Have you been hit by a car while walking or riding your bike? You might be dealing with serious injuries, medical bills, and time off work. You’re probably wondering what to do next and if you have any legal options.
This guide will walk you through the key things to know if you’ve been run over, including your rights, the legal process, and how a personal injury lawyer can help. While every case is different, understanding the basics enables you to make informed choices about moving forward. If you’re struggling after being hit by a car, don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury lawyer for advice tailored to your situation.
Why You Should Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer
After getting run over, one of the most important steps is to speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A personal injury attorney can review the details of your case, explain your legal rights, and clarify your options for seeking compensation. They have deep knowledge of personal injury laws and can guide you through the often confusing legal process.
Insurance companies may try to offer you a quick settlement, but this is often much less than you deserve. A personal injury lawyer will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Don’t try to handle a serious injury case alone – get help from an experienced personal injury lawyer who can advocate for your best interests.
Getting Proper Medical Care After Being Run Over
Your health and recovery should be the top priority after getting hit by a car. Even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor right away. Some serious injuries like internal bleeding or head trauma may not be obvious at first.
Follow all of your doctor’s treatment recommendations and attend any follow-up appointments. Keep detailed records of all your medical care, including bills, prescriptions, and treatment plans. This documentation will be important if you decide to pursue a legal case.
Don’t ignore any lingering pain or symptoms – some injuries from being run over can worsen over time if not properly treated. Focus on your physical and mental recovery before worrying about legal matters. A personal injury attorney can handle the legal side while you concentrate on healing.
Key Takeaways
What Are Your Legal Rights?
When a driver hits a pedestrian or cyclist, the victim often has grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Drivers have a duty to watch for pedestrians and follow traffic laws. They can face legal responsibility if their careless or reckless actions lead to running someone over. You can seek compensation for your lost income, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
There are time limits for filing a lawsuit, so don’t wait too long to explore your options. A personal injury lawyer can review your case’s specifics and explain your legal rights and options. They’ll gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case on your behalf.
How Does Fault Get Determined?
Figuring out who was at fault is a key part of any personal injury case involving a pedestrian who was hit by a car. Police reports, traffic camera footage, eyewitness accounts, and accident reconstructionists may all play a role in determining fault. Speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks can show driver negligence.
A personal injury lawyer will thoroughly investigate all aspects of the incident to establish fault. They know how to gather and present evidence that shows the driver was to blame for hitting you. This is important for proving your right to compensation.
What Damages Can You Seek in a Lawsuit?
If a car has run you over, you can seek damages through a personal injury lawsuit. Medical expenses are often a major component, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care you’ll need. You can claim lost income if your injuries force you to miss work or reduce your earning capacity. You can also seek compensation for your physical pain, emotional trauma, and decreased quality of life.
If you are dealing with permanent disabilities or disfigurement, additional damages may be available. A personal injury lawyer will carefully calculate all your damages to ensure you seek full and fair compensation. They know how to properly value intangible losses like pain and suffering.
How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit?
Every state has laws called statutes of limitations that set deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits. For cases involving pedestrians hit by cars, this time limit is often between one to three years from the date of the incident. However, it can vary depending on your location and the specifics of your case.
It’s best not to wait – evidence can deteriorate over time, and witnesses’ memories may fade. A personal injury lawyer completes all required paperwork and legal filings before deadlines. They’ll keep your case on track and protect your right to seek compensation. Don’t risk losing your chance to file a lawsuit by waiting too long to take action.
What If the Driver Was Uninsured?
Getting hit by an uninsured driver can complicate your case, but you still have options. Your car insurance may provide coverage through uninsured motorist protection. Some states have victim compensation funds to help in these situations. You can still file a lawsuit against the driver personally, although collecting damages may be challenging if they lack assets.
A personal injury lawyer can review all potential sources of compensation in your case. If they were on the job, they could identify other liable parties, like the driver’s employer. An experienced lawyer can pursue all available avenues to get you the compensation you deserve.
Should You Talk to the Driver’s Insurance Company?
It’s common for the at-fault driver’s insurance company to contact you after an accident. While they may seem friendly, remember that they aim to pay out as little as possible.
Be very careful about what you say to them. Don’t give a recorded statement or sign any documents without consulting a personal injury lawyer. Insurance adjusters may try to downplay your injuries or shift blame onto you. They might offer a quick settlement of far less than your case is worth.
What Evidence Is Important for Your Personal Injury Case?
Building a strong personal injury case requires solid evidence. Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage are valuable. Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment are key.
Save any torn or bloodied clothing as evidence. If there are nearby security cameras, try to obtain that footage before someone erases it. Keep a journal detailing your pain levels, limitations, and emotional state as you recover.
A personal injury lawyer knows what evidence is most compelling in these cases. They can collect and preserve important evidence before it gets lost or destroyed. Strong evidence is vital for proving the driver’s fault and the extent of your damages.
How Does the Legal Process Work?
The legal process for a personal injury case can seem overwhelming, but a good lawyer will guide you through each step.
It often starts with sending a demand letter to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If you cannot reach a fair settlement, your lawyer may initiate a formal lawsuit. In a period called discovery, both sides exchange information and evidence. Relevant parties and witnesses may give depositions. Many cases settle during pretrial negotiations, but some do go to trial.
A personal injury lawyer handles all the legal paperwork, court filings, and procedural requirements. They’ll keep you informed throughout the process and advise you on important decisions, like whether to accept a settlement offer.
How Much Is Your Case Worth?
There’s no simple formula for calculating the value of a personal injury case. It depends on many factors, like the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, how much work you missed, and whether you’ll have ongoing limitations.
Cases involving permanent disabilities or disfigurement tend to be worth more. The insurance policy limits of the at-fault driver also play a role.
A personal injury lawyer can give you a ballpark estimate of your case’s potential value based on their experience with similar cases. They know how to properly value all your damages, including hard-to-quantify ones like pain and suffering. An experienced lawyer will fight to get you the maximum compensation for your injuries.
What If the Driver Left the Scene of the Accident?
Hit-and-run accidents where the driver flees after hitting a pedestrian can be especially upsetting. But you still have options for seeking compensation.
Police can track down the driver using witness descriptions, traffic camera footage, or physical evidence left at the scene. Your car insurance may provide coverage through uninsured motorist protection. Some states have special funds to help victims of hit-and-run accidents.
A personal injury lawyer can explore all possible avenues for compensation in these challenging cases. They can collaborate with law enforcement to identify the driver and hold them accountable for their actions. Additionally, they can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the support you need during this difficult time.
How Long Will Your Case Take?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury case can vary widely. Simple cases might settle in a few months, while more complex ones can take a year or longer.
Factors that affect the timeline include the severity of your injuries, whether someone disputes the fault, and how willing the insurance company is to offer a fair settlement. Cases that go to trial generally take longer to resolve.
A personal injury lawyer can give you a rough estimate of how long your case might take based on the specifics of your situation. They’ll work efficiently to move your case forward while still taking the time to build the strongest possible claim on your behalf.
What If You Can’t Afford a Lawyer?
Many people worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer after being injured. The good news is that most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee. They only get compensated if they win your personal injury case.
This agreement allows injured people to get quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation. A personal injury lawyer can explain their fee structure in detail during your initial consultation, which is usually free. Don’t let concerns about cost prevent you from obtaining the legal assistance you need after a car accident.
How Can a Personal Injury Lawyer Help You?
A personal injury lawyer can be a valuable ally if a car has run you over; they have the knowledge and experience to navigate the legal system and fight for your rights.
A good lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if needed. They can ensure you receive proper medical care and document all your injuries and expenses.
Reach Out to a Personal Injury Lawyer to Learn More
If a car has run you over, don’t face it alone. The physical, emotional, and financial impacts can be overwhelming, affecting every aspect of your life and leaving you isolated.
A personal injury lawyer can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. They’ll fight tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Remember, there are time limits for filing a personal injury lawsuit, so it’s important to act quickly. Delaying can jeopardize your ability to seek the compensation you deserve. Most personal injury lawyers offer free initial consultations, so you have nothing to lose by discussing your case with a professional who understands the intricacies.
Reach out to a personal injury lawyer today to learn more about your legal options and take the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve. You can focus on healing with the right support while they advocate for your rights.
