Some New Jersey roads can get rather busy, being shared by cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and mass transit. So as a pedestrian with no physical protection whatsoever, you are oftentimes left in a vulnerable position, especially when you are up against the sheer mass and velocity of other automobiles. If you were involved in a pedestrian accident, you have the right to fight for the financial compensation that you need to heal. Continue reading to learn the common causes of pedestrian accidents and how an experienced Morris County, New Jersey auto accident lawyer at The Macri Law Firm can help you in filing your claim.
How do pedestrian accidents occur in the state of New Jersey?
There are several ways in which pedestrian accidents may occur. But in the state of New Jersey, these are the most common ways:
- Poor road conditions:
- Potholes or otherwise uneven surfaces.
- Debris.
- Spills.
- Sidewalk closures.
- Roads with obstructed visibility.
- Driver negligence:
- Speeding.
- Driving without headlights at night or in bad weather.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Failing to check crosswalks, streetlights, or stop signs before proceeding.
- Pedestrian negligence:
- Failing to attention while walking.
- Failing to cross within the crosswalk.
- Failing to check streetlights before proceeding.
What do I do if I am Injured by Another Party’s Negligence?
If you received an injury in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to file a PIP claim to cover your immediate medical bills and lost wages, among other expenses. If you do not have car insurance, you should still be able to file a PIP claim against the driver’s insurance.
Nonetheless, if your accident and subsequent injuries were due to no fault of your own, you must prove this in your pedestrian accident claim. To help with satisfying this burden of proof, you should take the following approach:
- Call 911: a law enforcement officer will arrive on the scene to conduct a police report and dispatch an ambulance on your behalf.
- Document the scene: take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, including your injuries, damages, and any contributory hazards. Ask witnesses for similar documentation.
- Collect contact information: ask the negligent party for their name, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance company name, insurance policy number, etc. Ask witnesses for similar information.
- Seek medical attention: get treated at the scene, but also go to the hospital afterward. This will ensure that your injuries are fully attended to while also providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. With this, you should collect any relevant medical bills, medical documents, and doctor’s notes.
- Hire a skilled Parsippany, New Jersey personal injury lawyer: we will help you obtain surveillance camera footage of your accident occurring, among other pieces of evidence. Call us today.
CONTACT OUR MORRIS COUNTY FIRM
If you require the services of an experienced team of attorneys for legal matters related to estate planning, personal injury, or medical malpractice, contact The Macri Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.
