When a pedestrian gets hit by a car, the consequences can flip your whole life upside down. In Montana, these types of accidents can be especially severe.
However, if the driver was at fault, you have the right to take legal action and pursue compensation. So, what compensation can pedestrians claim after an accident?
Let’s break down what that looks like and how Montana’s rules shape the process.
Medical Expenses (Present and Future)
Medical bills are always the biggest piece of the puzzle in a personal injury case. After a pedestrian accident in Montana, victims can pursue compensation for almost every health-related expense. This can include:
- Emergency room care
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Imaging and tests
- Physical therapy and chiropractic care
- Prescriptions
- Mobility aids
- Long-term or specialized treatments
If your injuries require ongoing care, future medical costs can also be recovered.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
If you are too injured to work, you can claim compensation for those lost earnings. That’s your base pay, along with any tips, bonuses, or overtime you missed because of the injury.
Montana also recognizes that some injuries change a person’s long-term ability to work. If your accident leaves you with lasting limitations that affect your career or earning power, you can pursue loss of future earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
This covers the physical discomfort, emotional anguish, and overall disruption to life caused by the accident. This can include everything from chronic pain to difficulty with everyday tasks.
Emotional Distress and Psychological Injuries
Pedestrian accidents are terrifying. For that reason, Montana courts understand the impact that trauma can leave on victims. Claims can seek compensation for:
- PTSD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Fear of crossing streets or being near traffic
- Therapy and counseling costs
These claims carry real weight when mental health evaluations or a treatment history support them.
Property Damage
Even on foot, you are carrying more than you realize, and those items can be damaged in a crash. You can recover compensation for:
- Broken phones
- Smartwatches
- Laptops
- Glasses
- Clothing
- Backpacks
- Medical devices
Remember, if it was damaged in the collision, you can ask for reimbursement.
Scarring, Disfigurement, and Permanent Disability
When injuries leave permanent marks or limit your mobility, Montana law allows additional compensation for the long-term impact. This can include:
- Scars
- Burns
- Nerve damage
- Cognitive or vision impairments
- Loss of limb
- Limping or mobility limitations
- Chronic pain
These types of injuries can change your confidence, career options, and independence, so they are taken seriously in the valuation of a claim.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
If your injuries keep you from enjoying the hobbies and routines that once defined your days, you can pursue compensation for that loss. This covers anything from no longer being able to join your friends on a hike to giving up a beloved weekend project around the house.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses
These are the little costs that sneak up on you but add up fast. Your Montana pedestrian accident lawyer can help you claim compensation for:
- Mileage or travel for medical appointments
- Rideshares or rental cars if you cannot drive
- Home health care
- Household help
- Childcare or pet care
- Home modifications like ramps or safety equipment
Every documented, accident-related expense counts.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a pedestrian is tragically killed, Montana law allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim. These claims may include:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses prior to death
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- The emotional suffering of close family
In Montana, these claims are usually filed by the estate’s personal representative. However, the compensation will benefit the surviving family.
Get Compensation for Your Damages in Montana
What compensation can pedestrians claim after an accident? Whether you’re dealing with massive medical bills, lost income, or the emotional shock of the crash, state law gives you the tools to claim it. If you are ready to take the next steps, AFJ Law Firm PLLC is ready to help.At AFJ Law Firm PLLC – Personal Injury, Car Accident, and Insurance Law, we are here to help you through the entire claims process, including proving fault in these accidents. Click here to visit our Montana Personal Injury Frequently Asked Questions page. Click here to visit our Commercial Trucking and Semi-Truck Accident practice area page. Contact us if you still have questions about your Montana trucking accident case.