Many people in Kingston choose walking as their mode of getting from place to place. While walking is great exercise and often a pleasant way to get around, there are times when serious pedestrian accidents take place, and if you were recently injured in one, you may require the services of an experienced Ulster County pedestrian accident lawyer. Contact John A. DeGasperis, Esq. today to learn more about pedestrian accidents in New York.
Do I Need an Ulster County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer?
If you were recently injured as a pedestrian, there is a very good chance that you are now seriously injured and require financial compensation to heal. A personal injury lawyer can help fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequent Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
When a pedestrian is struck by a car, you can bet that at least one of the parties was negligent. In most cases, the negligent party is a driver and not a pedestrian. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents are as follows:
- Overgrown vegetation preventing motorists from noticing pedestrians
- Texting while driving
- Ignoring stop signs or traffic lights
- Driving while under the influence
- Pedestrians wearing dark colors at night
- Poorly-lit sidewalks and streets
- Speeding
- Driving while fatigued
Fulfilling the Burden of Proof
Pedestrian accidents are often very severe, which is why if you were injured as a pedestrian, there is a strong chance that you won’t be able to do anything other than wait for the police to arrive at the scene. However, if you can, try to take the following actions:
- Call the police.
- Ask anyone who saw your accident for their contact information.
- Take pictures of the scene of the accident, including of any injuries you’ve sustained.
- Seek immediate medical treatment.
- Keep copies of all documentation regarding your injuries and how much they cost to treat.
- Consider speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you gather and present all evidence needed to satisfy the burden of proof in your personal injury claim.
Keep in mind that you are legally obligated to bring your personal injury claim within the state’s statute of limitations. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York State is three years, meaning that in most cases, you will only have three years from the date of your accident to take legal action against the negligent party. Waiting any longer than three years will most likely relinquish your right to sue. Our Ulster County pedestrian accident lawyer is ready to help you today.
Contact an Ulster County Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
After an accident, you may not know where to turn. We are on your side. Contact John A. DeGasperis, Esq. today to schedule your initial consultation with our firm.