When a pedestrian gets involved in an accident with a car or truck, the results can often be fatal. This is why drivers need to be careful at all times. If they are neglectful and cannot share the road safely, they are going to cause fatal pedestrian accidents. If your loved one was injured and passed away in such a crash, a Queens pedestrian accident attorney from our firm might be able to help you.
What Can Lead to Fatal Pedestrian Accidents?
There are plenty of things that can lead to fatal pedestrian accidents. What it often comes down to is a driver who is not paying enough attention or committed to sharing the road safely. Some potential contributors to these types of crashes include:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while distracted, like by a phone, eating, or conversation with passengers
- Reckless or aggressive driving
- Drowsy driving
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Not yielding at crosswalks
- Poor lighting
- Lack of pedestrian infrastructure, like safe sidewalks
- Bad weather conditions
Sometimes a combination of factors causes fatal pedestrian accidents. If a driver was at all negligent, they should be held accountable for the harm that they have caused.
What Kinds of Compensation Can Be Won After Fatal Pedestrian Accident?
When you sue for damages after an accident, you should not just receive compensation for the monetary costs of the crash. Fatal pedestrian accidents cause plenty of emotional pain and torment, so your settlement needs to reflect that as well. This is why you can be reimbursed for things like your loved one’s medical expenses and awarded damages for pain and suffering. Some other things that should be considered when compensation is calculated include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of consortium, guidance, or companionship
Can a Victim Be Blamed for a Fatal Accident?
Unfortunately, defendants can try to blame a victim after fatal pedestrian accidents. When successful, this argument can reduce their level of fault and how much they pay out in damages. They could accuse a pedestrian of jaywalking or being distracted by their phones while crossing. A lawyer can defend your loved one’s actions and fight for maximum compensation.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
A lawyer can do many things to help you with your personal injury case. While you focus on your family’s needs, we can handle all of the paperwork, file your case before the statute of limitations expires, and handle all negotiations and communications on your behalf. We’ll keep you updated on any progress and we’ll help you field settlement offers. If we cannot reach a settlement, we’re ready to prepare a case that can succeed in court.
Contact Our Law Firm Today
When you are ready to pursue damages in a wrongful death case, contact the Law Offices of George Poulos. We have plenty of experience helping families who have lost loved ones in accidents, and we’re ready to put our experience to work for you.
