Pedestrian accidents occur more than you might think. The best way to protect yourself in a situation like this is to have a plan and be as prepared as possible. Continue reading to discover the most common causes of pedestrian accidents and what steps to take following being injured in an accident. Reach out to our experienced personal injury attorney today to discuss your options for financial compensation.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents?
The most common causes of pedestrian accidents are typically caused by negligence and drivers simply not paying enough attention to the road in front of them. Some of the most common causes of negligent driving include the follows:
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Use of electronic devices
- Driving while fatigued
- Speeding
Some outside factors may also have an effect on the cause of a pedestrian accident. Some of these factors include weather and road conditions causing the following:
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Poor visibility
- Closed sidewalks
- Construction
- Potholes
- Uneven surfaces
However, if you believe that the pedestrian accident that you were involved in was caused prominently by road conditions, you may want to look into filing a personal injury claim against a municipality for its failure to keep up with proper road maintenance.
What should I do if I am hurt as a pedestrian in an accident?
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, it is best to have a plan in place. Follow these steps to protect yourself and to set yourself up for a successful personal injury claim:
- Call the police. The police will be able to document the incident and bring any necessary medical assistance to the scene. They will also be able to redirect traffic if necessary. It is important not to leave the spot and not to move any vehicles if possible before the police arrive on the scene.
- Seek medical attention immediately. Collect all medical documents relating to your injuries that should include the date, time, and severity of your injuries.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved. It is best to keep this conversation short and polite. Also, avoid saying “sorry” and admitting any fault.
- Speak with any witnesses to the accident and collect their contact information. This should include their name, phone number, and email address.
- Take photos of the scene including damages and injuries.
- Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who will help you recover the compensation you require to heal.
What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland is generally three years. This means that you will have three years from the date of your accident to take legal action against the negligent party involved in your accident. It is important to understand this time frame and to take action as soon as possible to avoid being barred from suing. Reach out to an experienced Maryland personal injury attorney today to discuss your options and learn more about our services.
Contact Us Today
Our firm understands how overwhelming the claims process can be, which is why it is our job to handle the entire legal side of the matter while you focus solely on what matters most: healing. We know the ins and outs of the claims process, and we are ready to put our knowledge and experience in the field to work for you. Contact The Dorsey Law Firm today to schedule your free initial consultation.
