First of all, we don’t want you ever to experience or face a pedestrian accident in your life. But when it happens, victims face a lot of difficulties – emotionally, physically, and financially. One such difficulty is proving liability. Pedestrian accident liability depends on the evidence collected.
What You Need to Prove Liability in a Pedestrian Accident?
Keep reading the following key pieces of evidence that can help to support your case.
Police Reports
Filing a police report after a pedestrian accident is very important. When officers arrive at the scene, they will document the time, date, location of the accident, and any injuries or property damage.
They will also get statements from people at the scene, like drivers and witnesses. If the driver broke a traffic rule or law, like running a red light or speeding, the report may add a citation or even an arrest. These details create a record that can strengthen your claim.
Eyewitness Statements
People who saw the accident can offer powerful support. Witnesses may confirm that, as the pedestrian, you had the right of way or that the driver was distracted or driving aggressively.
Eyewitness accounts can be very essential, especially when the driver tries to shift the blame to the pedestrian. The more details they provide and the more credible they appear, the more weight their statement will have in front of insurers or a jury.
Video Footage
In today’s world, many streets are watched by surveillance cameras, traffic cameras, or security systems from the businesses around. Some drivers even have dashcams.
If at any point you were caught on video, that footage can show exactly what happened in real time and whether the pedestrian was jaywalking. It will also determine if the driver tried to brake. This visual proof is often undeniable and can be a game-changer.
Photos and Evidence from the Scene
Pictures taken immediately after an accident can help paint a clear picture of the accident. These may include markings in the crosswalk, traffic signals, skid marks, or broken glass. They can also show if the driver had enough time to stop.
In some cases, even the pedestrian items like their clothes, shoes, or any other personal belongings that were torn or thrown far away can provide context on the severity and direction of the crash. Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer in Houston increases your chances of getting help and compensation.
Medical Records
Medical documentation is key to proving how the accident directly caused your injuries. Hospital records and doctor notes show the nature and extent of your injuries as well as provide a timeline of events. They can counter any claims that your pain was pre-existing or not related to the accident.
Conclusion
Proving liability in a pedestrian accident requires having the right evidence. That is why it is important to act quickly and preserve any key information. Also, it is essential to speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer in your area to handle the case effectively. To establish liability in a pedestrian accident case, evidence like photos or video footage, police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony is necessary. Medical records documenting injuries and their connection to the accident are also vital.
