Pedestrian accidents can occur unexpectedly and can often result in severe, life-altering injuries. You could be enjoying some fresh air on your lunch break or running errands when a distracted driver runs into you, leaving you with broken bones or, even worse, a traumatic brain injury.
To make matters even more difficult, insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements and even trying to dodge liability altogether.
At Carr and Carr, we provide robust, compassionate, and tailored legal services to those injured in Oklahoma City pedestrian accidents. With an extensive understanding of pedestrian laws, traffic regulations, and the complexities of these cases, we bring a wealth of experience to help secure the justice and fair compensation you deserve.
Why Hire Carr and Carr for Your Pedestrian Accident Claim?
- Decades of Legal Expertise: As a personal injury law firm, Carr and Carr has been serving Oklahoma City and beyond for more than 50 years. Our legal team is proficient in handling a diverse range of pedestrian accident cases, leveraging our in-depth knowledge and experience to provide you with the best legal representation.
- Strong Track Record: We pride ourselves on a consistent record of successful outcomes. Our adeptness in negotiating with insurance companies and litigating in court has led to substantial settlements for our clients.
- Client-Centric Approach: At Carr and Carr, we prioritize our client’s needs. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial burden of pedestrian accidents and work tirelessly to alleviate this stress. We provide personalized attention by keeping you updated and ensuring your questions are answered and your concerns addressed.
- No Fees Unless We Win: Our OKC pedestrian accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay us nothing unless we win your case. Let us focus on securing maximum compensation for your case while you concentrate on recovery.
Elements of a Pedestrian Accident Claim
Oklahoma pedestrian accident cases are typically assessed based on the following factors:
- Negligence: Did another party act negligently or recklessly, resulting in your accident? Negligence could include actions like driver inattention, distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, or driving under the influence.
- Injuries: In order to have a pedestrian accident claim, you must have sustained an injury. These injuries should be directly related to the accident and can range from minor to severe, such as fractures, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, etc.
- Damages: If you’ve incurred costs due to the accident (medical expenses, loss of income, etc.), you may have a case. These costs can be recovered in a personal injury lawsuit. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress, can also be claimed.
It’s essential to note that every case is different. It is therefore recommended that you speak with an OKC pedestrian accident lawyer who can evaluate your case and advise whether you can take legal action.
Compensation for Injured Pedestrians
There are several types of financial compensation you may be able to claim as an injured pedestrian. They typically fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are quantifiable losses that you’ve suffered as a result of the accident. They include:
- Medical Bills: This can cover costs from emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and any future medical care you might require related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If you’re unable to work due to severe injuries, you may be compensated for lost income during your recovery period.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injuries are extensive enough to limit your ability to work in the future, you might be compensated for future lost wages.
- Property Damage: If you had any property that was damaged during the accident, such as a cell phone or bicycle, you might be reimbursed for its value.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages, which are less tangible and more subjective, include:
- Pain and Suffering: This can encompass physical pain, mental anguish, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by the accident and your subsequent injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have negatively affected your relationship with your spouse, you could be entitled to these damages.
- Emotional Distress: This includes compensation for any psychological impact from the accident, like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
The specific compensation you’re entitled to can depend on the circumstances of the accident, the severity of your injuries, and other factors. It’s crucial to consult with an Oklahoma City pedestrian accident attorney who can evaluate your case and guide you through the process.
Who Pays Your Bills in an Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Claim?
In Oklahoma City, determining liability for a pedestrian accident can be complicated, as multiple parties can be at fault. They include:
- Motorists: The at-fault driver may be held liable if they were acting negligently or recklessly. This could include behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield to pedestrians, or driving under the influence.
- Local Government: In cases where the accident was caused or exacerbated by poor road conditions, such as improper signage, faulty traffic signals, or lack of crosswalks, the city or county responsible for maintaining those roads could potentially be held liable.
- Commercial Vehicle Owners and Operators: If a commercial vehicle was involved in an auto accident, the company that owns and operates the vehicle might be held liable, especially if the driver was acting in the course of their employment.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a defect in the vehicle, like faulty brakes, contributed to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer could potentially be held liable.
A pedestrian accident claim often requires a detailed investigation and the expertise of an experienced personal injury lawyer. If you’ve been seriously injured in Oklahoma City, call Carr and Carr for legal advice and representation.
FAQS
What Should I Do If I’m Injured as a Pedestrian?
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, but taking the following steps can protect your well-being and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Immediately seek medical help, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal injuries, might not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to Oklahoma City Police Department. They’ll file a police report that will be crucial evidence in your legal claim.
- Collect Information: If you’re able, collect the at-fault driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details. Also, note the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. These images can serve as valuable evidence.
- Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information, as their testimony could be vital to your claim.
- Keep Records: Keep all medical records, receipts for expenses related to the accident, and a record of any time missed from work. This information makes it easier to calculate damages.
- Don’t Discuss the Accident: Refrain from discussing the accident with anyone other than your attorney. You’ll want to especially avoid the negligent driver’s insurance company, as anything you say could potentially be used against you.
- Hire a Pedestrian Accident Attorney: As soon as possible, consult with an experienced OKC pedestrian accident lawyer. They can help you prepare your claim, deal with insurers on your behalf, and work towards securing the compensation you are entitled to.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Pedestrian Accident Claim?
Although not a legal requirement, it’s highly recommended that you hire a lawyer for your OKC pedestrian accident claim. Here’s why:
- Legal Expertise: Pedestrian accident claims can be difficult, involving multiple parties, insurance companies, and potentially even court proceedings. An experienced lawyer can navigate these challenges on your behalf, ensuring that all necessary procedures are correctly followed.
- Claim Evaluation: A personal injury attorney can accurately evaluate your claim, taking into account all potential damages – both immediate and future – to ensure you seek the full compensation you’re entitled to.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts for motor vehicle accidents. Having a lawyer on your side can help counteract this tactic and secure a favorable settlement.
- Legal Representation: If your case goes to court, you’ll need a lawyer to represent you. They’ll prepare and present your case, aiming to convince the judge or jury of the validity of your claim and the extent of your damages.
- Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, having a lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery, safe in the knowledge that a professional is working diligently to secure your rightful compensation.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
It’s possible but not likely, as the majority of personal injury cases are settled outside of court. This is often achieved through negotiations between your attorney and the insurance company of the party at fault. However, if a fair settlement can’t be reached, it may be necessary to go to court.
Going to court can be advantageous in situations where the insurance company is not offering a fair settlement or disputes the facts of the claim. A court case allows your attorney to present your claim in full, including all evidence and expert witness testimonies, to a judge or jury who will then determine the outcome.
Regardless, having an experienced attorney is crucial in both scenarios. They can handle negotiations with insurance companies, prepare your case thoroughly in the event it does go to court, and ensure your rights are protected. That way, you have the best chance of securing the compensation you deserve.
Get a Free Consultation From an Oklahoma City Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Accidents involving pedestrians are often catastrophic because they lack the protective barriers that vehicle occupants have. The force of a collision, even at relatively low speeds, can lead to serious injuries or fatalities given the size and weight disparity between a vehicle and a person.
At Carr and Carr, we are deeply committed to advocating for pedestrians injured by someone else’s negligence. With our expertise, professionalism, and client-centric approach, we’re here to support and guide you through each step of the legal process. Facing the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. To learn more, schedule a free consultation by calling 866-510-0580 or contacting us online.
