San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Dedicated Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Serving San Bernardino and Surrounding Areas
Pedestrians consistently face the dangers posed by moving traffic, and this risk has only heightened with the increasing number of inattentive drivers on the road. A majority of drivers are not sufficiently focused on the road and their surroundings, engaging in activities such as texting, talking on their smartphones, changing music, or eating in their cars. Additional factors, including the time of day, the driver’s fatigue level, and the presence or absence of proper traffic signs, lighting, or crosswalks, can further elevate the risk of a vehicle colliding with a pedestrian. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in California, it is crucial to take all necessary steps to protect your rights. The first crucial step is to promptly engage a San Bernardino pedestrian accident lawyer from Aitken * Aitken * Cohn.
What To Do After A Pedestrian Accident
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident, here are steps to take:
- Seek Medical Attention: Priority should be given to seeking medical attention for any injuries. Call for an ambulance if needed. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s essential to have a professional assessment.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police. Having an official police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal actions.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver involved. Collect the names and contact details of any witnesses as well.
- Document the Scene: If you are physically able, document the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signals, and any other relevant details.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Stick to the facts when talking to the police or others involved.
- Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident. This includes keeping your clothing if it has blood or damage, not repairing your damaged personal items, and preserving any written records of your account of the incident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate information about the accident.
- Get Legal Advice: Consult with our San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorney to understand your rights and potential legal actions. We can provide guidance on dealing with insurance companies and pursuing a personal injury claim.
Recoverable Damages In A Pedestrian Accident
In a pedestrian accident, the damages you may be able to recover can include both economic and non-economic losses. Here are common types of damages:
- Medical Expenses: Costs associated with hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, rehabilitation, and any other necessary medical treatments.
- Future Medical Costs: Anticipated medical expenses for ongoing or future treatments, surgeries, therapy, or rehabilitation.
- Lost Income: Wages or salary lost due to the inability to work during your recovery period.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: Compensation for any reduction in your ability to earn income in the future due to the injuries sustained in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and overall suffering caused by the accident.
- Mental Anguish: Compensation for psychological trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress resulting from the pedestrian accident.
- Total Impairment: Compensation for any permanent disabilities or impairments that affect your daily life and activities.
- Lowered Standard of Living: Compensation for any adverse impact on your quality of life and lifestyle due to the accident.
- Diminished Overall Happiness: Compensation for the decrease in life satisfaction and overall happiness caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of personal property damaged in the accident, such as clothing or personal items.
- Punitive Damages: In certain cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.
It’s important to note that the specific damages recoverable can vary based on the circumstances of the accident, the severity of injuries, and the applicable laws in your jurisdiction. Consultation with a San Bernardino pedestrian accident attorney is crucial to understanding your rights and pursuing a comprehensive compensation claim.
Contact Our San Bernardino Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
Our goal at the San Bernardino pedestrian accident law firm is to provide exceptional customer service to our clients. With a track record of handling various personal injury cases, including numerous pedestrian accidents resulting in significant settlements, we invite you to contact our law firm immediately.