Pedestrian accidents have been on the rise. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,283 individuals died in pedestrian accidents across the country in 2018. That is a three percent increase from the previous year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that an additional 181,406 individuals visited the emergency room as a result of pedestrian accident injuries.
If you were struck by a motor vehicle while walking, running, cycling, or skateboarding on a public walkway or roadway, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Contact West Michigan Injury Lawyers, PLC for experienced legal guidance throughout the claims process. Our Muskegon pedestrian accident lawyers have over 75 years of combined experience and the proven ability to recover maximum compensation for our clients.
The majority of pedestrian accidents result from either a driver violating traffic laws or simply failing to pay attention. A significant number of these types of accidents take place when a pedestrian is crossing at an intersection.
Pedestrian accidents have a variety of causes, including:
What to Do after a Pedestrian Accident
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, your first priority is to seek immediate medical attention. If the pain is severe, you should visit the emergency room. Getting examined by a medical professional is often a key element in filing a claim for compensation. Insurance companies often argue that if the individual did not go to see a doctor, then the injuries were not that serious.
Other important steps to take following the incident include:
You will also want to call our experienced legal team for help filing a claim against the driver. Be sure not to talk to the driver’s insurance company on your own, as this can have adverse effects upon your case. Allow our personal injury lawyers to do the talking for you.
In Michigan, pedestrian accidents are often, but not always, the driver’s fault. It is important to have a skilled legal advocate on your side who can help you build a strong case to prove the negligence of the driver.
When you work with West Michigan Injury Lawyers, PLC, our attorneys can help you file a claim to recover the compensation you are owed. The specific amount we seek is based upon the losses you have encountered due to the accident. This might include monetary damages, such as medical bills and loss of income, as well as non-economic losses, like pain and suffering.