Sometimes, pedestrians and vehicles share the road. For example, it can be difficult for walkers to cross busy streets. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents occur often, and can be severe or even deadly. As a result, it is important to know what to do in the event of an injury. Read on to learn more about pedestrian accidents in Maryland.
Common Causes of Accidents
Accidents can be caused by factors like faulty car parts and hazardous road or weather conditions, among others. But, for the most part, accidents are caused by either driver or pedestrian negligence. Some of the most common forms of negligence include:
- Driving recklessly
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Pedestrian failure to use crosswalks
- Pedestrian failure to follow lights and signs
Recovering Compensation
If you are injured by a vehicle due to another party’s negligence, you will have to prove that this negligence occurred. To do this, you should call 911. The police can call you an ambulance, file a report, gather witness statements, and conduct chemical tests. While waiting for the ambulance, you should take pictures and videos of the scene, and gather the contact information of the other party as well as any bystanders. At the hospital, make sure to ask your doctor for copies of any relevant medical documents. These documents will help prove the origin and extent of your injuries.
Economic vs. Non-Economic Damages
When it comes to a pedestrian accident, there are two types of compensation you may be able to recover:
- Economic damages: this compensation covers things like medical expenses, lost wages, the cost of rehabilitation, the need to hire in-home care, and more.
- Non-economic damages: this compensation is awarded for burdens such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.
Statute of Limitations
If you wish to pursue legal action for your injury, you will need to make sure you file your personal injury claim on time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. Generally, in the state of Maryland, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is three years. This means that if you fail to file your claim within three years from the date of your accident, you will likely lose your opportunity to recover compensation. To avoid missing any important deadlines, contact a skilled personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a pedestrian accident in Maryland, contact a dedicated personal injury attorney. We understand the toll an accident can take and we want to fight to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured as a result of a personal injury accident and wish to speak with an attorney,?contact?Ruben Law Firm?today.
