When you’re strolling through the famous Pike Place Fish Market shopping center or crossing the parking lot to go into your local Safeway, the last thing you expect is to be struck by a car. Distracted drivers are a serious hazard to pedestrians. Unfortunately for the poor person afoot, pedestrians suffer much more grievous injuries than drivers when struck by a car.
If you’ve been hit by a car as a pedestrian, you’re likely hurting, unable to work, and worried about money. You have the right to demand compensation for the damages the driver caused you – and our Washington pedestrian accident lawyer can help you get them. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, today to learn more in a free consultation.
Without the protective metal shell of a vehicle, your body suffers serious, sometimes disabling, injuries after being hit by a car. The driver who caused the accident should be held accountable, but it’s hard to know where to turn for help when you’re lying in a hospital bed. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we’re committed to seeking justice for pedestrian accident victims.
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Our Washington pedestrian accident lawyer can help you learn more about your rights and your eligibility to file a lawsuit for damages against the driver who struck you. Contact us today to request your free case consultation.
Yes, Washington law permits pedestrians who were hit by a car to file a lawsuit against the driver. Even if you think you might have been partly to blame for the collision, you can still file a claim against the driver. Compound fractures (bone breaks), a Traumatic Brain Injury or concussion, or internal organ damage can put your life in danger.
While you may be able to get a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, it’s probably low and not a reflection of the true value of your case. If you need long-term medical care for your injuries or extensive surgeries – both of which are quite likely after being hit by a car – then your settlement may not cover it.
You don’t have to have an attorney to file a claim for compensation. However, if the driver’s insurance company denies it or tries to pin the blame on you, it’s usually best to seek legal advice to get resolution.
An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can gather evidence proving the driver was the at-fault party in the crash and, therefore, liable for any losses you suffered. Your lawyer may also be able to negotiate a higher settlement with the insurance company than you could on your own and take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to pay.
Navigating the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, and at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we’re here to shed light on the legal damages that may arise in such cases. We are ready to help you from our firm with any issues or concerns that you have with your case. Below, we discuss key considerations for those seeking compensation after a pedestrian accident in Washington.
Medical Expenses
One of the primary damages in a pedestrian accident case is medical expenses. This encompasses the cost of emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments. Washington residents pursuing a pedestrian accident claim may seek compensation for past and future medical costs related to the injuries sustained.
Lost Wages And Future Earning Capacity
Pedestrian accidents often result in injuries that may require time away from work. Individuals may seek compensation for lost wages during their recovery period. Additionally, if the injuries impact the victim’s ability to work in the future, they may be entitled to damages for the loss of future earning capacity. Your legal team will look into this for you and help to get the compensation deserved from the accident.
Pain And Suffering
Compensation for pain and suffering is a critical component of damages in a pedestrian accident case. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact the accident has had on the victim’s quality of life. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we work diligently to quantify and pursue fair compensation for the pain and suffering experienced by their clients.
Property Damage
In pedestrian accidents, property damage may extend beyond damage to the vehicle involved. Victims may seek compensation for personal belongings damaged during the accident, such as clothing, electronics, or other items they were carrying at the time of the incident. Your lawyer will fill you in more on this during the case.
Wrongful Death Damages
Tragically, some pedestrian accidents result in fatalities. In such cases, surviving family members may be entitled to wrongful death damages, including funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and financial losses associated with the deceased person’s contributions to the household.
At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, our team of experienced auto accident lawyers understands the how to calculate and pursue damages in pedestrian accident cases. We’re committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal representation to help victims and their families seek the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Washington, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, today for guidance and advocacy. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve after a pedestrian accident. Our attorney is standing by and ready to take your consultation and get you the much deserved compensation for your accident injuries or property damage from the incident.
According to the National Safety Council, almost 9,000 pedestrians die in pedestrian non-traffic incidents each year. The majority of those accidents – 85 percent – occur in urban areas. Almost 75 percent happen during evening and night hours, and 23 percent take place at intersections.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our skilled Washington pedestrian accident attorney to seek the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident as a pedestrian, our lawyers can help you recover compensation for your injuries. Pedestrian accidents can be life-altering events, leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In such situations, having a dedicated legal advocate is crucial.
If you are prepared to move forward with a claim, contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today to discover how we can help you.
As a pedestrian involved in an accident, it’s important to understand your rights. Often, these accidents result from driver negligence, such as failing to yield, distracted driving, or speeding. A Washington pedestrian accident lawyer will help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law, assisting you in understanding your legal options and the process of seeking compensation.
A pedestrian accident lawyer plays a crucial role in your recovery journey. We assist with all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident scene to negotiating with insurance companies. We work tirelessly to gather evidence, consult with medical specialists, and build a strong case on your behalf. Our knowledge of local and state laws helps ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An experienced lawyer will evaluate your case to determine the full extent of damages you are entitled to and will fight to maximize your compensation. Our lawyers know how important compensation is for you in starting your recovery process, and we will fight to ensure that you receive the help you deserve.
Selecting the right attorney is crucial for your case’s success. A lawyer who has a proven track record in handling pedestrian accident cases is invaluable for their understanding of the laws, legal process, and negotiating tactics of insurance companies. The right attorney should not only have the legal knowledge and experience but also the empathy to understand your situation and the dedication to pursue your case with vigor.
Time is of the essence when dealing with pedestrian accident cases. There are statutory deadlines for filing personal injury claims, and evidence can become less reliable over time. Promptly seeking legal advice ensures that your case is handled effectively and that your rights are safeguarded.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Our team of skilled attorneys is ready to advocate for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Our Washington pedestrian accident lawyer is committed to providing you with the support, guidance, and representation you need. Contact Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards your recovery.
If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may want to speak with a Washington pedestrian accident lawyer. You may be entitled to compensation. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about pedestrian accident lawyers.
When is the ideal time to seek the services of a pedestrian accident lawyer?
It is advisable to seek the services of a pedestrian accident lawyer promptly after the incident occurs. Early involvement allows the attorney to gather pertinent evidence, communicate with relevant parties, and establish a solid foundation for the legal proceedings that may follow.
How do pedestrian accident lawyers establish liability in these cases?
Determining liability in pedestrian accident cases involves a thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Attorneys employ investigative methods, including collecting evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and expert assessments. Establishing liability is essential for constructing a compelling case on behalf of the injured pedestrian.
How is the compensation amount determined in pedestrian accident cases?
The calculation of compensation in pedestrian accident cases takes into consideration factors such as medical bills, lost income, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and the extent of emotional distress. Pedestrian accident lawyers leverage these variables to negotiate or litigate for a fair and comprehensive settlement on behalf of their clients.
Is it recommended to communicate with the involved parties’ insurance companies without legal representation?
It is generally not advisable to engage in direct communication with the involved parties’ insurance companies without consulting a pedestrian accident lawyer. Legal representation ensures that individuals are protected from potential pitfalls, and negotiations with insurance entities are conducted in a manner that preserves their rights.
If you want to file an injury claim, contact a Washington pedestrian accident lawyer. At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we want to help you get justice.
At Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC, we know how overwhelming it can be to face the aftermath of a pedestrian accident. If you’ve been injured as a pedestrian, understanding key legal terms is critical as you consider your options for pursuing compensation. Below is a breakdown of important legal concepts that may come into play in your case.
Comparative fault refers to a legal principle used to determine the level of responsibility each party has in an accident. In Washington, a “pure comparative fault” system is used, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your total recovery will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
For instance, if a pedestrian is hit by a distracted driver while crossing a street outside of a crosswalk and is found to be 20% at fault, they can still recover 80% of the damages they’re entitled to. This system allows injured pedestrians to seek compensation even when they share some responsibility for the incident.
Pain and suffering refer to the non-economic losses that a victim experiences after an accident. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, which are tangible financial losses, pain and suffering account for the emotional distress, physical pain, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident.
For example, a pedestrian who suffers a fractured leg that requires surgery and months of physical therapy may also endure anxiety about walking near traffic again or a loss of enjoyment in daily activities. These intangible impacts are an essential part of a pedestrian accident claim, and calculating them often requires experienced legal guidance.
Every auto insurance policy includes specific limits on how much the insurance company will pay for a car accident. These policy limits can influence the amount of compensation you receive after a pedestrian accident. For example, if a driver has a $50,000 liability limit but the pedestrian’s damages total $100,000, the remaining $50,000 may need to be pursued through other means, such as suing the driver directly or seeking compensation under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Understanding policy limits is critical to identifying all potential sources of compensation. An attorney can review the applicable policies and help you recover the maximum amount available under the law.
Subrogation is a process where your own insurance company seeks reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurance company after paying for your medical expenses or other damages. For example, if you file a claim under your own health insurance or auto insurance policy following a pedestrian accident, your insurer may later attempt to recover those costs from the driver’s insurance carrier.
Subrogation is a complex legal process, and it’s important to have an attorney who can help you understand how it might affect your case. This includes negotiating with your insurer to minimize the amount they recover so that you can keep more of your settlement.
The pedestrian right of way refers to the legal protections that pedestrians have in specific traffic situations. In Washington, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Failing to yield is a common cause of pedestrian accidents and is often a key factor in determining fault.
For instance, if a driver runs a red light and strikes a pedestrian crossing legally at an intersection, the driver is likely at fault for failing to honor the pedestrian’s right of way. Understanding these rules helps strengthen your claim by establishing the driver’s responsibility for the accident.
Have you been hit by a car while walking or riding your bike? You could be eligible to file a suit for damages against the careless driver who caused the wreck. Contact our Washington pedestrian accident lawyer from Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC today for a free consultation to learn about your options.
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When you request your free consultation, Kent personal injury attorney Zach Herschensohn will listen to you, answer your questions, lay out your legal options, and give you down-to-earth legal advice.
When you work with our law office, there are no obligations, hidden fees, or fine print. It’s that simple.
Lawyer fees for car accident cases vary. Most work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement. Hourly rates might range from $100 to $500+. Additional costs like filing fees can apply. Free consultations help you understand the fee structure.
Most injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, taking 25% to 40% of the settlement or award. This means they’re only paid if they win your case.
In Florida, lawyers typically take a contingency fee of around 33% to 40% of the settlement amount in personal injury cases. This fee structure ensures they are paid only if your case is successful.
