Helping Injured Pedestrians Overcome Roadblocks In Personal Injury Claims
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle the result is often severe – even fatal – injuries. Pedestrian accident victims have rights that protect them and entitle them to compensation. If you were hurt as a pedestrian, you have the right to receive medical treatment for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other nonfinancial losses. However, the insurance system has a way of putting up roadblocks in your pursuit of what you deserve.
At MJP Injury Law, our Bronx car accident attorneys help injured pedestrians across New York fight for what they deserve. We listen to their cases, and then we take action. We guide our clients through the difficult aspects of the law and fight tooth and nail to secure compensation for their injuries.
Steps To Take Immediately After The Accident
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, the immediate steps you take can significantly influence the outcome of your case. These crucial steps include:
- Seeking immediate medical attention: Even if your injuries appear minor, get a thorough medical check-up. Some symptoms may not manifest immediately and having a record of your initial condition is crucial for any future claims.
- Calling 911: Notify the authorities about the accident. They’ll dispatch an ambulance if needed and send a police officer to document the scene.
- Documenting the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicle involved and any other relevant factors such as road conditions or traffic signals. This evidence can be invaluable in establishing liability.
- Gathering witness information: If there were any witnesses, get their contact information. Their statements can support your claim.
- Reporting the accident to your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident. Be factual but avoid admitting fault or providing more details than necessary.
- Keeping Records: Maintain a record of all medical treatments, expenses, lost wages and any other accident-related costs.
At every step of this process, our team of Bronx auto accident lawyers can help you. We understand the legal system and the tactics used against you, and we will advocate for the outcome you deserve.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident and are considering filing a personal injury claim, we’re here to guide you through the process. The following is a quick overview of the steps involved:
- Identify your claims: The first step is to file a ‘complaint’ where you identify your claims against the person or business you’re suing, also known as the defendant.
- Notify the defendant: Next, you’ll need to file a ‘summons’ to notify the defendant that they’re being sued.
- Consider small claims court: If your injuries were minor and you’re not planning on asking for more than a few thousand dollars from the at-fault party, consider filing your personal injury case in small claims court.
- Choose the right court: If you live in New York City and you’re asking for less than $25,000 in total personal injury damages, the Civil Court of the City of New York might be the right court for your lawsuit.
- Provide your contact information: When filing the lawsuit, make sure to provide your contact information.
- Choose an attorney: It’s important to have a competent legal team by your side. At MJP Injury Law, we’re ready to stand with you and fight for your rights.
Potential damages you may be eligible to recover in a personal injury claim include the following:
- All relevant medical expenses, both past and future
- Any lost wages from missed work
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering endured because of the accident
- Punitive damages, in rare cases where the accident was caused by malice or gross negligence
- Attorney fees
Our car accident lawyers in the Bronx are committed to fighting for you from beginning to end and we’re ready to hear from you.
Statute Of Limitations
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in New York, it’s critical to understand the legal time limit, or ‘statute of limitations,’ that applies to your case.
In New York, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. It’s essential to act within this period, as failing to do so can result in your claim being dismissed, regardless of its validity.
When You Need A Bronx Car Accident Lawyer To Fight For You, Call Us
Our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys at MJP Injury Law are here to help victims overcome their legal challenges in the pursuit of compensation. We understand the challenges victims face in recovering physically, emotionally and financially.
Contact us today at 718-557-9693 or by sending an email to schedule a free consultation.