Monmouth County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Our modern society–at least in terms of transportation–is largely built around cars. This can have potentially devastating consequences for pedestrians who find themselves staring down a two-ton vehicle speeding towards them while trying to cross the street safely. No pedestrian is a match for a motor vehicle.
If you have been injured by a negligent motorist you will likely have many questions about your legal rights for seeking compensation. A qualified Monmouth County pedestrian accident lawyer can help provide some answers. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, we represent accident victims in dealing with insurance companies and negligent drivers in the aftermath of a preventable crash.
Is a Motorist Always Responsible for a Pedestrian Accident?
Pedestrian accidents can occur for many reasons. Some of the more common factors involved include speeding, drunk or distracted driving, or simply a motorist’s failure to keep a proper lookout for pedestrians. Regardless of the cause, if an injured pedestrian can prove that a motorist’s negligence caused an accident, the pedestrian is entitled to seek compensation in the form of monetary damages.
Such damages include any out-of-pocket losses sustained by the pedestrian. For example, a pedestrian is entitled to damages for their past and current medical bills, as well as any future costs associated with their care and rehabilitation related to the accident. A pedestrian can also demand compensation for their lost wages and reduced earning potential as a result of the accident. A court can also award what are known as “non-economic damages,” which cover intangible but very real injuries such as the pedestrian’s ongoing pain and suffering and their diminished quality of life post-accident.
It is important to understand that while motorists are generally found at least partially at-fault for a pedestrian accident, you should not automatically assume that a court will determine the motorist was 100 percent responsible for your particular accident. New Jersey follows a “modified comparative fault” rule in all personal injury cases, which includes lawsuits arising from pedestrian accidents. In practical terms, this means the motorist can try and assign some–or all–of the blame for the accident on you. For example, the motorist may try to argue that you “jumped out in front of their car without warning” or that you were attempting to cross the street outside of a designated intersection. Under the comparative fault rules, a court can reduce the amount of damages you may recover if you are ultimately found partially responsible–and you will recover nothing if you are more than 50 percent liable.
NJ Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Serving Ocean, Monmouth & Middlesex County
Pedestrians who are hit by a car often face a long road to recovery, not only physically but also emotionally and financially. A compassionate, skilled New Jersey pedestrian accident lawyer can take some of the burden off of your plate as you work to rebuild your life. So if you have been injured in an accident and need legal advice, contact Poulos LoPiccolo PC today to schedule an initial consultation with a member of our staff.
