Fargo Pedestrian Accident Lawyers 

Support for Pedestrian Accident Victims in North Dakota

When a driver strikes someone while they are not in a car themselves, it is known as a pedestrian accident. Not surprisingly, pedestrian accidents are known for often causing catastrophic injuries. As a result, the compensation owed to the injured pedestrian can be steep, and the opposing insurance company will do whatever it can to not pay such a large amount. 

Maring Williams Law Office can help you file a pedestrian accident claim if you were hit while walking through Fargo. Our Fargo pedestrian accident attorneys have decades of collective legal experience that we can use to build your case and pursue the most compensation possible in your name.

We can help you if you were hit by a car while walking along a:

• Crosswalk
• Sidewalk
• Parking lot
• Suburban street

Contact our Fargo pedestrian accident lawyers today to discuss your case and start pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents in North Dakota are often the result of driver negligence, with specific causes that our Fargo attorneys frequently encounter. Understanding these causes can be crucial in identifying liability and building a solid case. Common factors include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, using GPS, or otherwise distracted can fail to notice pedestrians in their path.
• Speeding: Higher speeds reduce a driver's reaction time, making it harder for pedestrians to stop, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or crosswalks.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who ignore crosswalks, stop signs, or traffic lights pose a serious risk to pedestrians.
• Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers have reduced reflexes and judgment, increasing the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians.
• By pinpointing the specific cause of your accident, we can strengthen your claim and hold the responsible party accountable.

The actions you take immediately after being in a pedestrian accident are essential. Often, the best evidence for a claim can be found in those brief moments.

Let us know if you did any of the following after your pedestrian accident:

• Called the police: The police officers who responded to the scene of your accident should create a report that details what they saw. In that report, crucial information could outline how the driver was liable for the crash. We can connect with the local police department to get a copy of the report.
• Took pictures: If you used your smartphone to photograph the scene of the accident, you might have been the party who obtained the best evidence of liability. Allow us to review your photos so we can see how to use them in your claim.
• Get contact information: The driver’s license and insurance information you collect from the driver who hit you is crucial. Without it, you can’t bring a claim against them. This information can also show our Fargo pedestrian accident attorneys if that driver has a history of reckless driving. Also, don’t forget to get contact information from eyewitnesses who saw you get hit.
• See a doctor: Hopefully, you have already seen a doctor for at least a checkup after your pedestrian accident. If you haven’t, we recommend heading to urgent care next. The doctor’s medical examination will solidify the existence of your injuries, making it more difficult for the driver’s insurer to try to say you are fabricating your story.

Should you report a near miss to the police, too? If you can get good details about the driver who nearly hit you, you can probably file a complaint with the police so they know to look out for a reckless driver. However, it could be challenging to get any such information because most drivers will immediately flee the scene after a near miss.

In some instances, the driver may not be the one primarily at fault for the accident. For example, if a pedestrian was jaywalking and the driver did not have time to react because the pedestrian stepped out in front of them at the last minute. If you believe that you may have been partially at fault for your injuries, that doesn't necessarily mean you cannot receive compensation. In North Dakota, as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still receive some compensation for your injuries.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

The money that you are owed after a pedestrian accident could be significant. It will depend on the severity of your injuries. The worse you have been injured, the more money you are probably owed.

Compensation that we can demand in your pedestrian accident claim could include the following:

• Past and future medical treatment costs
• Past and future lost income and wages
• Pain, suffering, and lessened enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability and shortened life expectancy

The Statute of Limitations for Pedestrian Accidents 

If you've been injured in a pedestrian accident in North Dakota, it's essential to be aware of the statute of limitations. In this state, you typically have six years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to pursue compensation for your injuries, regardless of the strength of your case. To help you navigate this timeframe, here are some key points:

• Six-Year Limit: North Dakota law generally provides six years from the date of the accident to initiate a personal injury claim. This period applies to pedestrian accidents and most other types of injury cases.
• Wrongful Death Claims: If the accident tragically resulted in the loss of a loved one, family members typically have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Exceptions to the Rule: In some instances, exceptions may apply that could extend or shorten this period. For example, if the injured party is a minor or was incapacitated, the statute of limitations may be extended. Conversely, claims against government entities or municipalities may have shorter deadlines.
• Importance of Acting Quickly: Evidence is often freshest and most accessible soon after the accident. Witness accounts, security footage, and other critical information are more accessible to gather when action is taken promptly.

Understanding these deadlines is essential for protecting your right to fair compensation. Our attorneys are here to ensure your claim is filed on time and keep your case on track.

Contact Our Fargo Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

Starting a pedestrian accident case doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our Fargo attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way, beginning with a consultation to discuss your situation and determine the best course of action. We'll evaluate the details of your case, assess its legal standing, and outline the following steps to ensure you’re positioned for a strong start. Taking that first step toward justice and fair compensation is straightforward, and we’re here to support you throughout the process.

Ready to seek justice? Reach out to our Fargo pedestrian accident attorneys for a FREE consultation and personalized support!