If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident in Philadelphia, you’re likely wondering what kind of compensation you can expect. Accidents involving pedestrians can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. While no amount of money can truly make up for the trauma, understanding the average compensation can help you prepare for the legal journey ahead. As an experienced Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer, I aim to provide you with valuable insights into this topic.
Factors Affecting Compensation
Before diving into the average compensation figures, it’s crucial to understand that each case is unique. Several factors can influence the amount you may receive:
Severity of Injuries
The severity of your injuries plays a significant role in determining your compensation. If you sustain minor injuries that require less medical intervention, you can expect a lower settlement amount. On the other hand, severe injuries like fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord injuries often require long-term medical care, which can substantially increase your compensation. In cases where the accident results in a permanent disability, the compensation could be even more substantial to cover lifelong medical expenses and loss of earning capacity.
Medical Expenses
Medical costs are a straightforward yet crucial factor in your settlement. This includes not only immediate medical costs like emergency room visits, surgeries, and initial medication but also ongoing medical costs such as physical therapy and follow-up appointments. If your injuries are expected to require future medical interventions, these projected costs can also be included in your settlement amount.
Lost Wages
Your ability to work after the accident can have a significant impact on your financial stability and, consequently, your settlement. If you are temporarily unable to work, you may be compensated for the wages lost during that period. In more severe cases where you cannot return to your previous job or any job at all, you may be compensated for future lost wages. Additionally, if the accident affects your ability to progress in your career, this could also be considered in the settlement.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering, although harder to quantify, often make up the bulk of the damages in a personal injury lawsuit. This encompasses not just the level of physical pain you’ve endured but also the emotional suffering you’ve experienced. Psychological impacts like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder can be factored into your settlement. Moreover, if the accident affects your ability to enjoy life or perform daily activities, this can also be considered in the compensation amount.
Fault
The degree to which each party is at fault can also significantly impact your settlement. In jurisdictions that follow pure comparative negligence, even if you are partially at fault, you can still receive compensation, although it may be reduced. In jurisdictions that follow contributory negligence, being even slightly at fault may disqualify you from receiving any compensation. Furthermore, if more than one party is at fault, this can complicate the settlement but may also increase the total compensation amount.
Your Legal Representative
The lawyer you choose to represent you in a pedestrian accident lawsuit can make a significant difference in the final amount of compensation you receive. The fact is, not all personal injury law firms are created equal; they do not all have the same level of experience, skill, and resources necessary to win a maximum payout for you. This is why it is extremely important to choose an experienced Philadelphia pedestrian accident attorney.
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately all too common, and the injuries sustained can range from minor to life-threatening. Understanding the types of injuries that can occur can help victims and their families prepare for the medical and legal challenges ahead. As a seasoned Philadelphia pedestrian accident law firm, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact these injuries can have, and we’re here to help you.
Types of Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
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Soft Tissue Injuries
Sprains and Strains: Ligaments and muscles can be stretched or torn.
Bruises and Contusions: These are common but generally less severe.
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Broken Bones
Fractures: Arms, legs, and ribs are often broken in pedestrian accidents.
Skull Fractures: These can be particularly severe and may lead to traumatic brain injuries.
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Head and Brain Injuries
Concussions: A mild form of traumatic brain injury, often requiring extensive rest and monitoring.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): These can have long-term cognitive and physical impacts.
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Spinal Cord Injuries
Partial Paralysis: Loss of movement in certain parts of the body.
Complete Paralysis: Total loss of movement and sensation below the injury site.
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Internal Injuries
Organ Damage: Liver, kidneys, and other organs may be damaged.
Internal Bleeding: This can be life-threatening if not promptly addressed.
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Psychological Injuries
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The emotional impact can be long-lasting.
Anxiety and Depression: These are common after experiencing such a traumatic event.
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Fatal Injuries
Wrongful Death: In the most tragic cases, pedestrian accidents can be fatal.
Average Compensation in Philadelphia
While it’s challenging to pinpoint an exact average, compensation for pedestrian accidents in Philadelphia often ranges from $50,000 to $200,000. However, in cases involving severe injuries or wrongful death, the amount can exceed this range significantly. A meeting with an attorney can help you determine the approximate value of your case.
How a Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
Case Evaluation: A skilled lawyer can assess the merits of your case and guide you through the legal process.
Negotiation: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Legal Representation: If your case goes to court, having a competent Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer can make all the difference.
Understanding the average compensation for a pedestrian hit by a car in Philadelphia can be a complex task. However, with the help of a qualified Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer, you can navigate the legal maze more efficiently. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal advice.
At Munley Law, we’ve established ourselves as leading authorities in personal injury law, with a special focus on automobile and pedestrian accidents. With a legacy spanning over 60 years, we’ve been steadfast in fighting for the rights of accident victims throughout Pennsylvania. Our firm’s rich history began in 1959, and we’ve been committed to ensuring that victims receive adequate compensation for their injuries ever since. Our reputation isn’t just built on years of service; it’s also backed by the tangible results we’ve achieved for our clients, including numerous multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts. Our team of personal injury lawyers has received national recognition, being named among the Best Lawyers in America and selected to Pennsylvania Super Lawyers. We are also board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, a testament to our expertise and commitment to upholding the highest standards of legal practice. Our approach is client-centric, ensuring that every victim receives personalized attention, guidance, and the aggressive representation they deserve. Our dedication to our clients is evident in our promise to bear all upfront costs, only collecting fees if we win your case. This commitment showcases our confidence in our ability to deliver and our unwavering dedication to justice.
For a free consultation, contact Munley Law today. Your trusted Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer is here to help
