The biggest benefit of hiring a pedestrian accident attorney is that you’re far more likely to receive fair compensation for your injuries than if you try to handle the claim on your own. An experienced Nashville pedestrian collision lawyer can investigate your accident, deal with the insurance company on your behalf, calculate the true value of your damages, and protect you from tactics designed to reduce your payout. Since most pedestrian accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis and offer free consultations as well, there’s no financial risk in making the call.
Here’s a closer look at some of the specific ways an attorney can make a difference in your case.
They Can Handle the Insurance Company for You
The at-fault driver’s insurance company will likely contact you before you’ve had time to fully understand your injuries or your legal rights after the accident takes place. Their goal is to close your claim as cheaply as possible, however, so that they can maintain their profits. They may offer a quick settlement to this end that sounds reasonable but doesn’t come close to covering what you’re actually owed.
A pedestrian accident attorney takes over that entire relationship for you by handling all of the communications and making sure you don’t accidentally say or sign something that hurts your case.
They Know How To Build a Successful Claim
Proving a pedestrian accident case takes more than just telling your side of the story. You need evidence that connects the driver’s negligence to your injuries and documentation that supports the full value of your damages. An attorney can:
- Obtain the police report and any available surveillance footage
- Interview witnesses and preserve their statements
- Work with accident reconstruction professionals if the facts are disputed
- Coordinate with your doctors to document your injuries and future treatment needs
- Calculate both your economic losses and the personal impact the accident has had on your life
Doing all of this on your own while recovering from a serious injury is difficult; having someone manage it for you means the legal side of things doesn’t fall through the cracks.
They Can Protect You From Unfair Blame
Tennessee’s modified comparative fault statute makes it possible for the insurance company to reduce or eliminate your compensation by arguing that you were partly responsible for the accident. If your share of the fault reaches 50% or higher, you lose the right to recover anything. Below that threshold, every percentage point they pin on you takes money directly out of your pocket.
Your lawyer can counter these arguments with evidence and a legal strategy that keeps the blame where it belongs.
They Understand Tennessee’s Tight Deadline
Tennessee generally gives you just one year from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. That’s one of the shortest statutes of limitations in the country. Missing it means your case is over, regardless of how compelling it might have been otherwise.
In this context, a meticulous Nashville personal injury attorney can ensure every deadline is tracked and met so that your right to compensation stays protected.
Contact Woodard Injury Law for a Free Consultation With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Were you involved in a pedestrian accident in Tennessee? You may be entitled to substantial compensation. Call Woodard Injury Law today at (615) 640-3648 to schedule a free case review and learn about how we can help with you recover the money damages you need and deserve.