Pedestrian Accident Compensation Claim Lawyers

Your actions after a road accident will impact the legal outcome of a personal injury claim. Seeking legal advice can help you know the steps. Here are the recommended steps for injured pedestrians:

1. Seek medical attention for pedestrian injuries: Get immediate medical help for injuries after a road accident. A doctor will record your injuries to support your legal case.
2. Record the accident scene: Take videos and photos of the accident site, including any vehicle damage and your medical injuries. Also, record the accident date and time, traffic and weather conditions, names of people involved, licence plate numbers, etc.
3. Don’t admit fault: People can admit fault in many ways, including apologising for the accident. Limit conversations with other parties and keep a written record if they admit guilt or apologise.
4. Get witness statements:  Get written accounts from anyone who saw the accident. Having more than one version of events creates a more robust legal case.
5. Police Report: If the police attended the scene, please get a copy of the accident report to help identify the at-fault vehicle and negligent party.
6. Seek advice from a lawyer: A personal injury law firm provides practical legal guidance, helping you understand your rights regarding negligence claims.

1. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)  Pedestrians are often at risk of head injuries from car accidents. Some brain impacts can be minor, while others can be catastrophic or serious injuries.
2. Spinal cord injuries: Spinal damage can transform your life in seconds because your spine is the highway for signals between your brain and your body.
3. Bone fractures: Bone breaks range from hairline cracks to complete separation. Generally, you can mend broken bones. However, there can be long-term impacts and an extended recovery time.
4. Soft tissue injuries:  Bruises, cuts, tears, abrasions, dislocations and sprains (like whiplash) are all classed as soft tissue damage. Permanent tissue damage and scarring are possible outcomes.
5. Limb amputation  When the force on your body is so aggressive it severely injures a body part, recovery may not be possible, and amputation is the only option.
6. Psychological Injuries: An injured pedestrian can have both physical injuries and psychological damage. The emotional trauma can remain with you for many years. 
7. Wrongful Death: People hit by a vehicle when walking or running are particularly at risk of severe injury or death. About 14% of the road toll in Australia are pedestrian fatalities.

When a motor vehicle accident (like a hit-and-run accident) results in a fatal injury, close family members of the deceased can claim legal damages, including funeral costs and death benefits. Close family members who suffer a psychological reaction may also be eligible to make a nervous shock claim.

More about wrongful death claims >