Hit by a Vehicle in Vermont? We Can Help.

vermont-pedestrian-accident-attorney

Pedestrian accidents are frequently unexpected and traumatizing. In 2014, 5 pedestrians lost their lives in vehicle collisions in Vermont and many more were injured and hospitalized. At the time of the accident, these people were just going about their days. Some might have been crossing the street or walking on the sidewalk. Pedestrian fatalities have thankfully declined over the past few years from a high of 10 in 2012. But even 5 is too many people to lose to car accidents.

At Sabbeth Law, our Vermont pedestrian accident attorney is an experienced, results-focused professional for injured victims and their loved ones. We are measured by our history of success. If you or your loved one was harmed in a pedestrian accident, you must have a skilled attorney on your side. To set up a free, no-obligation case evaluation with an experienced Vermont pedestrian accident lawyer, please do not hesitate to contact our law firm today. 

What to Do After a Pedestrian Collision in Vermont 

Pedestrian collisions are one of the most devastating types of accidents that can occur on the roads. They can result in severe injuries, long-term disabilities, and even death. You need to be proactive after a crash. Here are four key steps to take after a pedestrian accident in Vermont:

  1. Report the Pedestrian Crash: Call 911 immediately and report the accident to law enforcement. A police report is a key form of documentation. As an injured pedestrian, it is in your best interests to ensure that your crash is reported to the Vermont State Police (VSP) or another state or local law enforcement agency. 
  2. Seek Immediate Medical Care: All pedestrian injuries require prompt medical care. Emergency needs take top priority. Non-emergency injuries should still be evaluated. If you witness someone being hit by a car or other type of vehicle, call 911 immediately. Do not move them unless they are in a clear and present danger in their current location.
  3. Document the Pedestrian Accident: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to the vehicles involved, any skid marks, and any visible injuries. Also, get contact information from any witnesses to the accident. Vermont is a fault-based pedestrian accident state, documenting a crash is a must. 
  4. Speak to a Vermont Lawyer Before an Insurer: Do not take on the legal claims process alone. After a pedestrian collision, the driver’s insurance company will likely contact you to try and settle quickly. However, it is in your best interest to speak with a Vermont lawyer before agreeing to any settlements or signing any documents. 

The Most Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor scrapes to severe, life-changing injuries. Many times these injuries are permanent, leading to depression, immobility, loss of enjoyment of life, and the inability to return to work. The injuries that can come from a pedestrian accident are serious and debilitating. Here are some of the most commonly reported injuries:

  • Cuts and lacerations; 
  • Fractures and broken bones; 
  • Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains and strains; 
  • Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries; 
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis;
  • Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding; 
  • Psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety; 
  • Death. 

An Overview of Vermont’s Pedestrian Accident Laws

Were you injured in a pedestrian crash in White River Junction, Windsor County, or anywhere else in Vermont? Your claim will fall under state law. You need to know how our state handles pedestrian accident liability. Here are three key points about the law and the claims process: 

  1. Pedestrian Liability is Based on Fault: A driver is not automatically liable for a pedestrian crash in Vermont. These are at-fault cases, meaning the party deemed to be responsible for causing the crash through their negligence will bear liability for the damages.  
  2. Comparative Negligence Applies: Multiple parties may split liability for the same pedestrian collision. Under Vermont law (Vt. Stat. Ann. Tit. 12, § 1036), these cases are subject to comparative negligence. Each party to the crash, including the pedestrian, will bear responsibility for their “share” of the fault. 
  3. Three Years to Bring a Claim: Under Vermont law (Vt. Stat. Ann. 12 § 512(1)), pedestrian accident injury claims are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. You must file any pedestrian accident injury lawsuit within three years of the crash. 

Recovering Full and Fair Compensation for Your Injuries

Following a pedestrian crash, injured victims need compensation to pay bills and support themselves and their loved ones. At Sabbeth Law, our Vermont pedestrian accident lawyer fights hard to ensure that our clients get the absolute maximum settlement or verdict. You may be entitled to recover financial compensation for the following types of losses: 

  • Medical bills;
  • Rehabilitation costs; 
  • Lost wages; 
  • Loss of earning power;
  • Pain and suffering; 
  • Mental anguish; 
  • Disability; 
  • Disfigurement; and
  • Wrongful death. 

Why Rely On Our Vermont Pedestrian Accident Attorneys 

For the victims and families of a Vermont pedestrian accident, it can be a confusing and emotionally painful time. You may feel like your options are limited and that you must take the first settlement offer presented to you just to be over with it. You may feel that trusting your insurance company is the best route for you. But by accepting this initial settlement you may not receive the compensation you deserve or the one you need to ease the financial burden of an accident. However, you will also likely discover that the interests of insurance companies do not align with your own. Hiring experienced pedestrian accident attorney Michael J. Sabbeth is the first step to making sure you receive the fair compensation you deserve. We are proactive and committed to personalized representation. Among other things, our Vermont pedestrian accident lawyers are prepared to: 

  • Conduct a free, comprehensive review of your pedestrian accident claim; 
  • Investigate your pedestrian crash, gathering the evidence you need; 
  • Handle the legal paperwork and settlement negotiations with insurers; and
  • Develop a pedestrian accident strategy designed to maximize your compensation. 

You Can Always Afford to Hire a Top Vermont Pedestrian Collision Attorney

You do not have to take on the insurance company in a pedestrian accident case alone. No matter your financial situation, you should speak to a top Vermont pedestrian accident lawyer. We represent victims on contingency. There are never upfront costs. Our Vermont pedestrian accident attorney only gets paid when you get paid. 

Pedestrian Crashes in Vermont: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Does the Pedestrian Accident Claim Process Take in Vermont?

The length of time it takes to resolve a pedestrian accident claim in Vermont varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case and the severity of the injuries. It could take months to even years to resolve. Working with an experienced Vermont lawyer can help streamline the process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

What is the Value of My Pedestrian Accident Injury Case?

The value of a pedestrian accident injury case in Vermont depends on various factors, such as the severity of the injuries, the extent of medical treatment required, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life. Remember compensation can cover economic losses, such as medical bills and lost wages, as well as intangible losses, such as pain and suffering. 

Should I Give a Statement to an Insurance Company After a Pedestrian Collision?

No.

At least you should not do so without first consulting with a top Vermont pedestrian accident lawyer. Insurance companies are motivated to try to resolve their liability for as little as possible. They train their adjusters to try to get people to say things that they can use against them in the claims process. A lawyer will protect you every step of the way. 

Set Up a No Cost Consultation With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Vermont

At Sabbeth Law, our Vermont pedestrian accident attorneys are skilled, experienced, and justice-focused advocates for victims and families. You do not have to take on the big insurance companies alone.  If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, call me at 802-230-1845 or contact us online to get a free case evaluation. From our law office in White River Junction, we are well-positioned to represent injured pedestrians in Vermont and New Hampshire.