In a lively metropolis like Vancouver, pedestrians and motor vehicles are often in close proximity with one another, often when there is poor visibility. While thankfully the vast majority of trips taken by car or on foot occur with no incident, pedestrian accidents are a reality of modern life. In fact, according to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia1 (ICBC), an average of 2,700 pedestrians are injured each year in car accidents each year.
Pedestrians who are involved in accidents with vehicles can sustain injuries that require medical attention and long-term hospitalization, often resulting in significant medical expenses and other losses. In many cases, victims can recover for any losses they sustain through a personal injury claim, so it is important for people hurt in pedestrian accidents to talk to a Vancouver pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible.
Examples of the kinds of negligence that can result in pedestrian accidents
Drivers have a duty to others on the road to operate their vehicles in a way that does not create an unreasonable risk of injury. Of course, this does not always occur, and sometimes driver negligence can cause extremely serious accidents. Some of the more common forms of driver negligence that result in Vancouver pedestrian accidents include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving2
- Failure to yield
- Impaired driving
- Improper maintenance of a vehicle
- Ignoring poor weather conditions
- Failure to stop at a stop signs
- Failing to observe traffic signals
- Fatigued driving
- Not stopping at designated crosswalks
After an accident, it is important for victims to retain a lawyer in order to determine whether they have a valid claim, to ensure that a thorough fact investigation is conducted quickly to obtain the evidence required to successfully pursue your claim. In most instances, people who file legal claim with the assistance of a lawyer recover significantly more compensation than those who choose to represent themselves.
Contact a Vancouver personal injury today to schedule a case evaluation
Individuals who have been injured in a pedestrian accident in or around the Vancouver area are often entitled to compensation for both their injuries and resulting pain and suffering as well as wage loss and treatment expenses not covered under the Medical Services Plan. The personal injury lawyers of McLarty Wolf are dedicated to helping people who have been hurt in accidents caused by the negligence of others. To schedule an appointment to discuss your case, call our office today at 604-688-9542.
References:
1 http://www.icbc.com/about-icbc/newsroom/Documents/pedestrian-children.pdf
2 http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/cycp-cpcj/dd-dv/index-eng.htm
