PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT LAW IN MONTANA
Accidents which involve pedestrians are widespread, across the United States, and especially in busy cities. In the country alone, one pedestrian is killed every two hours, while one is injured every eight minutes by a vehicle according to NHTSA. While walking is considered a healthy—and cheap—mode of transportation, there are inherent dangers that lies ahead.
As downtown areas becomes more congested and chaotic, and as more and more pedestrians wear headphones while walking, the likelihood of a pedestrian/vehicle accident increase exponentially. Add to this mix the fact that almost everyone is in a hurry, and a significant number of drivers are distracted by one thing or another. Since a pedestrian has absolutely no protection, injuries to pedestrians hit by a vehicle are generally quite severe.
While most all of us were taught to look both ways before crossing the street, it could be wise to be extra careful in downtown Billings. In a recent study from GHSA in 2017, 14 pedestrian fatalities have been recorded, and a total of 205 were involved in crashes. Pedestrian versus vehicle collisions are not as uncommon as you might think. According to a data from Billings PD, there are 30 pedestrian vs vehicle accidents that had happened during the first half of 2012. Part of the reason for this lies in the fact that drivers still text and drive or talk on their cell phones while driving, which can prevent the driver from seeing a person crossing the street.
As this clearly shows pedestrian accidents becoming a serious problem in Billings, what should you do when this happen to you?
Who Is at fault when you get involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
Most of the time, the driver is responsible for the pedestrian accident. Whether through negligence, or because he or she simply failed to see the pedestrian. In some cases, though, the pedestrian may be at fault. They ignore a “don’t walk” signal, or otherwise fail to exercise due caution prior to turning, or entering a roadway. Driver errors which occur on the driver’s side include the following:
- Distracted drivers
- Fatigued drivers
- Impaired drivers
- Reckless drivers
- Drivers who disregard crosswalks and traffic controls
- Drivers who pass a stopped school bus
- Speeding Drivers
What should you do after getting into a pedestrian accident in Billings?
Your health is the most important issue. It is a good idea to go to the ER immediately, even if you think you are okay. Many times, adrenaline floods the body at the time of an accident. This adrenaline can mask pain, making you think you are okay, only to find out later you are not. You could realize days, weeks, or even months later that you were injured. Therefore if you see a doctor immediately, your chances of recouping those financial losses greatly improve.
If you are physically able, take photographs at the scene of the accident. As soon as you are home, write down every detail about the accident you can remember. If there were witnesses to the accident, take down their names and numbers. Do this so your attorney will be able to find them later. Make sure you keep every single receipt related to your accident. Whether you are paying for prescription pain medications, gas to get to the doctor, or hospital bills, keep all your receipts together in one place.
The sooner you have an experienced Billings pedestrian accident lawyer following your accident the more likely you are to have a positive outcome as far as receiving compensation for your injuries. To qualify for this compensation, it is important that you contact the police immediately after your accident if able to.
How can a pedestrian accident attorney help in my case?
If you were walking and were hit by an automobile driver in Billings, it could be extremely beneficial for you to contact a Billings pedestrian accident attorney. The serious injuries you received can lead to a lot of inconveniences not only to your health but to your overall well being which can include emotional distress, severe stress, depression and anxiety. These issues may factor into the compensation you are owed as a result of the negligence of the driver who hit you. In addition, you may experience long-term effects from your injuries that could result in disability in the future. Your pedestrian accident attorney can ensure that you receive all of the money you need. Not only recover from your injuries, but safeguard against future complications.
It is our core here in Joe Frick Law PLLC to stand and provide justice to victims of pedestrian accidents in Billings. Our resident attorney ensure you to properly protect your rights and your future, while fighting aggressively for just compensation. Call us today for a free initial consultation and review of your case!