If you or someone you love has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you are likely feeling confused, anxious, and overwhelmed. At this time, you may have many questions and concerns about what steps to take next. You are not alone. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about how to proceed with a personal injury claim, especially when dealing with the physical and emotional pain that often comes after such an accident. Our team is here to help you understand your options and guide you through the process. We understand the stress that comes with these types of cases and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Indiana, whether it’s on a busy city street or a quiet residential road, your first priority should always be your health and safety. After seeking medical attention for your injuries, your next step should be understanding your rights under Indiana law. If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, before you can claim this compensation, you must follow certain legal steps to ensure your case is handled properly.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
After a pedestrian accident, the first thing you should do is get medical attention, even if you don’t feel hurt. Some injuries, like internal damage or head trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. Once you are safe and receiving treatment, it is important to document the accident scene as much as possible. If you are able, take pictures of the area where the accident occurred, including any damage to vehicles involved, traffic signs, and nearby surroundings. This will serve as vital evidence should you need to prove your case.
If you were able to, exchange contact information with the driver involved in the accident and any witnesses who saw what happened. Their testimony can play a crucial role in supporting your claim. You should also file a police report if one has not already been made. This report will detail the circumstances of the accident and can serve as an important piece of evidence during your case.
Attorney Christopher Wyant is here to help you.
With over 17 years of experience, Attorney Wyant has spent his entire legal career representing individuals who have been injured or killed as a result of the carelessness of others. With trial experience in over 20 jury trials, he has handled cases involving wrongful death and personal injury arising out of automobile crashes, premises liability, slips and falls, dog attacks, and civil rights violations.
Working With Your Insurance Company
In the state of Indiana, the process of filing a personal injury claim typically begins with your own insurance company. Even if the other party caused the accident, your insurance policy may cover some of the costs right away. This is where your insurance policy’s coverage for pedestrian accidents can make a difference. Keep in mind that you may still need to deal with the other driver’s insurance company to get full compensation.
However, insurance companies are often quick to offer low settlements to avoid paying out large amounts. It’s essential to remember that the first offer may not be enough to cover all your expenses. That’s why having an attorney to guide you through the negotiation process is crucial. Insurance companies can sometimes undervalue your claim, which is why having the right support is key to ensuring that you receive a fair settlement.
My husband and I were involved in an auto accident. The driver that hit us was without a doubt at fault. In less than 2 days we were getting calls from the driver’s insurance company wanting us to accept 15% fault. The calls kept coming to try and push us into a settlement. We decided to get legal help and found Chris Wyant. Once Chris took over we felt a big load lifted. He is very knowledgeable, well prepared and makes everything so much easier to understand the process. Chris has a very diligent work ethic that gets results. We are so very grateful to have found Chris. We highly recommend Chris Wyant.”
- Kathaleen Boyce
Chris was awesome from the very first meeting. Very professional and knowledgeable. He knew what needed to be done and what he needed from us. He was exceptionally easy to work with and very patient with all of the questions we had. All we had to do was either call or email him with a question and he responded as quickly as he could. I couldn’t be happier with his services. I would definitely recommend his practice to anyone."
- Rita Bridge
God Bless Wyant Law. I can honestly say that Chris went to bat for me in such a huge way during such a trying time. He was very professional and upfront about every step he took. I would 100 percent recommend Wyant Law for your legal needs."
- Briana Shouse
Filing a Personal Injury Claim
Once you’ve been treated for your injuries and have gathered evidence, you will be ready to try to resolve your claim, either directly with the insurance company or by filing a personal injury lawsuit and working through the litigation process. A personal injury insurance claim or lawsuit can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. To pursue a claim or file a lawsuit, your attorney will typically gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness testimonies, to build a strong case on your behalf.
In Indiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims related to pedestrian accidents is two years. This means that you must have your claim resolved or have a lawsuit filed within two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to file a claim, so it’s important to take action as soon as possible.
How an Attorney Can Help You
Filing a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident can be complicated and overwhelming. With medical bills piling up and the stress of recovering from injuries, it can be difficult to know where to begin. That’s where an attorney can help. A lawyer can provide you with the legal knowledge and experience needed to navigate the complex insurance processes and ensure your rights are protected. They can also handle the negotiation with insurance companies, and if necessary, represent you in court to get the compensation you deserve.
At Wyant Law, we understand that every pedestrian accident case is unique. We are here to offer guidance, support, and expertise during this challenging time. If you are unsure about how to proceed or need help understanding the process, we are here to assist you every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to helping injured pedestrians get the results they deserve, and we will fight for your rights.
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Understanding the Compensation You May Be Eligible For
When pursuing a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident, it is important to know the types of compensation you may be entitled to. Medical expenses are one of the most common forms of compensation, covering the cost of hospital visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other necessary treatments. Additionally, if your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can be especially important if your injuries are long-term or permanent, making it difficult for you to return to your regular job duties. Other damages, such as pain and suffering, can also be a significant part of your claim, especially if you experience emotional distress as a result of your accident.
Why Insurance Companies Might Try to Lowball Your Claim
One of the challenges many accident victims face is dealing with insurance companies that try to reduce their payouts. These companies are in business to make a profit, and the less they pay out, the better it is for their bottom line. Often, they will attempt to offer you a quick settlement that may seem reasonable at first but falls short of covering your full expenses and losses. Without legal representation, it can be difficult to identify whether the offer is fair. An experienced attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring that you do not settle for less than what you deserve. Having the right lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, time is of the essence. The sooner you begin your claim, the sooner you can start receiving the compensation you need for your recovery. The evidence surrounding your accident can disappear over time, so it’s important to act quickly. Insurance companies may also try to minimize the amount they pay out, making it essential to work with an attorney who can protect your interests and ensure you receive a fair settlement.
We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be a stressful and emotional time. At Wyant Law, we are here to help you navigate through the legal complexities of your case. We are committed to providing you with personalized attention and working diligently to secure the best possible outcome for you. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Indiana, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is ready to help you take the first steps toward obtaining the compensation you deserve.
