It's a sad reality, but pedestrian accidents are all too common. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 4,700 pedestrian fatalities in the United States in 2012. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, it's important to know that you have options. In this article, we'll discuss how to choose the best pedestrian accident lawyer in Dallas. But before that, let's discuss some basics about pedestrian accidents.
What Is A Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident is, quite simply, an accident involving a pedestrian. In most cases, these accidents are the result of a car striking a pedestrian. However, they can also occur when a pedestrian is hit by a bike, scooter, or other vehicle. Unfortunately, these accidents often result in serious injuries or even death.
What Should I Do If I'm Involved In A Pedestrian Accident?
If you're involved in a pedestrian accident, here are some steps you should take:
1. Seek medical attention, even if you don't think you're injured. Some injuries, such as concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Gather evidence at the scene of the accident, if possible. This can include photos of the scene, the license plate number of the vehicle involved, and the contact information of any witnesses.
3. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
It is also important to have a pedestrian accident lawyer on your side who knows how to deal with the insurance companies. The insurance company will likely try to lowball you on your settlement, but an experienced attorney will know how to negotiate for a fair amount.
How To Choose The Best Pedestrian Accident Lawyer In Dallas
1. Experienced in Handling Pedestrian Accident Cases
When you're looking for a lawyer to handle your pedestrian accident case, you want to make sure that they have experience specifically with this type of case. While many lawyers may have experience with car accidents, not all of them have the specific knowledge and expertise that's needed to handle a pedestrian accident case. This is important because pedestrian accident cases can be very different from car accident cases, and you want to make sure that your lawyer is well-versed in the laws and regulations that pertain to these types of accidents.
2. Knowledgeable about Dallas Traffic Laws
In addition to being experienced in handling pedestrian accident cases, you also want to make sure that your lawyer is knowledgeable about the specific traffic laws in Dallas. This is important because the traffic laws in Dallas can be different from other parts of Texas, and you want to make sure that your lawyer knows the ins and outs of these laws. This way, they can better advocate on your behalf and help you get the compensation you deserve.
3. Compassionate and Caring
When you've been the victim of a pedestrian accident, it's important to find a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable and experienced, but also compassionate and caring. This is because your lawyer will be working closely with you during this difficult time, and you want to make sure that they are someone who you can trust and rely on. Look for a lawyer who is easy to communicate with and who seems to genuinely care about your case.
4. Reputable and Trustworthy
Finally, you want to make sure that you choose a pedestrian accident lawyer who is reputable and trustworthy. This means looking for a lawyer who has a good track record of success in similar cases and who has a good reputation in the legal community. You can do this by reading online reviews, talking to friends and family, or even asking other lawyers for recommendations.
When you've been the victim of a pedestrian accident, it's important to know that you have options. By following the tips above, you can be sure that you choose the best pedestrian accident lawyer in Dallas to help you with your case.
Now that you know what to look for in a pedestrian accident lawyer, let's discuss the statute of limitations for these types of cases in Texas.
What Are The Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Pedestrian Accident Claim In Texas?
The statute of limitations is the deadline by which you must file a lawsuit. In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a pedestrian accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you were involved in a pedestrian accident and you want to file a lawsuit, you must do so within two years of the date of the accident. If you don't, your case will likely be dismissed.
The reason that the statute of limitations is so important is because it provides a deadline by which claims must be brought. This ensures that cases are not dragged out for years, and it also gives defendants a sense of finality. Once the statute of limitations has passed, defendants can be sure that they will not be sued for an accident that occurred years ago.
Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. If you're unsure about whether or not your case falls within the statute of limitations, it's important to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can review your case and let you know if you're still within the deadline to file a lawsuit.
Where Can I Find A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer In Dallas?
There are many Dallas car accident injury attorneys available to help you if you or a loved one has been the victim of a pedestrian accident.
You ca find a pedestrian accident lawyer by doing an online search, talking to friends and family, or even asking other lawyers for recommendations. Once you've found a few lawyers that you're interested in, be sure to schedule a consultation so that you can learn more about their experience and whether or not they're the right fit for your case.
How Much Does A Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Cost?
The cost of a pedestrian accident lawyer will vary depending on the lawyer's experience, the severity of your case, and other factors. Typically, lawyers will charge an hourly rate for their services. In some cases, lawyers may also charge a contingency fee. This means that they will only get paid if you win your case.
The best way to determine how much a pedestrian accident lawyer will cost is to schedule a consultation and ask them about their fees. This way, you'll be able to get an accurate estimate of what you can expect to pay.
What Should I Bring To My Consultation?
When you meet with a pedestrian accident lawyer, it's important to come prepared. This means bringing any documents or evidence that you have related to your case. This could include police reports, medical records, witness statements, and anything else that you think might be helpful. The more information you can provide, the better.
You should also be prepared to discuss the details of your accident. This includes how it happened, where it happened, and who was involved. The more information you can provide, the better.
Contact An Experienced Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
If you've been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer today. Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys has a team of experienced lawyers who are ready to help you with your case. They offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose by scheduling a meeting. Contact them today to learn more about your legal rights and options.