If you are a pedestrian and have sustained injuries in a road accident that involves a vehicle, you may think it’s easy to settle your case. After all, drivers have the duty to watch out for pedestrians at all times. But, even if you have been in a pedestrian accident, you don’t automatically get the settlement you deserve. Indeed, insurance carriers may deny your claim outright, stating that you caused the accident. In Oregon, your fault for the accident will be compared to the other party involved. Should your case go to trial, any compensatory damages awarded to you will be reduced by your percentage of comparative fault allocated to you. Because of this, you need to have a skilled Portland pedestrian injury lawyer on your side. Below are the reasons you must work with an attorney if you were in a pedestrian accident:
You Can’t Focus on Legal Matters Because of Your Injury
As a pedestrian involved in a road accident with a vehicle, you probably sustain a serious injury that stops you from focusing on the legal aspects of your claim. By having legal representation, you can concentrate on your recovery without worrying about legal matters.
Your Attorney Can Help Determine Fault
The insurance company of the driver who caused your accident may deny your claim, saying it was not the driver’s fault. In Oregon, if you are 50% at fault, you will lose your right to compensation. A lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accident cases can help determine fault by gathering evidence and uncovering new evidence.
They can Negotiate a Fair Settlement with the Insurance Company
The insurance company will make a lowball settlement offer and say that you won’t get anything if you don’t accept it. Your attorney will help you understand what is a fair settlement for you or negotiate on your behalf. They will consider your medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and property damage to determine the compensation amount you deserve to get. They can file a lawsuit and challenge the insurance provider when they refuse to settle.
They Will Represent You in Court
If you and the insurance company fail to reach a settlement agreement, you can take your case to court and your attorney will be your legal representative. They will help you increase your chances of getting the compensation you need and deserve. A lot of pedestrian accident cases get a good settlement when filed in court.
