Many people use walking as a means to get to where they need to be. In doing so, they are not provided with any protection to their person, whereas cars driving by do. Accidents can happen at any time, which is why pedestrians should always be careful and aware of their surroundings. They can happen due to a pedestrian’s own actions or those of a negligent driver. If a pedestrian becomes injured by a motor vehicle, that driver may be liable.
It is important to know that those who are harmed in personal injury accidents can receive compensation for any damages that arise as a result. This provides coverage for any traumas incurred. Coverage can include any medical bills, lost wages, or emotional suffering. With this compensation, injured victims can focus on recovering instead of worrying about overwhelming bills.
Personal Injury Protection
When a pedestrian is injured by a motor vehicle in an accident, they may be covered by Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PIP is no-fault insurance that the majority of automobile insurance policies carry for those who are involved in motor vehicle accidents. This provides them with coverage through compensation for certain damages. The compensation is available to all victims of the accident regardless of who is at fault.
If PIP does not cover the entirety of these costs, the injured party may be able to receive additional compensation. This can be achieved through a personal injury lawsuit. In can be beneficial to enlist an experienced attorney during this time to assist them throughout the process.
Proving Negligence
In order to receive additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, the injured party is required to prove the motor vehicle driver was negligent. They must also prove this negligence directly caused their injuries and damages. To do this successfully, the injured party must show the driver was unsafe and this behavior led to the accident. Actions that may be deemed as negligence can include using a phone while driving, driving under the influence, reckless driving, speeding, and more.
Sometimes, a third party may be involved in an accident. This may be due to the negligence of the vehicle manufacturer or even a municipality. When this happens, it is still possible for the individual to receive compensation from the third parties. In a lawsuit, both economic and non-economic damages can be awarded. This is because when accidents happen, people often suffer physically and emotionally. Economic damages are available to cover medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages provide coverage for emotional traumas such as pain and suffering.
Contact our Firm
Hausman & Pendzick effectively represents victims of neglect in Westchester County and across the state of New York. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.