What Compensation Can You Claim After a Pedestrian Accident

According to USNews.com, Missouri state ranks 45th out of 50 in the healthcare rankings. Not only that, healthcare in the United States is exorbitantly expensive. So, in the unfortunate case of a pedestrian accident, seeking compensation is the way to move forward. With some financial aid, the burden of undergoing a serious injury is slightly relieved. To ensure that one gets the rightful compensation that’s owed to them, talking to a pedestrian accident attorney is a great idea. 

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Not only are you likely to suffer from injuries, but you may also face medical bills and loss of income. In such cases, seeking adequate compensation becomes crucial to help alleviate the burden. This article explores what compensation can be claimed in the event of a pedestrian accident. 

Understanding the available compensation options

When it comes to seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident, there are several routes that you can explore. It’s important to know your rights and be familiar with the different avenues available to you. Let’s take a closer look at some of these options:

1. Personal Injury Claim

If you were hit by a negligent driver while crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. This type of claim allows you to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

To file a successful personal injury claim, it’s essential to gather evidence that proves the driver was at fault. This may include witness statements, photographs of the accident scene, police reports, and any other relevant documentation.

2. Car Insurance Claim

In some cases, if you are involved in an accident as a pedestrian caused by a motor vehicle, you may be able to seek compensation through the driver’s auto insurance policy. This can help cover your medical expenses and other losses.

To pursue this route successfully, make sure to report the incident promptly to both your insurance company and the driver’s insurance company. Be prepared to provide them with details about the accident along with any supporting evidence.

3. No-Fault Insurance Benefits

Some states have no-fault insurance systems in place which provide benefits regardless of who was at fault for causing the accident. These benefits typically cover medical expenses as well as lost wages.

Incidentally, Missouri is an at-fault state, meaning that residents must carry a minimum amount of liability coverage through their auto insurance provider. 

4. Workers’ Compensation

If you were struck by a vehicle while walking as part of your job, you might be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. This applies if you were performing work-related tasks or running errands for your employer at the time of the accident.

Workers’ compensation can help cover medical bills and rehabilitation expenses and compensate for any loss of income caused by the accident. To claim these benefits, immediately inform your supervisor and file a report about the incident.

5. Social Security Disability Benefits

In severe cases where your pedestrian accident resulted in long-term disabilities preventing you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. These benefits aim to support individuals who are unable to sustain employment due to their injuries.

To determine eligibility for these benefits, it’s necessary to consult with a disability attorney who can guide you through the application process and help gather essential supporting documentation.

6. Time Limits and Statutes of Limitations

When it comes to seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident, it is vital to be aware of time limits and statutes of limitations. These are legal deadlines within which you must file your claim or lawsuit.

In most jurisdictions, statutes of limitations vary depending on the type of claim being pursued. Personal injury claims typically have a statute of limitations ranging from one to six years, while workers’ compensation claims may have shorter time frames.

7. Consulting with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Navigating the legal landscape for seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident can be complex and overwhelming. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can greatly enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation.

A qualified attorney knowledgeable in pedestrian accidents can assess the details of your case, collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies or defendants, and advocate for your rights. They can also guide you through legal processes such as filing a lawsuit, gathering medical records, and representing you in court if necessary.

Conclusion

After enduring a pedestrian accident, assessing all possible avenues for seeking compensation is crucial. Whether pursuing a personal injury claim, filing an insurance claim, or exploring other paths such as workers’ compensation or social security disability benefits, understanding your rights and obligations is a must. Engaging the assistance of legal professionals can provide invaluable guidance throughout this complex process. Remember that each case is unique; consulting with an attorney experienced in handling pedestrian accident claims ensures personalized advice tailored to your situation before proceeding further toward fair compensation.