London Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
For the most part, pedestrians in London have the right-of-way when sharing the road with motorists. When a vehicle is in a collision with a pedestrian, the driver of the car is likely to be fine while the pedestrian, with no protection at all, is likely to suffer some of the most severe injuries.
Because of this, the law typically sides with the pedestrian. However, they will still need the help of a London pedestrian accident lawyer in order to get the compensation they deserve. A London pedestrian accident lawyer may be able to help injured survivors of serious collisions recover damages for injuries they have incurred because of a motor vehicle operator’s negligence.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
After an increase in Ontario accidents that involved both a pedestrian and a car, the Office of the Chief Coroner completed a study to identify the main causes. They include:
- Drivers failing to give right-of-way
- Drivers traveling at excessive speed
- Distracted driving
- Driving or walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Most Common Injuries
During the review, the Office of the Chief Coroner also investigated the most common injuries and found them to be:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Asphyxia, typically from being run over
- Head injuries, including blunt force trauma and crushing injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Back injuries
- Broken arms, legs, ribcage, feet, and/or hands
Pedestrian Accidents and Insurance in Ontario
One of the first steps injured pedestrians should take is to apply for Statutory Accident Benefits, as per the Ontario Insurance Act. Ontario is a no-fault province and so, if the pedestrian owns a vehicle and has insurance covering that vehicle, they will need to go through their own insurance company in order to file a claim.
However in many cases, pedestrians do not have a car and therefore, also do not have an insurance policy. In these instances, the pedestrian can still claim the Statutory Accident Benefits, but they will need to go through the driver’s insurance company in order to do so.
Insurance companies often deny benefits or try to find fault with the injured party so the payout will be smaller and they will lose less of their profit. A lawyer can help injured pedestrians get the full amount of compensation they may be entitled to, but they can also help those injured file a civil lawsuit. Lawsuits differ vastly from accident insurance claims and can be filed regardless of the decision made by the insurance company.
CONTACT PRESZLER INJURY LAWYERS
If a negligent driver struck you while you were crossing at an intersection, walking through a parking lot, strolling down the sidewalk, or in any other circumstance, our London pedestrian accident lawyers may be able to help you recover the compensation you deserve for injuries you have sustained. To receive a free initial consultation with our pedestrian accident lawyers serving London, call 1-800-JUSTICE today.
