The Importance of Seeking Legal Help After a Pedestrian Accident
Every year, thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed in car accidents. While drivers have a responsibility to be aware of pedestrians and take precautions to avoid accidents, accidents still happen. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident due to the negligence of a driver, it is important to seek legal help to get the compensation you deserve.
Glendale, California, is no stranger to pedestrian accidents. In fact, it has been reported that in just one year, there were 106 pedestrian accidents in the city. If you or a loved one was involved in a pedestrian accident in Glendale, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the legal process.
The Role of a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
A pedestrian accident lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in handling cases related to pedestrian accidents. They can help you seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
One of the main roles of a pedestrian accident lawyer is to investigate the accident to determine liability. They will gather evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and video footage to build a strong case on your behalf. They will also negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Advantages
Advantages of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer |
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1. Legal Expertise |
2. Understanding of Your Legal Rights |
3. Negotiation Skills |
4. Investigation of Accident |
5. Higher Chance of Compensation |
1. Legal Expertise: Pedestrian accident lawyers have the legal expertise necessary to handle your case. They have a deep understanding of the laws related to personal injury and can navigate the legal system on your behalf.
2. Understanding of Your Legal Rights: A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and ensure that they are protected throughout the legal process. They can advise you on what steps to take and what to avoid when dealing with insurance companies and other parties.
3. Negotiation Skills: A pedestrian accident lawyer is skilled in negotiation and can help you get a fair settlement for your injuries and damages. They will work hard to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and fight for your rights.
4. Investigation of Accident: A pedestrian accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident to determine liability and build a strong case on your behalf. They will gather evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and video footage to support your claim.
5. Higher Chance of Compensation: With a pedestrian accident lawyer on your side, you have a higher chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. They will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Disadvantages
Disadvantages of Hiring a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer |
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1. Cost |
2. Time |
3. Stress |
1. Cost: Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer can be expensive. Most lawyers charge a contingency fee, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. However, the percentage they take can be high, and you may end up with less compensation than you expected.
2. Time: The legal process can be time-consuming, and it may take months or even years to reach a settlement. This can be frustrating and stressful, especially if you are dealing with injuries and medical bills.
3. Stress: Dealing with a pedestrian accident can be stressful, and hiring a lawyer can add to the stress. You may have to attend meetings, hearings, and other legal proceedings, which can be overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer in Glendale?
The cost of hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer in Glendale varies depending on the lawyer and the complexity of your case. Most lawyers charge a contingency fee, which means that they only get paid if you win your case. The percentage they take can range from 25% to 40% of your settlement.
2. What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident in Glendale?
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident in Glendale, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. After that, you should contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
3. How long do I have to file a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Glendale?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. If you do not file a lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
4. What damages can I recover in a pedestrian accident lawsuit in Glendale?
You may be able to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injuries.
5. Do I have to go to court if I hire a pedestrian accident lawyer?
Not necessarily. Many pedestrian accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if your case does go to court, your lawyer will represent you and fight for your rights.
6. How long does it take to settle a pedestrian accident case?
The time it takes to settle a pedestrian accident case varies depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. It can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to reach a settlement.
7. What should I look for when hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer?
When hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer, you should look for someone with experience in handling pedestrian accident cases, a good track record of success, and excellent communication skills. You should also look for someone who is compassionate and understands what you are going through.
8. Can I still pursue a pedestrian accident lawsuit if the driver was not charged with a crime?
Yes, you can still pursue a pedestrian accident lawsuit even if the driver was not charged with a crime. The criminal justice system and the civil justice system are separate, and you can still seek compensation for your injuries and damages through a civil lawsuit.
9. Should I accept the insurance company’s offer without consulting a lawyer?
No, you should not accept the insurance company’s offer without consulting a lawyer. Insurance companies often offer low settlements to save money, and they may not have your best interests in mind. A lawyer can review the offer and advise you on whether it is fair.
10. Will my pedestrian accident lawsuit go to trial?
It is possible that your pedestrian accident lawsuit will go to trial, but it is more likely that it will be settled out of court. Most personal injury cases are settled through negotiations with insurance companies.
11. Can I still file a pedestrian accident lawsuit if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, you can still file a pedestrian accident lawsuit if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of fault.
12. What should I do if the driver’s insurance company denies my claim?
If the driver’s insurance company denies your claim, you may need to file a lawsuit to seek compensation. A pedestrian accident lawyer can advise you on your legal options and represent you in court if necessary.
13. How long will it take to receive compensation for my pedestrian accident injuries?
The time it takes to receive compensation for your pedestrian accident injuries varies depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. It can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to receive compensation.
Conclusion
If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Glendale, it is important to seek legal help to get the compensation you deserve. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options, investigate the accident, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. While hiring a lawyer can be expensive and time-consuming, it can also increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Don’t wait to take legal action. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer today to discuss your case and protect your legal rights.
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Glendale, you should seek legal help from a qualified pedestrian accident lawyer. The information in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication, but laws and regulations may change over time. Consult with a lawyer for the most up-to-date information on pedestrian accident lawsuits in Glendale.