Closed head or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can impact the skull at the cellular level during a pedestrian accident. The sudden push and pull movement of the brain within the skull can tear and disrupt the structures that support healthy brain function.
Like all injuries, brain injuries can range in severity. Unfortunately, because a TBI damages the brain, pedestrian accident victims are likely to have extensive medical and rehabilitation bills. Having a brain injury such as a TBI can also affect your ability to return to work, or you may incur a permanent disability that impacts you long-term. If you have suffered a TBI in a pedestrian accident, there are immediate steps you should take to build your claim against the at-fault driver. Consult with a skilled Washington personal injury attorney today for specific guidance regarding your claim.
Steps You Should Take Immediately after a TBI from a Pedestrian Accident in Washington
There are specific things you must do after experiencing a TBI from a pedestrian accident. In order to recoup compensation for your medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages, you must build a solid case against the at-fault driver. These steps include:
Receive Medical Attention
Even if you think you are okay after sustaining damage from a pedestrian accident, it is essential that you receive medical attention. Symptoms can worsen over time, and you need to document the extent of your injuries. Unless the sudden blow of the TBI produces hemorrhaging within the skull, it may not show up on imaging tests. Diagnosis commonly depends on the following symptoms:
- Memory loss
- Headache
- Confusion
- Lost concentration
- Lightheadedness and dizziness
- Sleepiness and fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Mood swings
- Rage
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Lost consciousness or coma
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Slurred or unrecognizable speech
- Lost coordination
- Anxiety, depression, and agitation
- Thoughts of suicide
If you have experienced a TBI, make sure you seek medical attention immediately. Make sure you follow all treatment plan steps and advice. It may be beneficial to seek the medical guidance of a brain specialist. Ignoring TBI symptoms is dangerous.
Assemble Evidence
If you are physically able to assemble evidence, you should attempt to do so. Gathering evidence from the scene of the accident, such as photos, witness testimonies, and videos can help you build a strong claim and better establish fault for the accident.
The negligent driver that caused the accident is legally liable to pay damages to the victim. If you’ve experienced injuries in a pedestrian accident, you may have to prove the following in order to establish fault:
- Evidence of driver negligence
- Proof their negligence caused the accident
- Proof of your injuries
It is essential to mention that there are a few Washington laws that apply to pedestrians that could potentially impact your claim. If the accident occurred because of your own negligence, your compensation could be reduced. Here are a few examples of instances involving pedestrian negligence:
- Pedestrians should not dart out in front of traffic.
- Pedestrians are required to abide by traffic control laws like stop signs and stop lights.
- Pedestrians are required to walk facing traffic on the left side of the road if there are no sidewalks.
- If pedestrians choose to cross at other points other than an intersection, they must yield to oncoming traffic.
Consult an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer for guidance surrounding your claim and advice on how to proceed forward. Pedestrian accident claims may be complex, and a skilled attorney can help you build a solid case to recoup compensation for the damages you have endured.
Avoid Talking to the Insurance Company without a Lawyer
Avoid talking to the insurance company, especially if they are the negligent party’s insurer. Insurance companies tend to look for ways to lowball victims to save money, and they will do whatever is necessary to reduce the compensation due to the victim. Any information you provide to the insurance company may be used against you.
Accepting an offer from an insurance company forfeits your right to pursue legal action against the negligent party. An experienced attorney can review their offer and reach a fair settlement for your injuries, pain, and suffering.
Contact a Washington Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today
While recovering from a serious TBI may take time, healing is possible with proper medical care, rehabilitation efforts and a team of expert pedestrian accident lawyers willing to fight for you.The attorneys at Premier Law Group understand how traumatic and overwhelming a pedestrian accident can be, especially if it results in a serious injury such as a traumatic brain injury. You need to focus on healing your TBI, ensuring the best medical care is provided to you, and getting your financial needs taken care of in this stressful time.
Our pedestrian accident lawyers strive to provide personalized representation throughout your legal journey and work hard to recoup the compensation you are owed for your injuries. Pedestrian accident cases can be complex, and you need an experienced attorney that will help you achieve the best outcome. Call us today at (206) 880-7518 for a free consultation regarding your claim or fill out our contact form.