If a negligent motorist strikes someone traveling by foot with their car, the pedestrian can suffer catastrophic, even life-threatening injuries. The injured party will likely face severe physical and emotional trauma that requires extensive and expensive treatment.
Even if you were careful while traveling on foot, the actions of another motorist are out of your control. A Normal pedestrian accident lawyer could help you if a motorist injured you while you were on a walk, jog, or run. A compassionate injury attorney could guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation for your injuries.
Recovering Compensation for Injured Walker
Under Illinois law, a plaintiff claiming personal injury cannot be more than 50 percent liable for the accident. Monetary damages will be reduced by the percentage of blame the plaintiff is assigned. A claimant can reduce their fault by making sure to:
- Look both ways before crossing a street
- Cross with the light and in a crosswalk
- Refrain from dashing into traffic from between parked cars
- Notice surroundings, including speeding motorists and heavy traffic
- Refrain from impairment by drugs or alcohol
A Normal attorney could work to investigate the facts and circumstances of an accident to maximize compensation for a pedestrian who was hit by a car. Compensation typically comes in the form of economic, non-economic, and in some cases, punitive damages.
Economic
Compensatory economic damages can be measured and include any financial losses that a plaintiff incurs due to the incident. These include the cost of medical care and continued rehabilitation. Lost wages are economic damages if the injured pedestrian is not capable of returning to work immediately or permanently lost the earning capacity.
Non-Economic
Non-economic damages are more subjective. They include such losses as pain and suffering, loss of consortium with a spouse, and mental anguish. Non-economic recovery validates a plaintiff’s claims that they have suffered beyond measurable damages.
Punitive
Punitive damages are not measurable or subjective damages that compensate a claimant. They are meant to punish a defendant for egregious behavior. For instance, if a drunk driver struck a pedestrian.
Josh and his staff are excellent to work with. Caring and compassionate, they really listen to the clients. They go above and beyond to get the best possible results. I’m very happy I was referred to him! I will definitely contact him for any future legal needs and I highly recommend him.
— Grace D., ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Google Review
Statute of Limitations in Normal
Illinois law imposes a two-year limit to file a civil claim for pedestrians involved in car crashes. Failure to file a claim before the statutory deadline expires could bar a claimant from recovery. There also may be factors that reduce the amount of time you have time file a claim. It is imperative for injured pedestrians to seek the help of an experienced attorney in Normal to ensure all paperwork is filed within the legal time limit.
Consult a Normal Pedestrian Accident Lawyer for Assistance
A knowledgeable Normal pedestrian accident lawyer is aware that insurance companies hope to settle your claim with the smallest payout possible. You may be accused of contributing to the accident, which could reduce the amount you receive for your injuries if the courts agree.
A skilled attorney could review police reports and medical records, speak with witnesses, and employ experts to build your case. Additionally, a lawyer could advise you on whether you should settle or proceed to trial. Schedule a complimentary consultation with an attorney who could help you determine the best course of action for you.