Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents frequently occur with no fault by the pedestrian themself, but due to drivers ignoring the rules and regulations of the road. Continue reading to discover how you can protect yourself after being injured in a pedestrian accident and how a St. Mary’s County pedestrian accident lawyer at the Dorsey Law Firm can help you set up a plan for financial compensation.
What are the most common causes of pedestrian accidents in Maryland?
Even an uber careful pedestrian stands little chance against a negligent driver. The most common types of driver negligence that lead to pedestrian accidents in the state of Maryland are as follows:
- Distracted driving, which includes using electronic devices without hands-free technology.
- Reckless driving, which includes failure to yield, running stop signs or otherwise disregarding traffic signs, excessive speed, etc.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued.
Some outside factors at no fault by the driver or pedestrian may also have an effect on the cause of an accident. The following are a few examples:
- 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 can still file a personal injury claim against a municipality for its failure to keep up with proper road maintenance.
What do I do if I have been injured in a pedestrian accident?
In the event that you are involved in a pedestrian accident, having a plan in place will allow you to better collect the proof you need to receive the compensation for your potential long-term physical, mental, and financial burdens. Follow these steps to set yourself up for a successful personal injury claim:
- Call the police. They will conduct a police report and bring medical attention. Be sure to collect the police report from the law enforcement officer and the medical documents from the hospital afterward.
- Collect the personal information and insurance information of the person driving the vehicle. This should include their name, contact information, driver’s license number, insurance company name, and insurance policy number. Additionally, collect any witnesses’ contact information.
- Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, including injuries and damages.
- Contact a knowledgeable Leonardtown personal injury lawyer to help you recover the compensation you require to heal.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations is typically 3 years from the date of the accident.
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.
