Columbia Pedestrian Accident Attorney

A pedestrian accident is a collision involving a pedestrian and a vehicle. Often times, the nature and extent of the injuries are much more severe as the pedestrian is not afforded the same safety equipment as a passenger in a vehicle. Therefore, when a claim is filed there is a thorough evaluation of how the collision occurred, the injuries that have been sustained, the treatment rendered so far, as well as a discussion regarding the ongoing or future treatment expected for the injuries sustained.

With these things in mind, it is crucial to contact an experienced Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer, who can act as your guide and advocate to ensure you receive the compensation and guidance you deserve. To get started on your road to recovery call and schedule a consultation with an injury attorney in Columbia today.

Process of a Pedestrian Accident

Typically, each case progresses in phases. The initial phase involves collecting administrative information, such as police reports, the names of medical providers, health insurance information, automobile insurance, and documents of that nature. Next, there is a period of time in which a Columbia pedestrian accident attorney will follow the person through the course of treatment. When there is an understanding as to whether they have recovered from the injuries sustained in the event, or at least the attorney knows that they have reached the maximum medical improvement, then the attorney will move forward with the demand process.

Demand Process

During this phase a formal demand is made of the at-fault insurance company. This is done once there is a good understanding as to the nature and extent of injuries sustained in the event. The attorney will collect all the pertinent medical information in order to present it to the opposing side. At this point in the case, the at-fault insurance company has to make decision as to whether it wants to engage in negotiations. If the at-fault insurance company decides not to engage in negotiations, the case moves on to the litigation phase. During this phase, a lawsuit is filed in the appropriate court, and the case progresses through the ligation system, until it is ultimately settled or a judge or jury awards final judgment.

Traffic Laws and Rules That Can Impact Liability

Some people believe that pedestrians always have the right of way. However, that is simply not the case. A pedestrian, like the operator of a motor vehicle, is required to conform to the rules of the road. Therefore, a pedestrian must cross the street at the crosswalk and observe traffic signals. If a person is crossing at some other location, such as in the middle of the block, then this act alone may be considered by a reviewing judge or jury as contributory negligence. If a judge or jury finds that the injured party is just one percent responsible for the injury, then the injured person cannot legally recover for the injuries sustained in the collision.

Damages Available

Pedestrians, who are injured by the negligence of another, can have unforeseen financial effects. If a person is hurt and cannot work, then there is a possibility of lost income. If there is a prolonged loss of income, then this can have a lasting economic effect on the injured person’s household.

Likewise, if the injured person does not have health insurance, the overwhelming cost of medical treatment may have a significant effect on the economics of an injured person’s household. These are common issues that come up in many cases. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Columbia will do their best to work with their clients through these issues and guide them as best as they can.

Contacting an Attorney

Whenever anyone is consulting with an Columbia pedestrian accident lawyer and evaluating whether to retain his or her services, the injured person should seriously consider the experience of the attorney and the jurisdiction in which they typically practice.

At some point during the course of the claim, the client will have to rely upon the information provided to the attorney. An attorney-client relationship does not allow for a second opinion in order to corroborate the recommendations of the retained attorney and as such it is important for the client to be comfortable with the attorney from the beginning of the case, because the attorney is going to be advising the client during all phases and all aspects of the case.