Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Pedestrian Accidents- What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?
- Who pays if I incur an injury due to an auto accident?
- The insurance company is offering me a settlement. Should I take it?
- What issues will I face in making a claim for my injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident?
- How will I pay for my medical bills?
- How long does a personal injury claim take to resolve?
- My doctor notified me that I have a permanent injury as a result of my auto accident. What does this mean?
1. What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?
First, you should seek proper medical attention.
If you are conscious at the scene, collect all contact information from the other driver (driver’s license numbers, address, phone number, insurance card information, etc.).
Make sure to keep a daily journal beginning with the date of the accident to document all physical and mental injuries, as well as to document your view of the accident.
Finally, contact a pedestrian accident attorney at Brett Murphy - Washington's Injury Lawyers who can assist you to receive prompt, fair, and just compensation from the party who caused the accident. Do not make a statement to an insurance adjuster without representation by a personal injury lawyer.
2. Who pays if I incur an injury due to an auto accident?
The liability insurance of the person who caused the pedestrian accident is obligated to pay for any property damage and personal injuries; however, this does not happen automatically. Insurance companies are in business to make a profit, so the insurance adjuster’s job is to settle your claim for as little as possible. The insurance adjuster for the party who caused your damage is not on your side. Do not make a statement to an insurance adjuster without representation by an attorney.
3. The insurance company is offering me a settlement. Should I take it?
No. Never take an insurance check without first consulting a lawyer. Tell the insurance company that you will get back to them. In the meantime, contact a personal injury attorney at Brett Murphy - Washington's Injury Lawyers. An insurance company may offer a minimal amount of money in return for your signature stating that you will not sue them. We offer a free claim evaluation. We will advise you to take a settlement if it is appropriate.
4. What issues will I face in making a claim for my injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident?
A claim for injuries in a pedestrian accident is usually based upon carelessness or negligence. The three categories of issues that typically arise in a claim after an pedestrian - automobile accident are:
- Liability – who is at fault and to what degree;
- Damages – what injuries or losses were caused by the car accident;
- Insurance Coverage – what will the insurance company pay.
5. How will I pay for my medical bills?
If you have been injured, you will likely have medical bills. While you are responsible for paying your own bills, regardless of the cause of your injuries, ultimately, the at-fault person's liability insurance carrier is responsible for paying you reasonable compensation for damages incurred, including medical bills. The insurance company may delay payment pending a complete settlement. At Brett Murphy, our pedestrian accident attorneys can help coordinate payment of your medical bills through your own medical insurance, any car insurance coverage you may have, and any public benefits available until such time as the insurance claim can be paid in full. Contact Brett Murphy - Washington's Injury Lawyers today to discuss your course of action.
6. How long does a personal injury claim take to resolve?
Personal injury claims can be resolved in a matter of a few weeks or months. However, depending on the complexity of the case, they make take up to several years. At Brett Murphy we strive for prompt, fair, and just settlements of all claims. An estimate of time on your specific case will require you to contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Brett Murphy.
7. My doctor notified me that I have a permanent injury as a result of my pedestrian accident. What does this mean?
A permanent injury is one that is going to be with you for the rest of your life or at least for some period beyond the claim settlement. You may be entitled to be compensated for all future medical costs which are more likely than not caused by the car accident. What costs are more likely than not caused by the accident must be established by an experienced personal injury attorney.For more information on pedestrian accidents, please see our Pedestrian Accidents page.
