August 15, 2013

After a Pedestrian Accident Consult with an Attorney to Seek Compensation

Los Angeles is a busy place, with both a large amount of vehicle traffic, and people walking on sidewalks. This combination can lead to a pedestrian accident where a person is hit by a moving vehicle. Under California laws, the injured person has certain legal rights they might choose to pursue in cases where the accident was not their fault. Exercising their rights is possible by consulting with, and retaining, a personal injury accident attorney.

One thing your accident attorney is able to assist with, in pedestrian cases, is to determine whom you are entitled to sue for sources of monetary compensation. To start with, the driver of the vehicle that hit you is a primary source. If they are not the owner of the vehicle, you may be able to also file against the owner. In situations where the vehicle is being used for commercial purposes, you could additionally include the employers of the driver in your case. Other potential parties might include automobile manufacturers, your own insurance company, government agencies, and automobile mechanics.

Your personal injury lawyer will help you determine the exact number of sources you are able to file against after reviewing your situation. In order to help your attorney, it is important to record the details of the accident as soon as possible, by writing these down. After traumatic events, and over time, our minds tend to forget certain facts surrounding the accident that may be important. You can also supplement your recollection of the events by obtaining police reports, witness reports, and medical reports.