If you are a pedestrian, you know to look both ways before crossing the street. If you are a driver, you know to keep an eye out for pedestrians and obey the rules of the road. Regardless, pedestrian accidents still occur. These accidents can be extremely dangerous and cause a great amount of damage. As a result, it is important to know how to avoid these incidents and what to do in the event that a pedestrian accident does occur. Read on to learn more about pedestrian accidents in New Jersey.
What are the Most Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents?
For the most part, pedestrian accidents are a result of driver negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- A driver’s failure to yield
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding
- Driving recklessly
- Low visibility
- Hazardous weather conditions
What Should I do if I am Injured?
If you are injured by a car in New Jersey, you may be entitled to recover compensation. The first thing you should do after an accident is call 911. The police can call you an ambulance, file a report, take witness statements, and conduct chemical tests. Additionally, you should gather proof of negligence. This can include taking pictures and videos at the scene as well as collecting the contact information of anyone who saw the accident occur. You should go to the hospital to ensure that your injuries are tended to. At the hospital, make sure to ask your doctor for a copy of your medical documents. Lastly, you will want to retain the help of a skilled personal injury attorney. A skilled personal injury attorney may be able to gather further evidence such as security camera footage and police reports.
How Long do I Have to File a Claim?
If you wish to pursue legal action, you will have to make sure to file your claim in time. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a personal injury accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you fail to file within two years, you will likely lose your opportunity to recover compensation. You should contact a personal injury attorney to ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact our firm to speak with a dedicated attorney.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Currently, it is unclear whether employees will have the right to file COVID-19 workers’ compensation claims, however, if the time comes where this becomes legislation, our firm is here to help. As we learn more, we will bring this information to you. Contact Rubenstein, Berliner & Shinrod today to learn more.
