Whether you are walking in an urban or suburban area, it can sometimes feel that by simply crossing the street, you are taking your life in your hands. Unfortunately, driver’s all too often will fail to yield, run red lights, operate their vehicles while intoxicated, or drive distracted looking at a cell phone or GPS.
If you or a loved one were injured while walking, you may need to consult with a George County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer. Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and psychological pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury attorney could effectively explain your legal rights and advocate on your behalf.
The type of injuries that a pedestrian could sustain vary greatly depending on the circumstances such as type of vehicle and rate of speed. Some of the most frequently seen injuries include:
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer from George County could use medical reports, history and physician’s notes to prove the extent and severity of the injured claimant’s injuries in court.
Any pedestrian injured in an accident and considering bringing a lawsuit should speak with a George County pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible. Under Mississippi Code Annotated §15-1-49, there is a three-year statute of limitations for a plaintiff to bring a personal injury claim.
A plaintiff must keep the statutory period in mind because if a lawsuit is brought after the three-year expiration date, the court will generally dismiss the entire suit. The sooner a plaintiff brings their matter to a pedestrian accident lawyer in George County, the sooner they can begin building a case.
In a typical personal injury case, the plaintiff has the legal burden of proof to prove to the court that the defendant acted in some negligent manner, which subsequently caused their injuries. In George County, a pedestrian accident lawyer will demonstrate negligence by proving the following:
A knowledgeable attorney could review the facts of the case and collect evidence to prove that the defendant’s negligent actions behind the wheel caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
The State of Mississippi abides by the pure comparative negligence rule under Miss. Code Ann. §11-7-15. Comparative negligence means that the plaintiff is partially responsible for the accident that leads to their injuries. Typically, a plaintiff’s damages award is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to them for the accident.
The injured party may be eligible to recover compensation for damages even if they are found to be more than 99 percent at fault for their accident. Claims of shared negligence can be legally complex and may best be handled by an experienced George County Pedestrian Accident Attorney.
A pedestrian must always be mindful when walking near or across a road. Despite all caution, however, pedestrians remain susceptible to the responsible driving of a truck, car, and motorcycle drivers. If you are injured in an accident, you may have significant medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and psychological trauma from the incident.
By consulting with a George County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer, you will gain a dedicated legal ally who may be able to pursue a claim on your behalf. Whether through settlement proceedings or in the courts, a seasoned attorney may be able to achieve a favorable resolution to your case. Call today to learn more about how an attorney could help your case.