Many people walk on an everyday basis. This may be for leisure, physical activity, or to just get to where they need to be. Generally, this is a safe activity that does not usually end in injury. However, it is possible to be involved in a pedestrian accident. This can occur if a driver on the road is negligent and does not look out for pedestrians. Unfortunately, as pedestrians are not offered the same protection that vehicles are, these accidents can be extremely dangerous and cause significant injuries. In these situations, victims of these accidents may be able to receive compensation. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to retain the services of an experienced attorney to guide you towards rightful compensation.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
There are many different ways a pedestrian accident can occur. This can include but is not limited to the following:
- Poor weather conditions
- Unmarked crosswalks
- Inadequate street lighting
- Left-hand turns
- Dark clothing
While these are all causes of pedestrian accidents, the most common cause is driver negligence. When a driver acts negligently while operating a vehicle on the road, they may not see a pedestrian and cause an accident. Actions that are considered driver negligence can include driving under the influence, speeding, texting or eating while driving, driving drowsy, unsafe lane changes, and more.
Recovering Compensation
One way that an injured pedestrian may be able to receive compensation after an accident is through Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PIP is no-fault insurance that most insurance policies carry for those involved in automobile accidents. This can include pedestrians who were harmed by a negligent driver. This compensation is available in order to cover additional costs as a result of the accident. It is important to know that this is available to individuals regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
Another way a person involved in a pedestrian accident may seek compensation is through a personal injury lawsuit. In order to have a successful lawsuit, victims are required to prove negligence. This can be done by satisfying the burden of proof with evidence. Evidence that can be helpful in proving negligence can consist of medical documentation of the injuries, pictures of the scene of the accident, a police report, witness statements, and more.
Contact our Firm
Friedman Schuman Layser is an experienced and dedicated legal resource for clients throughout Pennsylvania. We proudly serve clients facing a wide range of legal matters. If you require the services of an effective attorney, please contact Friedman Schuman Layser today to schedule a consultation.
