After an accident, a pedestrian has a higher chance of being killed than a passenger. And if not, injury tends to be a disaster. Driving drivers in a drunken state pose a big threat to pedestrians. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that almost half of the accidents involving the death of pedestrians are caused by drunk drivers. Driving drunk is a reckless behavior that needs to be punished. That’s because, many times, people have been warned about this dangerous behavior.
Common Injuries From Pedestrian Accidents
Some of the most common injuries that may be supported by someone from pedestrian accidents involving drunk drivers include:
- Broken bones and bone fractures: Such accidents can result in fractured hands, shoulders, arms, legs, and the back.
- Soft tissue damage: Such injuries include strains, lacerations, sprains, contusions, dislocations, and tears. Soft tissue injuries might take a short time to heal, but they are also accompanied by scars and severe pain.
- Spinal cord injury: This is a very serious injury that can lead to paralysis or death. Such an injury will most likely necessitate long-term care.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Brain injuries are often life-altering. Some common symptoms that accompany such an injury include dizziness, headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, and depression.
The Dangers Of Drunk Driving
Alcohol changes brain function. That is why people are not recommended to operate any engine, including vehicles, with alcohol in their system. According to the National Road Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol damage your assessment, coordination, and reasoning. Almost always, drunk people will not follow traffic rules, such as giving way to pedestrians, therefore resulting in accidents.
Can A Pedestrian Sue?
Yes you can. Driving drunk is negligent behavior. And if the driver like that hit you, you are entitled to compensation. However, it is also wise to work with a professional team like those from Kuzyk Law. The possibility of winning cases with lawyers on your side is significantly higher than if you enter alone. Plus, the lawyer will find out the reasonable compensation depends on the injury that you suffer. If the accident results in death, then the family members of the deceased can sue the driver over the wrong death.
How Much Is An Injured Pedestrian Entitled To?
There is no special number that will be received by pedestrians after injury. The number of solutions is usually determined by many things. That is why you need a lawyer to count the amount that you have the right depends on the injury suffered. However, damage is usually calculated depending on the following:
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages and loss of normal life
Also, keep in mind that when you are looking for compensation, your fight will be against drunk driver insurance companies. Drivers may face legal impacts, but to get your solution, you will negotiate with an insurance company. That is why you don’t have to be in a hurry to finish before contacting a personal injury lawyer. If not, you might not get a fair solution.
Steps To Take After Being Hit By A Drunk Driver
If you are a pedestrian and you have a drunk driver, the first step is to get medical treatment. But if you are unconscious, most likely, the witness will make sure you go to the hospital. When you feel much better, look for the help of a personal injury lawyer. Such accidents can cause significant changes in a person’s life, including loss of income and financial pressure. An experienced lawyer will investigate this case and pursue compensation on your name.
As a pedestrian, you must be careful because you never know the state of the person behind the wheel. But if you are injured because a driver is drunk, working with a lawyer to pursue compensation.
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