If a driver decides to run a red light, speed through a busy intersection, or otherwise, a pedestrian may be wrongfully injured. Unfortunately, these injuries may become life-altering, life-threatening, or life-ending for the pedestrian. Follow along to find out what to do if a pedestrian accident turns fatal and how a proficient Landover auto accident lawyer at the Law Office of Conrad W. Judy III, LLC can best advise you.
What should I do if I am involved in a pedestrian accident?
Understandably, you may be completely overwhelmed in the aftermath of your pedestrian accident. What’s worse, you may be blindly distracted by the physical pain your body has just incurred. But it is still important to remain present at the scene, both physically and mentally. This is so you may set yourself up accordingly for your potential, future personal injury claim. This may involve taking photos and videos of your bodily injuries, property damages, and the overall scene of the accident. Later on, you may want to obtain a copy of the intersection camera footage at the scene, or even surveillance camera footage from properties neighboring the scene. In addition, you must call a law enforcement officer and speak with them once they arrive at the scene. At this time, you must not accidentally admit fault to them. Instead, only recount the events that led up to your unfortunate collision. Of note, an officer may call for emergency medical technicians and paramedics to respond to the scene. With this, it is important to submit to their medical attention and allow them to transport you to the emergency room for further testing. Hopefully, with the right treatment, your injuries may not become fatal.
What should I do if a pedestrian accident turns fatal?
Sadly, pedestrian accidents can turn fatal rather easily, as pedestrians possess little to no protection in the event of a collision. You may know a loved one who has fallen victim to a fatal pedestrian accident. So if this is your case, then you must file a wrongful death claim instead of a personal injury claim. First things first, you must confirm you are eligible to bring this claim type forward on behalf of your loved one. That is, in the state of Maryland, you must be the spouse, child, or parent of the pedestrian accident victim. Otherwise, a relative by blood or marriage who was dependent on the pedestrian accident victim. Then, you must ensure you disclose all the economic and non-economic damages you have incurred or anticipate incurring due to your loved one’s untimely death. This may include the cost of your loved one’s funeral bills and burial expenses, the loss of your loved one’s companionship and consortium, and more. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact a talented Landover Maryland personal injury lawyer. Schedule your initial consultation with the Law Office of Conrad W. Judy III, LLC today.