When a motor vehicle collides with someone traveling on foot, the injuries are often catastrophic. Even when vehicles travel at low speeds, pedestrians can sustain life-altering damages that lead to long-term or permanent disabilities.
Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and reasonably. Therefore, when a negligent driver breaches this duty and hits you with their car, you have a right to pursue legal action against them. An Auburn pedestrian accident lawyer can take the lead with this process and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact Gideon Asen, LLC today to discuss your claim with a seasoned personal injury attorney.
The Common Injuries After a Pedestrian Accident
After an accident with a motor vehicle, the pedestrian may suffer a vast range of physical and psychological damages. Some of the most common pedestrian and vehicle accident injuries include:
- Severe spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic head and brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures or traumatic amputations
- Emotional anguish and physical pain, and suffering
The above is not a complete list of injuries a pedestrian could suffer after an accident with a motor vehicle. When someone is hurt in Bangor because of a careless driver, they should discuss their legal options with a knowledgeable pedestrian accident attorney.
Recovering Financial Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident
After a collision with a vehicle, pedestrians may be eligible for financial recovery through a civil lawsuit. After the plaintiff, with the help of a skilled legal professional, establishes to the court the motorist was negligent, the court could award compensation for damages, including:
- Payment for current and future medical bills and expenses
- Money to cover the missing time from work and future earning potential
- Compensation to cover non-monetary losses such as pain and suffering
A hard-working Bangor pedestrian accident attorney can help collect evidence and build a solid claim for damages. The court will determine award amounts depending on the details of the accident and the extent of the injuries.
The Right-of-Way for Pedestrians
The state safety regulations instruct motorists on how to proceed when there are no traffic signals or signs. As per the Secretary of State Bureau of Motor Vehicles Motorist Handbook Part IV and Maine Revised Statutes Title 29-A, Chapter 19 § 2053, strict regulations are in place concerning the driver’s responsibilities and the right-of-way of pedestrians.
Motorists must adhere to and yield the right-of-way when pedestrians are present in various circumstances. For example, drivers of vehicles must always come to a complete stop when there are people in crosswalks, when people are crossing over a sidewalk, making a right turn, or when school children are crossing the street.
Motorists must also never pass another vehicle stopped for pedestrians. Failing to adhere to the state’s safety rules and regulations can mean criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and a criminal conviction on their permanent record. They also face paying damages through civil lawsuits. A pedestrian accident lawyer in Bangor can investigate and review the case details to determine liability and the reason for the damages.
Call a Seasoned Bangor Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Walking is an excellent form of transportation for physical fitness, environmental, and monetary purposes. Yet, when careless motorists fail to follow safety rules and regulations, pedestrians can sustain severe, life-altering, or even fatal injuries.
Contact an experienced Bangor pedestrian accident lawyer when you need help after an accident. The diligent attorneys of Gideon Asen, LLC can get to work on your case today. Call now to get started.
