When pedestrians are involved in car accidents, very often they are the ones who suffer the more serious physical injuries. In many cases, these accidents happen through no fault of their own, and a personal injury lawyer can help them get fair compensation by offering the right legal representation in court.
Whether it's just a small injury, or something as serious as wrongful death, victims have the right to seek legal services and claim damages against the responsible party. In West Des Moines, IA one of the best personal injury lawyers is Tom Fowler. This experienced attorney has won millions of dollars in compensation for hundreds of West Des Moines residents throughout his many years of experience.
If a victim has been involved in a pedestrian accident but is not sure how to seek damages against the offending driver, they should visit our Tom Fowler Law offices in Des Moines, for a free initial consultation.
Pedestrian Accidents Statistics
When stepping outside for a walk, one never knows what the day has in store for them. Unfortunately for many people, a terrible accident is what is waiting for them. Cases of pedestrian accidents in the United States are on the increase despite the best efforts to improve road safety.
Here are some shocking statistics to think about:
47% of crashes that resulted in the death of a pedestrian involved alcohol abuse
In more than 30% of crashes, the victim was found to have blood alcohol levels of at least 0.08, compared to 17% of crashes where it was the driver who was intoxicated
20% of all pedestrian deaths involve elderly people over the age of 65
Children under 15 are the most common victims of pedestrian accidents
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Personal injury lawyers have to be ready for anything when dealing with pedestrian accidents due to the many different things that can cause them to happen. In West Des Moines, IA a pedestrian accident is usually caused by one of the following:
Speeding
Distracted driving
Driving while intoxicated
Texting while driving
Reckless driving
Disobeying traffic signs and signals
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries
Some of the most catastrophic injuries that have been witnessed on American roads have been caused by pedestrian accidents involving speeding drivers, truck drivers, or intoxicated drivers. When such a terrible collision happens, it is the pedestrian who suffers the most serious injuries, such as:
Internal injuries
Traumatic brain injury
Spinal cord injuries
Pelvic injuries
Wrongful death
Bone fractures
Lacerations and bruises
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
The victim of a pedestrian accident can sometimes be quite disoriented in the moments after the crash. However, it is important to try as much as possible to remember the following steps to take after an accident to have the best chances of recovering and seeking compensation.
Alert Local Police and Paramedics
Whenever any type of accident happens, the first people to call should always be the police and the ambulance because pedestrians can find themselves fighting for their lives after such accidents. It is also better if the police arrive on the scene before any evidence or witnesses have been tampered with.
Collect Evidence
A personal injury claim will be made much stronger if it is accompanied by solid physical evidence such as photographs of the scene. Credible witness reports are also very important when determining who is at fault
Seek Medical Attention
The most important thing above all else is safeguarding the life of the victim. Medical attention needs to be sought as soon as possible to ensure that no life-threatening injuries go undetected.
A doctor's report is also very important when giving evidence of injuries sustained and when determining how much is considered fair compensation.
Keep All Records Safe
Any and all records associated with the accident need to be kept safe for use by Waukee personal injury lawyers in the impending lawsuit. Medical bills in particular need to be readily available because some of the highest costs that are incurred are medical expenses.
Find a Personal Injury Lawyer
Having a highly experienced pedestrian accident attorney in Des Moines who has a lot of knowledge about personal injury law is very important for the success of any lawsuit. Of the many law firms in Des Moines, IA, one that stands out is Tom Fowler Law firm.
With more than two decades of showcasing an aggressive representation of the legal rights of victims, we are among the best trial lawyers in Iowa.
Damages That Can Be Awarded
The following types of damages can be awarded to victims of pedestrian accidents:
Medical Bills
These are some of the most crippling expenses that the victim will have to cover because of the accident. In cases where complicated surgery or facial reconstruction is needed, the bills can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars, and it is the negligent driver who should pay.
Pain and Suffering
Iowa law recognizes the need to compensate victims for any pain and suffering they might have experienced as a result of the accident. In such cases, the doctor's report will help to determine the extent of any injuries suffered.
Loss of Income
In cases where the victim has to be hospitalized for an extended period, or in the worst-case scenario, is unable to return to work at all, then the court has to consider the loss of wages that has been caused. The value of damages can increase drastically in cases where the victim was the sole provider and head of their family.
Statute of Limitations Des Moines, IA
From the day the accident occurred, there is very little time for a successful injury claim to be made. In West Des Moines, IA the statute of limitations on personal injury cases is two years from the day of the incident or three years in the case of wrongful death. As soon as possible, the victims need to seek an experienced lawyer for a free consultation.
Other Waukee Practice Areas
Tom Fowler Law Firm Can Help
With a wide range of legal services and years of experience helping people win substantial damages in West Des Moines, IA, Tom Fowler Law Firm is the best choice for victims of personal injury. Come to our offices as soon as possible for a free initial consultation.
If the extent of injuries makes it impossible to visit our office, simply call us and we will conduct the free consultation wherever you are!