Wall Township Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
New Jersey, including Wall Township, has high volumes of pedestrian traffic, including commuters and students. Many often walk or use public transportation such as New Jersey Transit. A pedestrian hit by a negligent motorist is often severely injured. In a no-fault state like New Jersey, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) kicks in to offset some of the expense, but the costs often exceed the maximum payout. It’s important to remember that pedestrian accident victims have options for significant compensation beyond that permitted through PIP.
If you have been struck by a car, our team of New Jersey injury lawyers at Harrell Law Firm can help. Insurance companies work hard to protect their profit margins, which means they could devalue, delay, or outright deny legitimate pedestrian accident claims. Having an attorney protects your rights and ensures you get the money you are entitled to. Schedule a free consultation today.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
The driver who hit you may have been speeding, driving distracted or intoxicated, or trying to beat a red light. However, they have a legal duty to take reasonable precautions and pay attention to the road. If a negligent motorist has hurt you, here are some of the steps you can take to protect your health and your right to recover damages for your losses and injuries:
- Contact police. Ensure law enforcement has been notified. When there are injuries, the police are required to file an accident report. It is your opportunity to ensure they have the correct information.
- Seek medical care. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are superficial. It can take days or even weeks to ascertain the full measure of your injuries. The sooner you speak with your physician, the more likely you will recover fully. In addition, doctor’s notes, test results, and diagnoses create a paper trail that supports your claim.
- Document the scene. You have a limited amount of time to document the accident scene. If possible, take photos of the car that struck you, obtain contact information from witnesses, and identify businesses that might have security cameras that captured the accident.
Finally, contact a Wall Township pedestrian accident attorney. Put experience on your side and send a message to the insurance company that you are not going to settle for less than your claim is worth.
Common Injuries in a Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrians do not have the same protections as motorists and their passengers in an accident. There is little to absorb the impact of a collision with a vehicle, and the resulting injuries are often severe and include the following:
- Complex fractures
- Soft tissue injures
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Amputation
- Traumatic brain injuries
Depending on the nature of your injuries, your recovery may require emergency medical care, surgeries, assistive support like a wheelchair or mobility device, hospitalization, or psychological counseling. As noted above, the compensation needed to cover these losses will rarely be obtained through PIP insurance alone. Pedestrians who do not own a vehicle and do not have PIP will not receive private insurance coverage for their medical bills. That’s why it’s crucial to contact a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer.
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How Long Does it Take to Resolve a Pedestrian Accident Injury Claim?
The time it takes to resolve your claim will depend on the facts of your accident. If the driver who struck you admits fault, their insurance company might agree to a settlement. However, other circumstances can make this process take much longer. For example, if the driver refuses to accept liability or the severity of your injuries requires that you reach maximum medical improvement, which is when your injuries are stabilized and unlikely to improve.
In addition, in some instances, liability for a pedestrian injury may not attach solely to the motorist but to a property owner or municipality–if the accident involved a hazardous condition that could’ve been prevented through proper maintenance.
Your attorney will send a demand letter to the negligent party and their counsel. It generally promises not to sue in exchange for a monetary award, and settlement negotiations often begin at this stage. However, we will take the case to court if a fair amount cannot be reached.
Schedule a Free Consultation at Harrell Law Firm
Serving Wall Township, Howell Township, North Bergen, and the Surrounding Areas
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Wall Township, you deserve to recover compensation for all your losses and injuries. Our team at Harrell Law Firm is ready to serve as your advocates. We work on a contingency basis, meaning you do not owe legal fees unless we secure compensation on your behalf. With over 38 years of combined experience, we understand the toll accidents can take on your health, finances, and overall well-being. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
