A London pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. If you’ve been involved in such an accident, you might be entitled to make a claim for compensation. This article will guide you through the process of determining your eligibility and seeking the compensation you deserve. We will also highlight how you can start a road traffic accident claim.
Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in London
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common in busy urban environments like London. These accidents can occur due to various reasons, including driver negligence, poorly maintained roads, inadequate pedestrian crossings, and distracted driving.
The consequences of these accidents can be severe, ranging from minor injuries like cuts and bruises to more serious ones such as broken bones, head injuries, and even fatalities. In addition to the physical injuries, victims may also suffer from psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Establishing Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Claim
To make a successful pedestrian accident claim in London, it’s crucial to establish liability. This means proving that the accident was caused by the negligence of another party, such as a driver, cyclist, or property owner.
Evidence plays a vital role in establishing liability. This may include witness statements, CCTV footage, police reports, and medical records. It’s important to gather as much evidence as possible immediately after the accident to support your claim.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in London
Several factors contribute to pedestrian accidents in London. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver negligence: This includes speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving (e.g., using a mobile phone), and failing to yield to pedestrians at crossings.
- Poorly maintained roads and pavements: Uneven surfaces, potholes, and inadequate lighting can increase the risk of pedestrian accidents.
- Inadequate pedestrian crossings: Insufficient or poorly designed pedestrian crossings can make it difficult for pedestrians to cross roads safely.
- Cyclist negligence: Cyclists who ride recklessly or fail to follow traffic rules can also pose a danger to pedestrians.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in London
If you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in London, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional.
- Report the accident to the police: This will create an official record of the accident, which can be helpful for your claim.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much evidence as possible, including contact details of witnesses, photographs of the accident scene, and any relevant CCTV footage.
- Contact a solicitor: Seeking legal advice from a specialist personal injury solicitor can help you understand your rights and options for making a claim.
Types of Compensation You Can Claim
If your pedestrian accident claim is successful, you may be entitled to different types of compensation, including:
General damages:
This compensates for the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity caused by your injuries. Â
Special damages:
This covers any financial losses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident, such as medical expenses, lost earnings, and travel costs. Â
Future losses:
If your injuries have long-term effects, you may be able to claim for future losses, such as loss of future earnings and ongoing care costs. Â
Time Limits for Making a Pedestrian Accident Claim
In the UK, there’s generally a three-year time limit for making a personal injury claim, including pedestrian accident claims. This means you have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as for children and those who lack mental capacity. It’s advisable to contact a solicitor as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Making a Road Traffic Accident Claim with National Claims
At National Claims, we understand the profound impact that road traffic accidents can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, whether it be due to fatigue, distraction, or recklessness.
Free Consultation
We recognise that every road traffic accident case is unique, and we’re here to offer you a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your specific situation. During this consultation, we’ll listen attentively to your experience, gather relevant details about the accident, and assess the potential strength of your claim.
Our team will then connect you with a qualified solicitor from our panel who specialises in road traffic accident claims, ensuring that you receive the expert legal representation needed to pursue your case effectively.
*Customers pay up to 25% (incl. VAT) of the amount recovered towards solicitor costs and if you cancel outside your cooling off period, you may be charged a fee.
Contact us today to speak to one of our claims agents who will be able to help you get started on your claim.
Click below to see why we are one of the most trusted claims management companies in the UK.
We’re proud of our excellent customer reviews
We thrive on delivering exceptional service and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our independent reviews to see what our clients have to say.
Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
