Were you hit as a pedestrian and suffered injury? This could have serious consequences for your health, your daily life, and your finances. Fortunately, you are entitled to compensation. In this article, we explain what you can do to recover your personal injury and what steps you need to take to receive maximum compensation.
Your rights as a pedestrian
In traffic, pedestrians are considered by law as weak road users. This means that as a pedestrian, you are extra protected when hit by a motor vehicle, such as a car. Even if you as a pedestrian are partially to blame for the accident, the liable party will still have to compensate at least 50% of the damage. This is regulated by article 185 of the Road Traffic Act.
Compensation after a collision on the zebra crossing
Pedestrians are often hit when crossing a zebra crossing. Motorists do not always stop to give way, which can lead to serious accidents. When you are hit on a zebra crossing, the driver is in almost all cases completely liable for your personal injury. This means that you are entitled to 100% compensation, including medical costs, loss of income and compensation for suffering.
What to do after a collision as a pedestrian?
If you have been hit as a pedestrian, it is important to take action quickly to claim your personal injury. Follow these steps to ensure your rights are protected:
- Gather evidence: take note of the driver’s details and any eyewitnesses. Take photos of the location and your injury.
- See a doctor: you should always have your injuries medically documented, even if you think the injury is minor.
- Report the incident: report the accident to the police so an official report can be made.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer: engage a specialist personal injury lawyer as quickly as possible to compose your damage claim and to confront the liable party.
Compensation for your personal injury
As a pedestrian, you are entitled to comprehensive compensation. This includes all costs you incur as a result of the accident, such as:
- Medical costs: costs for hospital visits, treatments, and medication.
- Loss of income: if you are unable to work due to the accident, you can claim compensation for loss of income.
- Compensation for suffering: a compensation for your physical and emotional suffering, such as pain, fear or psychological complaints.
- Travel costs: costs for transport to doctors and other medical appointments.
- Household help: compensation for household assistance if you are unable to perform your normal tasks due to your injury.
What if the pedestrian is partly to blame?
Even if you as a pedestrian make a mistake, such as crossing without right of way or by red light, you are still entitled to compensation. The motorist will usually have to pay at least 50% of your damage, unless there is force major, which in practice is almost never accepted. This means that even with your own fault you are entitled to a significant compensation.
Pedestrian hit by a scooter or cyclist
When as a pedestrian you are hit by a scooter or cyclist, similar rules apply. Scooters and mopeds often drive hard and can cause serious injury in a collision. In most cases, you can claim compensation of 50% to 100% of your damage, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Legal assistance with personal injury
Recovering personal injury can be a complex process, especially when there are legal debates about liability. At Arslan Lawyers, we offer you free legal assistance to recover your damage. We ensure that all your damage items are accurately accounted for and that you receive the maximum compensation. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is ready to help you.
Free legal help When a collision occurs with personal injury, your legal costs are covered by the insurer of the other party. This means that you can use our services for free without having to worry about extra costs.
Conclusion
Were you hit as a pedestrian and you want your damage compensated? Then contact Arslan Lawyers today. Our personal injury lawyers are ready to advise and assist you in filing your damage claim. We ensure that you quickly receive an advance on the total compensation, so that you can focus on your recovery.
Contact us now for free and no-obligation advice. We are happy to help you!