It’s an unfortunate reality that many communities across the country are becoming less safe for pedestrians, as car-centric designs are taking over. This is no different in California. As such, pedestrians are left with shrinking options when it comes to safe paths to traverse their communities. This is also exemplified in the increasing number of pedestrian accidents occurring. As such, familiarizing yourself with the most common causes of these accidents and the importance of working with a Contra Costa personal injury lawyer to help you recover the compensation you deserve for the injuries you’ve endured.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
Unfortunately, there are two primary ways in which pedestrians can sustain injuries while traveling through their communities. The first is due to unsafe walkways and sidewalks. Many homeowners fail to understand the importance of keeping their premises safe, and as a result, hazards can accumulate. This often includes debris littering the sidewalks, unsecured cords and wires, overgrown vegetation, and even structural issues with the sidewalk itself. Sinking slabs, missing pieces, and unevenness can all lead a pedestrian to suffer a slip and fall. Though a slip and fall may not seem that dangerous, pedestrians can sustain serious injuries like broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, sprains and strains, and even spinal cord damage.
In many instances, negligent drivers can also lead to pedestrian accidents. Unfortunately, as cars become the most prominent form of transportation, drivers are increasingly less aware of pedestrians. Additionally, drivers also fail to adhere to laws, such as providing pedestrians with the right of way.
How Do I Pursue Compensation for My Injuries?
In the event you sustain injuries as a result of your accident, it’s imperative to take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
Generally, this involves seeking immediate medical attention to help ensure that the injuries you’ve sustained are treated. In addition, this ensures you can establish medical care shortly following the accident, which can help improve your chances of a favorable outcome when filing a claim.
You should also contact the police to file a report. If you are struck by a driver, this can help ensure you have the necessary information, such as when and where the accident occurred. In addition, the police will conduct a preliminary report, which can help serve as a foundation for your case. If you slip and fall, contacting the police is critical to documenting exactly when and where the injury occurred, especially if you are by yourself during the accident.
Finally, you’ll need to connect with an experienced attorney with O’Connor Law APC as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. As the victim of a negligent driver or property owner, you’ll find that pursuing a claim for the compensation you deserve can be incredibly difficult. That is why it’s in your best interest to work with an experienced attorney to assist you in these difficult matters. Contact us today to learn how we can help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
