If you have been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident that resulted from the negligent action of another party, you need a lawyer to protect your rights. An experienced pedestrian injury attorney in Portland can investigate your case and identify fault. Also, they can represent your interests when it’s time to negotiate a fair settlement with the party’s insurer. A good attorney can also represent the pedestrian in court.
Usually, insurance providers will provide a quick, lowball settlement to try to close your claim. Sometimes, they may deny your claim or argue that the victim is more at fault for the accident than their policyholder. As you concentrate on your recovery, your lawyer will protect your legal rights and value your case. Here’s what you can expect from your pedestrian attorney:
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Give Advice on the Steps to Take
A lot of people are not sure where to seek help from after they suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident. It is important to seek medical treatment but you also have to think about getting legal representation. A skilled attorney can tell you the steps you must take after the accident that caused your injuries. This way, you will know whether you have a strong case against the negligent party, how you can pursue a case, and the types of compensation you may be eligible for.
Prove Fault for the Accident
To hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries, you must have proof that shows how the accident took place and who caused it. Typically, a pedestrian accident case rests on determining negligence. To prove negligence, you must show that the party has a legal duty of care to others, they violated this duty, such violation led to your accident, and this accident caused your injury.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
After a pedestrian accident, an insurance adjuster may contact you soon. The insurance provider of the negligent party may try to offer a lowball offer to resolve your case quickly. An attorney can handle communications with the insurance company’s representative for you. They can determine a fair settlement for your case, considering your medical bills, pain and suffering, impairments, and lost income. Then, they can negotiate with the adjuster for a fair offer or file a lawsuit in court for you. When your case goes to trial, your attorney will ensure you meet all deadlines including the deadline for filing a suit.