Hit by a Car in Orange County: Help for Injured Pedestrians
Being struck by a car can feel like your world is turned upside down. It’s not just the pain of the injuries; it’s the uncertainty of what happens next — the medical bills, the time off work, and the worry about your future.
If you or someone you care about has been hit by a car in Orange County, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. The aftermath of an accident is filled with questions, and seeking justice can seem intimidating — but you don’t have to face this alone.
Let us guide you through the process of seeking help, securing the compensation you need, and making sure that your voice is heard in the fight for your rights.
Do you need compassionate support and effective representation?
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.
What Should You Do Immediately After Being Hit by a Car in Orange County?
As a pedestrian injured in Orange County, it’s important to act quickly to protect your health and legal rights. First, ensure you’re safe, and if possible, move to a safer location, such as the sidewalk. Call 911 immediately for medical assistance and to report the accident to the authorities. The responding officers will document the incident and create an official report.
While waiting for help, try to gather the following information:
- The driver’s contact details and insurance information
- Contact details of any witnesses
- Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the vehicle involved
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, but they can worsen if left untreated.
What Types of Injuries Do Pedestrians Suffer in Car Accidents?
Pedestrians hit by cars are often left with serious injuries. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones: Fractures to legs, arms, or ribs can occur from the impact of being struck by a vehicle.
- Head injuries: Pedestrians are at high risk of concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and skull fractures.
- Spinal injuries: Damage to the spine can lead to long-term pain, paralysis, or other severe complications.
- Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, sprains, and strains are common in pedestrian accidents.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or organ damage.
These injuries can result in significant medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The more severe the injury, the greater the impact it may have on the victim’s life. A pedestrian accident attorney in the OC can help you pursue compensation for both immediate and long-term needs.
How Do You Prove Liability in a Pedestrian Accident in Orange County?
To recover compensation after being hit by a car in Orange County, you must prove that the driver was at fault. This means showing that the driver’s actions were negligent or reckless, such as running a red light, failing to yield to a pedestrian, or driving under the influence.
The evidence you gather at the scene can play a significant role in establishing liability. The police report, witness statements, and photographs of the scene are valuable tools. In some cases, traffic camera footage or dashcam videos may provide additional proof.
If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may also need to explore other avenues for compensation, such as your own insurance policy or the at-fault party’s employer if the driver was on the job at the time of the crash.
Why Is It Important to Contact a Lawyer After a Pedestrian Accident?
The legal process can be confusing, especially when dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, and the complexities of personal injury law. Having an experienced Orange County pedestrian injury lawyer on your side ensures that your interests are represented and that you don’t fall victim to common tactics used by insurers to minimize payouts.
An accident attorney can:
- Help you gather evidence
- Work with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if a fair settlement can’t be reached
Without a lawyer, you may unknowingly accept a low settlement offer that doesn’t fully cover your medical bills or future expenses. A lawyer will fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Can an Attorney Help with Your Pedestrian Injury Claim?
An attorney specializing in accident injury law can guide you through every step of the claims process. They will assess the value of your case by considering your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will also handle communications with insurance companies and legal professionals, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
One of the most important roles of your attorney is to ensure that your claim is filed on time. In California, there are statutes of limitations that limit the time you have to file a lawsuit.
Failing to meet these deadlines could result in losing your right to pursue compensation. An attorney will ensure that all legal deadlines are met, providing you with the best possible chance of receiving a fair settlement.
Can a Pedestrian Claim Compensation for Pain and Suffering?
Yes. In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, a pedestrian injured in Orange County can claim compensation for pain and suffering. This includes physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life. Calculating pain and suffering can be subjective, but an experienced attorney will work to ensure that this important element of your claim is properly evaluated.
Factors that influence pain and suffering claims include the severity of your injuries, the duration of your recovery, and the long-term impact on your daily life. For example, a traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury may cause lifelong limitations, which significantly increases the value of the claim.
What Should You Expect During a Pedestrian Injury Claim?
- Investigation: Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine the cause of the crash.
- Negotiation: If liability is clear, your attorney will work to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement can’t be reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit in court. This often leads to a settlement before the trial begins.
- Settlement or Trial: Most personal injury cases settle out of court. However, if necessary, your case may go to trial for a judge or jury to decide.
Throughout this process, it’s important to have a lawyer who is experienced in handling pedestrian injury claims. They will work to ensure that your case is presented in the strongest possible light.
How Can RTM Law Help Pedestrian Accident Victims?
If you’ve been hit by a car in Orange County, the attorneys at RTM Law, APC, can help you secure the compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges you may face after being injured in a pedestrian accident, and we are here to fight for your rights.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we win your case.
Victim of an accident? Talk to us. We speak Spanish and Filipino.
Do you need compassionate support and effective representation?
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.
