Dozens of pedestrians are injured or killed every day in accidents that aren’t their fault. Driver distractions, malicious behavior, and more cause severe damage to pedestrians all across Montana. From injuries to mental trauma, pedestrian accident victims often feel like they’re on their own after an accident. But that’s not the case; pedestrians can seek compensation for various damages caused by the accident.
Pedestrian Accident Damages
Damages sustained after an accident typically fall into three categories: monetary, non-monetary, and punitive. In order to prove damages, a victim must also prove that negligence was involved. These are some examples of the specific types of damage a victim can sue for after being involved in a pedestrian accident.
Medical
Medical costs are the most common type of damage in pedestrian accident cases, and it’s easy to see why. Pedestrians often trust that drivers are paying attention or following laws, so when they’re the victim of an accident, they’re typically caught off guard. There’s nothing to protect a pedestrian against a vehicle, and injuries in pedestrian accident cases are often severe. They may require multiple doctor’s visits, surgeries, or physical therapy to resolve, which can take months or even years.
Lost Wages
Because of the physical and mental trauma involved with being involved in a pedestrian accident, many victims are forced to take extensive time off work. Paid time off isn’t always an option and can run out quickly, leading to lost wages for the victim. With bills piling up and increased stress, the issue can snowball. If a pedestrian must take an extended leave or quit their job due to a car accident, they may be able to sue to recover some or all of their lost wages.
Loss of Enjoyment
Montana offers a wealth of exciting outdoor activities, but if you were injured in an accident, you may no longer be able to enjoy those activities. It’s not just outdoor fun, either; injuries and more can lead to loss of enjoyment for any type of activities a person used to take part in. Loss of enjoyment can apply to nearly any activity as long as it can be proven. A personal injury lawyer can assist you with proving that, due to your injuries, you are no longer able to take part in an activity you used to participate in and enjoy.
Punitive
Seeking punitive damages requires a victim to prove that the other party acted recklessly, egregiously, or maliciously. Say, for example, that a driver ignored a crosswalk or refused to stop at a stop sign and hit a pedestrian. In that case, a victim can hire a lawyer who understands Montana car accident laws to assist them with seeking punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to punish the party responsible for the accident and to deter them and others from doing the same.
Pedestrian Accident Lawyers in Montana
Do you need help with seeking compensation for one or more of the claims listed above? At AFJ Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges faced by victims of pedestrian accidents, and we’re here to help. We have a long history of fighting for victims to receive justice in their accident cases. Don’t settle for an insurance settlement or less than you deserve before contacting AFJ Law Firm for a free consultation.