If you are reading this, it’s likely because you or someone you know has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Georgia. We understand how overwhelming and confusing this situation can be. After an accident, you may feel lost, unsure of what steps to take next, and concerned about how this incident will affect your future. At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we are deeply empathetic to the emotions you are experiencing, and we want to assure you that you are not alone. Our goal is to guide you through the investigation process, ensuring you have the support you need every step of the way. Understanding what to expect during the investigation of a pedestrian accident can help ease your worries and give you a clearer picture of the path ahead.
Initial Steps After a Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian is involved in an accident, the investigation begins with an immediate response from law enforcement. Police officers are typically the first to arrive at the scene. Their primary responsibility is to assess the situation, collect evidence, and ensure that everyone involved is safe. At this point, officers will speak with witnesses, examine the scene, and take down key details such as the location of the accident, the weather conditions, and the actions leading up to the incident. They will also talk to the driver involved in the accident. The police report that is generated will be a crucial part of the investigation, as it provides an official account of the accident.
Once you have received medical attention for your injuries, the investigation process will move forward with the collection of evidence. This is where your lawyer will begin to play a vital role. If you decide to seek legal help, your lawyer will work closely with investigators to ensure that no detail is overlooked. They will gather all available evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and photographs of the accident scene. The goal is to piece together the events leading up to the accident, so you have a clear picture of what happened.
How Your Lawyer Works With Investigators
A personal injury lawyer will typically work with private investigators to ensure the full scope of the accident is understood. These investigators are trained to look for evidence that may not be immediately apparent. They will examine the accident site for skid marks, debris, or any other signs that could explain how the accident occurred. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or even dashcam footage from other vehicles can be crucial to determining the cause of the accident. Investigators will also speak with witnesses to get a clearer understanding of the circumstances.
Adam Princenthal
Attorney At Law
David May
Attorney At Law
Matthew Wilson
Attorney At Law
Another important part of the investigation is determining whether any traffic laws were violated. Pedestrian accidents are often caused by drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks or who run red lights. A thorough investigation will look into the driver’s actions and determine if negligence played a role in the incident. The results of these findings will be essential when it comes to determining liability in your case.
Gathering Medical Records and Evidence of Injuries
In addition to investigating the scene of the accident, it is important to gather all necessary medical records. Medical records will help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and how they are affecting your life. This information is vital for proving your case, as it shows not only what happened immediately following the accident but also how your injuries may impact your future.
In some cases, pedestrians may suffer from severe injuries, such as broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries. These injuries often require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and sometimes surgery. Your lawyer will work with medical professionals to gather your treatment records and determine the long-term effects of your injuries. This documentation will help calculate your medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the accident.
It is also important to keep track of your medical appointments, physical therapy sessions, and any other treatments you may need. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
After a car accident, I contacted David May at the Lagrange office. He, and his staff, helped me with medical advice and follow up doctors visits, along with dealing with my insurance and the insurance of the woman that hit me. I have been very pleased with the service I received from David May and the Lagrange staff. They are warm and open, always there to help with advice and answer questions.”
- Debau
I highly recommend Adam Princenthal .I was looking for someone with years of experience in personal injury.They needed to be knowledgeable, transparent and honest.I wanted to know I was dealing directly with the lawyer I hired.Adam Princenthal could answer all the difficult questions and phone calls were returned.Adam got the settlement I was looking for in a timely manner."
- Nancy K.
I am glad that I was referred to Princenthal & May. Matthew met with me and gained my trust with the case. I was never left in the dark on any matters, My phone calls were either answered or returned quickly. The office staff are very friendly as well. My case was settled, with both Matthew and Adam present. Both are very professional in their work.. They work for you !!!"
- Jacque Minor
The Role of Insurance Companies in the Investigation
Once the investigation begins, your lawyer will reach out to the insurance companies involved. This could be the insurance company of the driver who caused the accident or your own health insurance provider if you are seeking compensation for medical bills. Insurance companies play a significant role in pedestrian accident cases, and they often seek to settle claims quickly, sometimes offering a low settlement. However, you should be cautious when dealing with insurance companies. They are often more interested in protecting their bottom line than ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. They will ensure that all necessary evidence is provided, and they will fight to make sure that you are not taken advantage of. In some cases, the insurance company may attempt to downplay the severity of your injuries or dispute liability for the accident. This is where the thorough investigation conducted by your lawyer and their team becomes essential. By gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing medical records, they can build a strong case to counter any tactics the insurance company may use to reduce your compensation.
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Understanding the Legal Process and Timeline
The timeline for a pedestrian accident case can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company or other parties involved to negotiate a fair settlement. In some cases, a settlement can be reached relatively quickly, especially if liability is clear and the extent of the injuries is well-documented. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer may need to take the case to court.
Before filing a lawsuit, your lawyer will review all the evidence, assess the damages, and determine the appropriate course of action. This may include sending demand letters to the responsible party or their insurance company. If these negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your lawyer may file a lawsuit and take the case to trial. At trial, a judge or jury will review the evidence and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive.
Throughout the investigation and legal process, your lawyer will keep you informed about your case’s progress. They will answer your questions, explain the next steps, and offer guidance on how to proceed. They will also help you prepare for the possibility of going to court, ensuring you are fully prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
Representative Cases
At Princenthal, May & Wilson, LLC, we are here to support you through every step of the investigation process. We understand how difficult and stressful a pedestrian accident can be, and we want to make sure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our team is committed to gathering all necessary evidence, working with investigators, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you have the best chance of a successful outcome.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Georgia, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our firm has the experience, dedication, and resources needed to guide you through this challenging time. Let us handle the investigation and legal process, so you can focus on your recovery. We are here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
