Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
When people think of a vehicle accident, they often immediately assume it involved two cars. However, sometimes, one of the involved parties is not a vehicle but a person. When that happens, serious or fatal injuries are often the result. Due to the severity of injuries in many pedestrian collisions, the possible compensation in these claims is significant.
If you or a loved one were struck by a vehicle while on foot, you deserve to be fairly compensated. Getting into a pedestrian accident means the start of an intimidating process, which almost always involves insurance companies and lawyers. In every scenario, it is in your best interest to consult with a personal injury attorney. If you are looking for a Bakersfield pedestrian accident lawyer, our firm is ready to assist you.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Collisions
Injuries sustained from contact with a vehicle, like a car, truck, or motorcycle, can result in serious damage to your body. Walkers do not have the protection of seatbelts, airbags, or surrounding car walls. If a person walks away from a collision with a car, they often sustain serious injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Internal organ damage
- Skull fractures
- Spinal cord damage
- Lacerations
- Fatalities
This list is not conclusive; a person’s entire body is vulnerable to damage from metal vehicles. This often results in incredible debt. An empathetic pedestrian accident attorney in Bakersfield could help you recover the money you need for the bills that you are now facing.
What to Do When a Car Hits You While Walking
It is important to always follow the law when you are out and about, whether that is in a vehicle or on foot. For example, pedestrians generally have the right of way at a crosswalk. However, they can also be held liable for an incident if they try to cross when it is clearly unsafe to do so. They must obey walk signals and let vehicles that are already in the crosswalk pass.
If you are struck by a vehicle, it is important to get to safety immediately. You should check your body and document any injuries. Then, call 911 to file a police report and get medical care, even if you think you are fine. You should document the accident with photos and videos, as that will serve as critical evidence later. Then contact your car insurance, as they often have coverage for these types of accidents. Finally, it is essential to hire a legal representative to help you.
There is a two-year deadline in California for plaintiffs to file a lawsuit for their car accident-related injuries, which includes pedestrians. The two-year clock begins at the time of the accident. If a plaintiff misses the deadline imposed by law, they most likely will lose their chance to get compensated. To ensure your pedestrian collision lawsuit is timely and as strong as possible, it is wise to speak with a Bakersfield attorney.
Call a Bakersfield Pedestrian Crash Attorney Today
While drivers must always pay attention while on the road, they are not always at fault if their vehicle hits a pedestrian. It can be overwhelming or intimidating to navigate interacting with insurance companies, gathering evidence, or following the rules of the court. A skilled Bakersfield pedestrian crash lawyer will help you prove that the responsible party breached their duty of care and must pay most, if not all, of your damages. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.
