Protecting Your Rights After a Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accident
Pedestrian hit-and-run accidents are a frightening and potentially fatal experience. Victims will have physical injuries, but the aftermath extends much further to emotional and financial hardship.
As your accident injury lawyer, I know the intricacies of the law and how it apportions liability in these cases. Let’s discuss this below, and touch on the steps you should take after an accident.
Understanding Liability
In the US, pedestrian hit-and-run liability is linked to negligence. When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it complicates the process of identifying and holding them accountable. There are several legal avenues open to you:
Driver Negligence: The primary responsibility lies with the driver who caused the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and the driver can face severe legal consequences like criminal charges and civil liability.
Owner Liability: If the vehicle owner was not the driver, the owner could also be held liable if they approved an unfit driver to use their vehicle.
Third-Party Liability: Other parties might share liability if, for example, a bar over-served an intoxicated driver who then caused the accident. The bar might be held partially liable under dram shop laws depending on the laws of the state where the accident occurred.
Steps to Take
Seek medical assistance: Ensure that you receive immediate medical care for any injuries sustained. Have a medical report sent to your accident injury lawyer.
Call the police: Report the accident to the police, as they will document the incident, which will be essential for your legal case.
Gather evidence: In the aftermath of an accident, secure evidence to support your case. This includes taking photographs of the scene and any vehicle damage. Additionally, note down crucial details about the vehicles involved and gather contact information from any potential witnesses.
Consult a lawyer: Using your experienced personal injury lawyer for accidents will help you understand your rights, improve evidence gathering, and increase the chances of a successful case.
How Your Lawyer Can Assist
Calling upon a dedicated accident injury lawyer will significantly impact the outcome of your case. They will:
Have the resources to conduct thorough investigations. They can work with police, review surveillance footage, and hire experts to reconstruct the accident scene.
Equip you with knowledge of your rights and guide you towards the most effective course of action.
Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf to secure fair compensation. If necessary, they will represent you in court.
Work tirelessly to ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Consult an experienced accident injury lawyer and get the justice you deserve today!
