Tips to Strengthen Your Pedestrian Accident Case

 Posted on January 05, 2024 in Pedestrian Accidents

When a negligent driver hits you, you can suffer physically, emotionally, and financially. Injuries may lead to trauma and expensive medical bills you did not deserve. Filing a personal injury lawsuit with an Illinois personal injury lawyer can help you seek justice and recover damages. To build the strongest case possible against the motorist at fault, keep these tips in mind.

Get Immediate Medical Help

Even if you feel fine initially after getting hit by a car, see a doctor right away. Signs of concussion, internal bleeding, spinal, or brain injury can take time to appear. This is why it is so important to seek medical attention, even if you do not think you have injuries.

Adrenaline may mask pain temporarily. Getting promptly examined and treatment started can provide vital evidence documenting your injuries tied to the crash. Continue the recommended treatment to completely heal. Inconsistent medical care may weaken your injury claims.

Keep Detailed Records

Open a special file to collect and organize every bit of evidence related to your pedestrian injury case in date order. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and pharmacy receipts documenting injury diagnoses, treatments, devices, medications, and transportation needed. Note every expense related to the accident. Maintain precise records of missed wages and income due to the injury if unable to work. Detailed records prove the damages you seek to recover in a settlement or trial verdict.

Illinois Statute of Limitations

Illinois law allows two years from the date of a pedestrian accident to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This two-year deadline is called the statute of limitations.

Two important exceptions exist:

• Minors - For children under 18 years old involved in pedestrian collisions, the two year clock does not start ticking until they turn 18 years old. This allows extra time to bring a case once reaching the age of majority.
• Discovery Rule - The statute of limitations also may pause and then restart if a victim’s injuries do not manifest fully until a later date. For example, if a head injury causes complications or disabilities that only surface more than two years post-accident, courts allow extra time to sue.

To ensure your rights to full compensation related to injuries and losses from the pedestrian crash, understand these Illinois statute of limitation rules. Missing the ultimate filing deadline could mean losing your ability to successfully bring a case against the negligent motorist.

Contact a Springfield, IL Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Contact a Bloomington, IL personal injury lawyer soon after the collision. Bring the organized records you have kept plus evidence like photos, video, medical reports, and witness contact information. Call Kanoski Bresney at 888-826-8682 for a free consultation.