Pedestrian accidents can occur suddenly and often result in stress and unanswered questions on top of physical injuries and mounting medical bills. It can be overwhelming to know what actions to take afterward. The aftermath of a pedestrian accident not only complicates your immediate circumstances but also raises ongoing concerns for your well-being and that of your family.
Victims of these accidents can benefit from understanding their potential rights to compensation under New Jersey law. At Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, our experienced pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured clients and pursuing claims against negligent drivers or other responsible parties. Reach out to learn more about what steps to take after a pedestrian accident in Bloomfield.
What to Do Following a Pedestrian Accident
The priority after a pedestrian accident in Bloomfield is to get to a safe location and contact emergency responders. Reporting the incident is essential for obtaining medical care and documenting the event. After ensuring your safety, gather contact information from any other drivers, motorists, or cyclists involved. General descriptions of the scene can also be invaluable when providing statements to the police or discussing the incident with your attorney. Relevant details to collect may include license plate numbers, conditions at the time of the accident, the presence of witnesses, and observable behaviors of those who may bear responsibility.
It is also crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a pedestrian accident. A licensed physician can diagnose and treat any injuries you may have sustained. Prompt treatment is vital for minimizing the risk of more serious injuries and establishing a baseline for your condition post-accident.
Additionally, it is vital to consult an attorney who can offer an initial evaluation of fault based on the facts presented and recommend the next steps for your case. Many pedestrian accidents result from the carelessness of other drivers, and our team can further investigate the incident by gathering evidence, such as police reports, witness testimonies, traffic camera footage, and more.
Statute of Limitations
New Jersey Statute Section 2A:14:2 imposes a two-year limit on the time an injured person has to file a lawsuit from the date of their accident. Failing to file within this statute of limitations can prevent you from recovering the compensation you are entitled to. Therefore, meeting with a lawyer as soon as possible is crucial. This will help you determine the applicable filing deadlines and begin the process of pursuing your claim.
What Compensation Can a Person Receive for their Injuries?
Another vital step to take after a Bloomfield pedestrian accident is seeking compensation for your injuries. While the insurance policies of those involved in the accident may provide some financial relief, they may not fully compensate you for your damages due to policy limits. An injured pedestrian can seek compensatory damages through a civil lawsuit filed against the negligent party, which may include:
- Past and future medical care expenses
- Lost wages and potential future earnings lost due to disability
- Noneconomic losses such as pain and suffering, disfigurement, or diminished quality of life
- Costs to repair or replace damaged property
Additionally, punitive damages may be available depending on the specifics of the accident. However, courts typically limit punitive damages to extreme cases where the liable party acted intentionally or with gross negligence. Under New Jersey law, the amount recoverable in punitive damages is capped at the greater of $350,000 or five times the amount of compensatory damages awarded.
Call a Bloomfield Pedestrian Attorney to Learn More About the Steps to Take After an Accident
At Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, we pride ourselves on providing the resources of a large firm while maintaining the attentive, personalized service typical of a smaller practice. Our experience in handling personal injury cases equips us with unique insights into our clients’ issues and how we can assist them throughout the litigation or settlement process. Learn more about what steps to take after a pedestrian accident in Bloomfield by scheduling a free consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss your situation and explore your options. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
