According to federal data, the number of pedestrian deaths in the United States rose from 4,302 in 2010 to 7,624 in 2021. This concerning figure emphasizes how serious the issue is and the need for strict rules. Pedestrian accident victims suffer many types of injuries.
Common pedestrian accident injuries include head trauma, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries.
When injuries occur in a pedestrian accident, victims may be eligible to seek compensation through a pedestrian accident claim. By understanding the damages covered under a pedestrian accident claim, victims can ensure they receive the proper compensation for their injuries and losses.
Types of Damages Covered
Victims may be eligible to recover damages when filing a pedestrian accident claim. These include:
- Medical Expenses: These include the costs of medical treatment, such as hospital visits, surgery, medication, and rehabilitation. Victims can also claim future medical expenses if their injuries require ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: If a pedestrian’s injuries prevent them from working, they may be able to recover lost wages through a claim. This includes both past and future lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering: Victims of pedestrian accidents may experience severe physical, psychological, and emotional effects. They are entitled to compensation for the accident-related pain and suffering.
- Property Damage: If a pedestrian’s personal property (e.g., phone, clothing) is damaged in the accident, they may be able to claim compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, a pedestrian’s injuries may negatively impact their relationship with their spouse or family members. In these instances, victims may be eligible to seek damages for the loss of consortium.
Factors Affecting Damages
A pedestrian accident claimant’s eligibility for a certain amount of compensation depends on several circumstances, such as:
Severity of Injuries: The severity of a pedestrian’s injuries is one of the most significant factors affecting their compensation. Higher damages are likely to follow from more severe injuries.
Impact on Daily Life: Pedestrian accident injuries can profoundly affect a victim’s daily life, including their ability to work and carry out everyday activities—potential damages increase with increasing impact.
Pain and Suffering: As mentioned earlier, pedestrian accidents can cause immense physical and emotional pain. This suffering can significantly increase the compensation that the sufferer may be entitled to receive.
Future Medical Needs: Injuries sustained through a pedestrian accident may require ongoing medical treatment or result in long-term disabilities. These future medical needs can significantly impact the compensation a victim may receive.
Preventing Pedestrian Accidents
While victims of pedestrian accidents need to seek compensation for their damages, it’s also crucial to prevent these accidents from occurring in the first place.
- Always Use Crosswalks: When crossing the street, always use designated crosswalks and follow traffic signals. In addition to ensuring pedestrian safety, this can assist in preventing accidents.
- Stay Visible: Wear bright-colored or reflective clothing when walking, especially at night. This can make it easier for drivers to see pedestrians and avoid collisions.
- Avoid Distractions: Distracted walking (e.g., texting while crossing the street) can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents. Stay attentive and aware of your surroundings.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Pedestrians must also follow traffic laws, such as crossing at designated areas and obeying signals. This can keep everyone safe and help prevent accidents.
Final Thoughts!
Accidents involving pedestrians can have tragic results for the victims and their loved ones. Giving victims of pedestrian accidents information about the damages covered by their claim can help expedite their compensation for losses and injuries.
We must prioritize our safety and make every effort to prevent these accidents. Pedestrian accident victims should seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to help them navigate the claims process and receive the best outcome possible.
So, let’s be proactive in promoting safety and reducing the number of pedestrian accidents on our roadways.