Bakersfield Pedestrian Accident Attorneys

What Compensation Can I Pursue In A Pedestrian Accident Claim?

While many accident victims believe they can pursue compensation on their own, it is possible to overlook certain losses. To help you avoid the pitfalls of handling a pedestrian accident claim, you may need the help of pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield. Here are some of the damages we can pursue:

Economic Damages

These refer to the financial losses directly resulting from an accident, such as:

• Lost Wages — If your injuries caused you to miss work or reduced your ability to earn a living, you could seek compensation for the wages you’ve lost and any future earnings affected by the accident.
• Medical Costs — This includes all expenses related to medical care from the accident, such as emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments or rehabilitation.
• Property Damage — If personal items like clothing or electronics were damaged during the accident, you could seek reimbursement for their repair or replacement.
• Loss of Earning Capacity — If your injuries permanently limit your ability to work or advance in your career, you can seek compensation for the difference in earnings.
• Transportation Costs — Expenses for traveling to and from medical appointments, especially if you require specialized treatment far from home, can be included.
• Home Care and Modifications — If you need in-home care or modifications to your home, such as wheelchair ramps or other accessibility features, these costs can be included in your claim.
• Rehabilitation Services — This covers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation services necessary to treat your injuries.

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for the intangible impacts of an accident, including:

• Pain and Suffering — These damages cover physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Quality of Life — If your injuries have changed your daily life or significantly reduced your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, you can seek damages for your diminished quality of life.
• Disfigurement & Scarring — If your injuries have caused permanent physical changes or scarring, you can pursue compensation for the emotional and social impact of these changes.
• Loss of Consortium — If the accident has strained your relationship with your spouse or family members, they may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship and support.

Some accidents, especially those involving massive vehicles like trucks, can result in fatalities. The surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses and the loss of financial support through a wrongful death claim.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the responsible party’s actions were intentional or grossly negligent, the court may award punitive damages to punish them and deter similar behavior.

Our Bakersfield attorneys help victims of pedestrian accidents calculate their damages. We thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to advocate for their rights and guide them through the legal process.

Challenges When Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Pedestrian Accident

Here are some typical issues you might encounter with insurers and how our pedestrian accident lawyers in Bakersfield can help:

• Establishing Liability — Insurance companies often conduct their own investigations to validate claims. If there is insufficient evidence, they may find reasons to dispute liability. Our Bakersfield attorneys will gather evidence like police reports, accident scene photos, and witness statements to establish the driver’s responsibility.
• Inadequate Settlement Offers — Insurers may offer a settlement that fails to address your actual losses. Our team will negotiate with the insurance company, utilizing evidence that can substantiate the damages you incurred.
• Shared Fault — If multiple parties are involved, there is a possibility of shared liability. Our injury lawyers will provide evidence and advocate for a fair assessment of liability.
• Verifying Medical Claims — Insurers may question the extent of your injuries or the need for certain medical treatments. Our skilled attorneys will work with medical professionals to validate your injuries and the necessity of your treatments.
• Delay in the Claims Process — Insurance companies might take time to review and process claims, which can lead to delays and added stress. We work diligently to keep the process moving by pushing for timely responses and submitting all necessary documentation promptly.

Despite these insurance challenges, our Bakersfield pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to guiding you in your pedestrian accident case. We handle the legal aspects of your claim, from gathering crucial evidence to negotiating with insurers.