What Type of Compensation Am I Entitled to in a Pedestrian Accident?

 Posted on November 20, 2020 in Pedestrian Accidents

Motor vehicles are expected to share the roads with pedestrians and cyclists and always look out for their safety. Unfortunately, not all motorists take this important responsibility seriously. Distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, failure to follow traffic signals, and other forms of negligent driving put pedestrians’ lives in danger. If you or a loved one were involved in a pedestrian accident, you may be interested in exploring your legal options. A personal injury claim may be one way to recover compensation for the damages caused by the collision.

Catastrophic Injuries May Result from Car Accidents Involving Pedestrians
When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the results can be catastrophic. Even if the collision occurs at a lower speed, the force of the vehicle striking the pedestrian can cause broken bones, spine injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), internal organ damage, and more. Sometimes, the victim’s injuries are so severe that doctors are forced to amputate one of the victim’s limbs. Many pedestrian accident victims face paralysis or other disabilities for the rest of their lives.

Types of Damages You May Recover
Insurance adjusters often undervalue the extent of an injured person’s damages after a car accident and fail to take into account the effect the victim’s injuries have on his or her life. Your injuries may prevent you from being able to work for weeks, months, or even years after your accident. You may be unable to do everyday household chores, take care of your children, or even enjoy life as you once did. Through a personal injury claim, you may be able to recover compensation for both the economic and non-economic costs caused by your injuries. You may be entitled to compensation for your:

• Medical expenses including emergency room treatment, hospital care, diagnostic tests, surgery, and your ongoing medical needs such as physical therapy, mental health counseling, and prescription medication
• Lost wages from missed work
• Lost employment benefits
• Reduced earning potential caused by your disability
• Home modifications necessary to accommodate your disability
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

Some car accident victims are also entitled to punitive damages. Unlike the compensatory damages listed above, punitive damages do not compensate the victim for his or her costs. They are instead designed to punish the defendant for actions that were intentionally harmful or grossly negligent. Punitive damages are often available in pedestrian accidents involving hit-and-run or DUI.

Contact a Peoria Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Being involved in a pedestrian-vehicle collision can cause life-altering injuries. If you or a loved one were hurt in a pedestrian accident, speak with an experienced Bloomington personal injury attorney from the skilled law firm of Kanoski Bresney. You may be entitled to compensation if the accident was caused by a negligent driver. Call us today at 888-826-8682 to schedule a free case consultation.

Source:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/073500050K2-1115.05.htm