, weather conditions, the at-fault motorist’s vehicle, and traffic signs.

• Seek Medical Treatment: If your injuries seem minor, you may think scheduling a doctor’s appointment is unnecessary. However, undergoing a comprehensive medical evaluation within a reasonable timeframe after a pedestrian accident could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of your claim. If it emerges that you delayed or skipped a doctor’s visit, you may face disputes over failure to mitigate damages. As such, you should seek treatment immediately after leaving the accident scene.

• Stay off Social Media: A pedestrian accident is almost always a harrowing experience. With your emotions running high, it’s tempting to log onto social media and vent about the at-fault motorist’s reckless driving. However, any posts you publish about the accident could affect the outcome of your claim. For instance, if your comments make it seem like you played a role in causing the accident or could’ve taken steps to avoid it, the insurer may use your posts as evidence to dispute liability. Even pictures you publish could be used to challenge your case. As a result, our lawyers may advise you to deactivate your online profiles until proceedings have come to an end.

What Damages Might Be Recoverable in My Case?

If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, your medical expenses may be adding up at an alarming rate. To make matters worse, you might be unable to work, depriving you and your family of thousands of dollars in earnings. It’s an immense financial burden, one that could put you on the brink of bankruptcy. Fortunately, these losses—and many others—may be recoverable. Filing a personal injury claim will not only let you hold the at-fault parties financially responsible for the damage they’ve done but could also help you obtain the funds you need to get your life back on track. At HPIL, we can review your case to determine which damages may be available to you and your family. Let’s explore the three main categories of damages typically available to personal injury victims:

• Economic Damages: This category covers tangible costs stemming from the accident such as your medical expenses, repair bills, and lost income, as well as any future expenses you are likely to incur as a result of the collision.

• Non-Economic Damages: This category encompasses intangible costs such as the mental anguish, pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment you’ve experienced in the aftermath of the crash.

• Punitive Damages: In some pedestrian accident lawsuits, punitive damages might be awarded if it’s ruled that the at-fault driver acted in an extremely reckless or malicious manner. Unlike the compensatory damages listed above, a punitive damages award isn’t meant to reimburse the plaintiff—although you will likely receive some or all of such damages—but rather to punish the defendant to discourage others from engaging in similar behavior.

Speak to an Arcadia Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

An unexpected accident can have devastating consequences, disrupting your normal routines and burdening you with thousands of dollars in medical debt. If you believe the motorist is to blame for causing the collision, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. At HPIL, we can review your situation, answer your questions, and discuss the strategies we may use to help you win your case. Dial 1-800-GO-HARRIS or drop us a message via our online contact page HERE to pencil in a free case assessment.