Being hit by a car is never something that can be expected, and the aftermath of such an accident is just as blindsiding and overwhelming. You're likely dealing with injuries, climbing medical bills, and insurance agents who seem to be more interested in closing your case than helping you recover.
Sadly, many people wrongly assume that in the event of a pedestrian accident, the ensuing legal case will be simple because of their clear status as the victim. The thing is, these cases can be complicated, and that means having an experienced attorney by your side is essential to make the journey a little easier.
Why You Should Get a Good Attorney After a Pedestrian Accident
Here are eight key reasons why it's imperative that you hire a reliable attorney after you’ve been hurt by a car:
They’ll Help Determine Who's at Fault
Getting hit as a pedestrian doesn’t always lead to a clear-cut case. Sometimes, the driver is, indeed, clearly wrong, but there are other circumstances in which the blame can be spread around.
Perhaps you crossed where there wasn't a crosswalk, or the city didn't fix its broken traffic lights, or the driver who hit you couldn't see you because of overgrown bushes. A pedestrian accident attorney knows how to look into all these details. They’ll understand that more than just the driver might be responsible, and they’ll help you seek compensation from all possible sources.
They Are Aware of Insurance Company Tactics
Almost immediately following your accident, the driver's insurance company will give you a call. The agent on the other end will likely sound like they care and ask you to record a statement, and they’ll then proceed to offer a quick payment that might seem good in that moment, especially if you're concerned about a variety of bills.
What’s crucial to recognize, though, is that insurance companies are businesses, which means they want to make money. The first offer they make, therefore, is almost always going to be far less than what you deserve. And by taking it, you give up your right to ask for more later. A pedestrian accident lawyer knows how to push back against these kinds of tricks.
They’ll Work on Getting Money for All Your Losses
Many accident victims agree to low compensation values because they are usually thinking about their immediate expenses and going a few weeks without pay. Instead, they should consider their long-term care and future surgeries, as well as whether they’ve suffered permanent damage that might affect their ability to work for years. A pedestrian accident lawyer will fight for payment that covers everything you need.
They’ll Gather All the Proof You Need
Building a strong case requires evidence in the form of police reports, statements from people who saw the accident, video footage, medical records, and expert witness opinions. It’s not easy to collect all of these items, especially as you're healing, but a reliable attorney will take care of the process for you.
They Ensure You Meet Important Legal Deadlines
In Texas, you have two years from the date of your accident to file a claim, but you should not assume that’s a lot of time. It goes by remarkably quickly when you're focused on recovering, and missing the deadline means losing your right to compensation, no matter how bad your injuries are. A pedestrian accident attorney will make sure all papers are filed on time.
They’ll Help You Fight Claims of Your Fault
Texas operates under a modified comparative negligence rule. If you're found partially responsible for your accident, you’ll still receive compensation, just less of it. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may get nothing at all. Insurance companies, understanding the rule, try to blame pedestrians by claiming things that put them at fault.
They Look Out for Your Future Health Needs
Some injuries don't fully manifest until months or years later. A bump on your head might turn into a long-term cognitive condition, and your knee injury might need several surgeries over time, for instance. An experienced attorney will never rush to settle your case before understanding what might happen later and ensuring your settlement covers it all.
You Can Focus on Getting Better
Perhaps the best reason to hire an attorney is the relief it delivers. When you're hurt, you should focus on healing, not on reading insurance policies or arguing with claims adjusters. Your lawyer will handle the complicated legal jargon, becoming your voice in these stressful times and protecting what matters when you're most vulnerable.
FAQ
What if the Driver Who Hit Me Doesn't Have Insurance?
If the driver has no insurance, you still have options, including filing a claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage, suing the driver directly, or investigating whether others share the blame.
How Much Will I Pay for an Accident Attorney?
In most cases, injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. They only get paid if you win your case, receiving a percentage of your settlement or court award.
How Long Until My Pedestrian Accident Case Is Resolved?
The timeline depends on the nature of your case, the severity of your injuries, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. A simple case can end in a few months, but a more complicated one could last a full year or longer.
Get the Legal Support You Need
After a pedestrian accident, the right lawyer will make all the difference in your recovery and financial future. At Ramsey Law Group, we understand what you're going through and know how to help. If you or someone you care about has been hit by a car while walking, don't face this difficult time alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.