Pedestrian accidents are more common than many people realize. Over five years, an average of 225 people died as a result of these accidents each year. Thousands of other victims are injured and left with serious injuries that affect their lives forever.
If you or someone you know has been hurt in an accident, you may need the support of a Maple Grove pedestrian accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, our accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, offers free consultations to help you understand your options and plan your next steps.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Claims
A pedestrian accident claim is a way for someone who has been hurt in a pedestrian accident to get financial help for the costs they face as a result of the accident. When a driver hits a pedestrian, the person who was hit often faces medical bills, lost income, and physical and emotional pain. A pedestrian injury attorney near me works to ensure you get fair compensation for these issues.
The laws around Minnesota pedestrian accidents are built to protect people on foot and hold careless drivers accountable. However, proving fault in these cases can be challenging without the help of a lawyer.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, and often, it’s because drivers aren’t being as careful as they should be. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers using their phones or not paying attention.
- Speeding: Going too fast makes it hard to stop in time.
- Driving Under the Influence: Being impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- Failure to Yield: Not stopping for pedestrians in crosswalks or stop signs.
A Maple Grove auto accident lawyer can help you understand how these causes play into your case and what you can do to get the compensation you need.
Injuries Associated with Pedestrian Accidents
When a car hits a person, the injuries are often severe. Pedestrians have little protection, which means they can suffer from things like:
- Broken Bones: Common in arms, legs, and ribs.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Caused by hitting the ground or being hit by the vehicle.
- Spinal Injuries: This can result in long-term problems or even paralysis.
If you’ve suffered from any of these injuries, contacting the best pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove can help you take the first steps toward recovery and justice.
Your Rights as a Pedestrian Accident Victim
As a pedestrian, you have rights. These rights include receiving no-fault benefits, typically through your own insurance company, as well as bringing a personal injury claim against any at fault driver. Through your no-fault claim, you are entitled to receive up to $20,000 in medical expenses and mileage, and up to $20,000 in wage loss and replacement services. Through your personal injury claim against the at fault driver, you can recover compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by the accident. A top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove will help you understand these rights and what you can expect during your claim process.
You shouldn’t have to deal with the financial consequences of an accident on your own. The law gives you the opportunity to seek compensation for both the physical and emotional harm you’ve suffered.
Proving Fault in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Proving fault in pedestrian accident cases can be challenging because there are often many factors to consider. A pedestrian accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, will thoroughly investigate the incident to establish who was responsible. They’ll gather various forms of evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. Here’s what this might involve:
Witness Statements
Testimonies from people who saw the accident can provide a clear account of what happened. Witnesses might include other pedestrians, drivers, or nearby residents. These statements can be crucial in establishing fault.
Traffic Camera Footage
Video evidence, if available, can be compelling. Cameras at intersections or on nearby buildings can capture the accident in real-time, showing exactly what happened and who was at fault. This is true for many areas, including intersections, crosswalks, and more.
Accident Reports
Official reports filed by the police or insurance companies are critical pieces of evidence. These police reports often include details about the location of the accident, statements from those involved, and the officer’s initial assessment of what caused the accident.
Physical Evidence
Sometimes, physical evidence like skid marks, vehicle damage, or the location of crosswalks and traffic signals can help clarify the events leading up to the accident.
Without a lawyer’s guidance, it’s easy to overlook these details or let insurance companies downplay your claim. A skilled attorney will gather and analyze all relevant evidence, ensuring a fair assessment of liability and holding the responsible party accountable. This approach strengthens your case and improves your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
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The Importance of Hiring an Attorney
Hiring a no-win, no-fee pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove is essential because they will only get paid if you win your case. This means your lawyer is motivated to get you the best possible outcome.
A lawyer knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and fight in court if necessary. Their experience in handling similar cases allows them to guide you through the legal system while protecting your interests.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
There are several steps you need to take after an accident to ensure your rights are protected. These include:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the most important thing. Even if you feel okay, get checked by a doctor.
- Call the Police: They will document the accident and gather evidence.
- Gather Information: Take pictures, write down details, and get contact information from witnesses.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, to discuss your case.
Following these steps will help you protect your rights and make it easier to build a strong case.
How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
A Maple Grove pedestrian accident lawyer can play many roles in your case. They will:
- Gather Evidence: By collecting photos, witness statements, and police reports.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle for less, and a lawyer can fight to get what you deserve.
- Represent You in Court: If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will present your case and defend your rights.
With a skilled lawyer on your side, you can focus on recovering while they handle the legal details.
Filing a Pedestrian Accident Claim in Maple Grove
Filing a pedestrian accident claim can be a complex process, but a top-rated pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove will help simplify things for you. There are several crucial steps to follow, and your lawyer will guide you through each one to ensure that everything is handled correctly and within legal deadlines. Here’s what the process generally looks like:
Initial Consultation
Your lawyer will review the details of your accident, gather evidence, and determine whether you have a strong case. This initial meeting is crucial to establish the foundation of your claim.
Gathering Evidence
Your lawyer will collect all necessary documents, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements. This step is essential to build a strong case against the responsible party.
Filing the Claim
The lawyer will help prepare and submit the paperwork, ensuring that all forms are accurate and complete. In Minnesota, there are specific timelines for filing claims, known as the statute of limitations. Missing these deadlines can result in losing the right to seek compensation.
Negotiations with Insurance Companies
After filing the claim, your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf. This step is crucial, as insurers often try to offer lower settlements to save money.
Potential Court Action
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare to take your case to court, where they will represent you and fight for the compensation you deserve.
By starting your claim quickly and working with an experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Maple Grove, MN, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
The Financial Impact of a Pedestrian Accident
Pedestrian accidents can lead to long-term financial challenges for victims and their families. Medical bills, ongoing care, lost income, and other expenses can add up quickly. A pedestrian injury attorney near me will work to secure compensation for these costs and any future expenses you might face.
It’s not just about covering the immediate bills—it’s about ensuring you have the support you need moving forward.
Compensation Available to Pedestrian Accident Victims
If you’ve been hurt in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to different types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital bills, surgeries, and physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Replacing income you’ve lost due to being unable to work.
- Pain and Suffering: For the emotional and physical pain you’ve experienced.
The best pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove will help you determine what compensation you can pursue and how to prove your case effectively.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Maple Groves
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we are dedicated to helping victims of pedestrian accidents throughout their legal journey. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to review the details of your case, answer your questions, and provide a clear explanation of your legal options.
Our experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Maple Grove is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve and guiding you every step of the way. Don’t face this difficult situation alone. Reach out to our team today to get started.
