Pedestrian accidents are common in the United States, causing deaths and injuries yearly. While the medical bills associated with these accidents can be substantial, the hidden costs can be just as significant, affecting the victim's financial stability and quality of life. Unfortunately, victims often overlook the importance of accurately accounting for the full range of costs they incur.
Estimate Your Lost Wages
A pedestrian that has been injured in an accident may be unable to work for weeks or longer. This loss of income can significantly impact their financial stability and quality of life. For instance, if a pedestrian is hit by a car and suffers a broken leg, they may be unable to work for several months while they recover. During this time, they may miss out on thousands of dollars in wages and benefits, making it difficult to pay bills and meet their daily expenses.
A pedestrian accident attorney can help victims recover lost wages by calculating the total income they would have earned if they had not been injured, including future earnings potential. They can also negotiate with the at-fault party's insurance company or take the case to court if necessary. This can help the victim secure the compensation they need to cover their lost wages.
Recovering Losses For Any Property Damage
Pedestrian accidents can also result in property damage, such as damage to clothing, personal belongings, or vehicles. For example, if a pedestrian was hit by a car and their phone was destroyed in the accident, they may need to replace it at their own expense. Providing photographs of the damaged items and realistic replacement costs can be one option for gathering evidence for this part of your claim.
Compensation For The Emotional Trauma
Pedestrian accidents can also cause significant emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. For example, a pedestrian hit by a car and narrowly escaped death may experience ongoing anxiety and fear while walking near traffic or crossing the street. These side effects may particularly impact those living in urban areas where walking near busy roads may be unavoidable.
Documenting And Claiming Medical Expenses
Pedestrian accidents often result in significant medical expenses. These can include hospital bills, medications, and rehabilitation costs. The cost of this treatment can add up quickly, leaving the victim and their family with substantial medical bills. While their health insurance may cover some of these expenses, they may still be liable for deductibles and other costs associated with their treatment. Pursuing a case against the at-fault party can provide compensation to reimburse the victim for these sizable expenses.
To learn more, contact a personal injury attorney in your area.
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