Motorists have some protection such as airbags and seat belts against harm when a collision takes place. However, pedestrians are often affected directly when a collision happens. Such effects can lead to life-changing or even deadly injuries. If you have sustained serious injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may be eligible for monetary compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Johnston Law Firm attorneys are focused on helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
In Portland, pedestrian accidents are quite serious. Each accident is different; however, they can occur due to the following:
- Distracted driving. This can take place if a driver does not focus on the road while behind the wheel. It includes using a cell phone while driving, eating and drinking, using a GPS, and talking to passengers while driving.
- Speeding. If a motorist speeds in areas that have heavy foot traffic or pedestrian zones, they can put the lives of others at risk.
- Not stopping or yielding right-of-way. Speeding through yellow lights, not stopping at stop signs, and not abiding by right-of-way laws are dangerous driving behaviors that can put pedestrians in danger.
- Harsh weather conditions. Snow, rain, and fog can result in pedestrian injuries due to lower visibility.
- Drunk driving. Getting behind the wheel while drunk can lead to pedestrian accidents. Drunk driving impairs the judgment of a driver and their ability to concentrate on driving.
Compensation that Pedestrian Accident Victims Can Recover
If you have sustained injuries in a pedestrian accident, you deserve compensation for the damages you suffered. This compensation should cover the following costs:
- Medical expenses. These include emergency services, surgeries, medical treatment, rehabilitation, hospital stay costs, and physical therapy.
- Lost wages, if you miss work or can’t do your job due to the injuries you have suffered, you deserve compensation for past and future lost wages.
- Pain and suffering. These include mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment you may experience following the accident.
Navigating the insurance claim on your own can be stressful. If you want to focus on recovering from your injuries, it is best to have an attorney handle your claim. Your attorney will help you establish a strong case and maximize your compensation. They will investigate the accident, get statements from witnesses, gather police reports, collect your medical records, determine liability, and negotiate a reasonable claim settlement with the insurer.
