Pedestrian accidents in Cortlandt can cause severe injuries that can be devastating. Even at slow speeds, a vehicle can have a significant impact on a pedestrian who lacks any form of protection.
If a driver’s negligence causes an accident involving a pedestrian, they can be held responsible for the damages resulting from the incident. These types of accidents can happen just about anywhere, but they often occur at places where pedestrians are reliant on drivers, such as intersections and parking lots. If the driver leaves the scene of the accident, or if there are multiple parties responsible for the pedestrian’s injuries, the lawsuit can become complex. Our team can help you investigate your case and gather the evidence needed to support your claim.
For a free assessment of your case, contact our pedestrian accident attorneys at The Martello Law Firm, PLLC today at (914) 685-6950.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Cortlandt, NY
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident, obtaining compensation for your injuries can be difficult. However, there are several actions you can take to increase your chances of receiving justice. Our pedestrian accident lawyers can assist you in pursuing your case and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. It is crucial to contact the police and seek medical attention immediately following the accident. If possible, you should also gather evidence while still at the scene of the incident.
Call 911
In the event of a pedestrian accident in Cortlandt, your first step should be to contact the police. Even if the other driver has already stopped to assist you, it is important to ensure that the authorities investigate the incident and create an official report. The police will document any pertinent details and issue a citation if the driver is found to be at fault. This report can be a valuable resource and might help identify witnesses who can provide additional evidence. Be sure to provide the police with all the information you have regarding the accident.
Obtain the Driver’s Information
It is also important to gather the driver’s information, including their name, address, phone number, and insurance details, if possible. It is also helpful to take photos of their car and license plate using your phone, which can serve as evidence later on. However, if the driver refuses to provide the information or becomes hostile, do not confront them. Instead, contact the police, who will obtain the necessary details and include them in their report. Once the report is available, our team can assist you in obtaining a copy.
If you happen to be the victim of a hit-and-run accident, obtaining the other driver’s information might not be possible. It is possible that a driver might become overwhelmed with panic after hitting a pedestrian and leave the scene, or they might not want to take responsibility for their actions. In some situations, drivers might already be in trouble with the law and cannot risk being pulled over by the police. Despite the challenges of identifying a hit-and-run driver, we can collaborate with law enforcement to investigate your case and ensure that justice is served for your injuries. Even if you only have information about the make and model of the vehicle that struck you, it can still be a valuable clue in tracking down the driver.
Gather Evidence
When involved in an accident, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene. Physical evidence might not be available later for use in court, but photos can be used as evidence. Take pictures of any damage to the vehicles involved or any property that was affected. Additionally, if there are any skid marks or debris on the pavement, be sure to capture those in photos as well. This will greatly support your case if other evidence is lacking.
It is also a good idea to take note of your surroundings, if possible. Any nearby businesses or residences might have security cameras that captured footage of the accident. If you act quickly and contact the owner, you might be able to obtain a copy of the footage before it is erased.
Get Medical Care
It is important to seek medical attention right away if you are involved in a pedestrian accident. Even if you do not feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it is better to err on the side of caution. Injuries can show up hours or even days later, so it is best to get checked out as soon as possible. Your medical records will document the extent of your injuries, necessary future treatment, and the cause of your injuries. This information will be helpful later on to demonstrate the impact of your injuries and the financial losses you have incurred as a result of the accident.
Speak to Our Attorneys
If you have suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness while walking around Cortlandt, you have the right to file a lawsuit against them to seek compensation for all the damages and losses you have incurred. These damages typically include lost wages, medical bills, and future earning potential if your injuries prevent you from working. Our firm can support you throughout this process by negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf and filing a lawsuit if required.
Typical Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Cortlandt, NY
In Cortlandt, pedestrian accidents can occur due to various reasons. Such accidents can result in significant damages, but our pedestrian accident attorneys are here to assist you in recovering compensation. The legal approach taken in your case will depend on the cause of your injuries. Here are some of the most frequent reasons behind pedestrian accidents in Cortlandt:
Speeding
Pedestrian accidents in Cortlandt are often caused by speeding drivers who are unable to see pedestrians in time to avoid hitting them. Unfortunately, in many cases, the driver’s vehicle is traveling too fast to stop safely, putting pedestrians at a high risk of severe injury or fatality.
Distracted Driving
Driving while distracted is extremely hazardous since a mere second of looking away from the road can cause an accident. Moreover, this is against the law in Cortlandt. One major issue is texting while driving, which has become a prevalent problem. If a driver injures a pedestrian while using their phone, our team of pedestrian accident lawyers can assist you in filing a lawsuit to recover damages. It is the responsibility of all drivers to drive attentively and avoid distractions while operating a vehicle.
Disobeying Traffic Signals
Pedestrian accidents occur frequently due to drivers who ignore traffic signals or fail to yield at stop signs and crossings. It is crucial for drivers to halt at traffic lights and adhere to other signs that indicate when they should give way to pedestrians. Pedestrians are at a higher risk of danger when they walk at night in low visibility or areas without streetlights. To safeguard themselves from harm caused by careless drivers, pedestrians must obey traffic signals and remain alert to their surroundings.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Pedestrian accidents in Cortlandt and throughout New York are often caused by driving under the influence (DUI). Impaired judgment and slowed reaction time while driving due to alcohol consumption can lead to deadly accidents. Unfortunately, intoxicated drivers might not even react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian, making DUI a serious concern.
Our Cortlandt, NY Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Can Help
Our pedestrian accident lawyers can provide you with a free case evaluation by calling The Martello Law Firm, PLLC at (914) 685-6950.
