If you’re a pedestrian who has been injured as a result of a motor vehicle collision, you have the right to claim compensation for the damages you have suffered.
At Beckett, our experienced team of lawyers uses our knowledge of motor vehicle accident claims to get you the compensation you deserve. If you have been involved in a pedestrian vs. car accident, we can help.
What Are Pedestrian Accidents?
Pedestrian accidents are a type of motor vehicle accident in which a car hits an individual who is not in a vehicle, also referred to as a pedestrian. A pedestrian can be someone who is walking, jogging, or even on skates, a scooter or in a wheelchair. In general, someone can be considered a pedestrian if they are not in a vehicle or on a bicycle, regardless of what they are doing.
How Do Pedestrian Accidents Happen?
A pedestrian accident can have a variety of causes. A lack of visibility, ignoring street signs or traffic signals, and excessive speed can all be contributing factors in a pedestrian accident. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can also occur as the result of a car sliding or spinning out as a result of a collision between vehicles.
Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere; crosswalks, roads, parking lots, and intersections are all common places where these types of accidents occur.
Are Pedestrian Accidents Common?
According to the most recent statistics from Transport Canada, pedestrian fatalities accounted for just over 17% of all motor vehicle collision fatalities in 2018. It’s important to note that this number only accounts for pedestrian deaths, and does not include pedestrians who were injured as a result of a motor vehicle collision. The reality is that pedestrian injuries and fatalities are a fairly common occurrence on Canadian roads.
What Benefits Can I Claim If I’m Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
As a pedestrian injured in a pedestrian accident, you are entitled to receive compensation for the injuries or damages you’ve suffered. You can claim two types of damages - pecuniary and non-pecuniary. Pecuniary damages can be quantified and can include compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including rehabilitation and prescriptions)
- Loss of income (both past and future)
- Cost of future care
- Family member expenses
- Home maintenance expenses
- Housekeeping expenses
Non-pecuniary damages can include compensation for pain and suffering incurred or the reduction in your quality of life as a result of your injuries.
What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you’re involved in any type of accident, your first priority should be the safety or medical care of all involved. After taking necessary safety precautions, contacting the police, further medical care, and auto insurance providers are a common next step. The police can record statements from all parties involved, and your insurance company can get started on your claim and alert you of the next steps you should take.
It is important to contact your own automobile insurer to advise of any accident involving a vehicle, even if you were not in your vehicle at the time. The law of Ontario has many rules and regulations to be considered in any accident involving an automobile, which is why we always recommend that anyone injured in any way by an automobile, no matter the circumstances or whose fault it might be, consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer right away.
It’s advisable to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident. You only have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for damages, so the sooner you can connect with a lawyer, the better.
Beckett lawyers are experienced in handling motor vehicle collision cases. If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a pedestrian accident, we can help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free evaluation!
Published on April 23, 2021
