Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you’re injured as a pedestrian in Philadelphia, follow these steps to protect your rights and ensure you receive the necessary compensation:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care: Get medical treatment as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately visible, and prompt medical evaluation is crucial for your health and for documenting your injuries.
2. Report the Accident: If the accident involves a motor vehicle, file a report with the Philadelphia Police Department. The report will document the details of the accident and can be essential for your claim.
3. Collect Evidence: Document the scene of the accident, including the location, damage to vehicles (if applicable), and any visible injuries. Take photos if possible, and gather contact information from witnesses.
4. Identify Responsible Parties: Determine who is responsible for the accident. This could be a driver, a property owner, or another party. Understanding who is at fault will help in pursuing a claim.
5. Notify Your Insurance: If you have insurance coverage that may apply (such as health insurance or uninsured motorist coverage), notify your insurance provider of the accident and your injuries.
6. Consult with an Attorney: Speak with a personal injury attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents. They can help you understand your rights, assess your case, and guide you through the legal process.
7. Keep Detailed Records: Document all medical treatments, costs, and any impact the injuries have on your daily life. This will support your claim for damages and compensation.
8. Avoid Social Media: Refrain from discussing the accident or your injuries on social media, as this information could be used against you in legal proceedings.

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• Statute of Limitations: In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of the deceased’s death. This is outlined in the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act.
• Exceptions: There are some exceptions that may extend or shorten this period, such as if the responsible party was a government entity, in which case shorter deadlines might apply.
• Importance of Timeliness: It is crucial to file your claim within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation. Delays can result in the loss of evidence and weaken your case.
• Consult an Attorney: A wrongful death attorney can provide guidance on the specific deadlines applicable to your case and help ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken in a timely manner.

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• Injury or Harm: You must have suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm due to another party's negligence or intentional misconduct. Common injuries include broken bones, head injuries, or emotional distress.
• Negligence: Determine if another party’s negligence caused your injury. Negligence involves a failure to exercise reasonable care, such as a driver running a red light or a property owner failing to maintain safe conditions.
• Causation: Establish a direct link between the negligent behavior and your injury. This means proving that the harm you suffered was a direct result of the other party’s actions.
• Damages: Evaluate the damages you have incurred, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You need to quantify these damages to pursue compensation effectively.
• Consult an Attorney: Personal injury lawyers offer free consultations to assess the viability of your case. They can help determine if you have a valid claim based on the specifics of your situation.

Contact your Philadelphia personal injury attorney, John D. Pallante today!