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Laredo is generally a safe place for pedestrians. However, it doesn’t mean pedestrian accidents never happen in Laredo. Pedestrian accidents often result in devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. When seeking a settlement, victims may focus on visible losses such as medical bills and missed wages. However, many often overlook other critical losses, which can significantly impact the total compensation.

If you’re a victim of such an accident in Laredo, Texas, a Laredo pedestrian accident attorney can help you identify and claim all damages owed to you.

Understanding Pedestrian Accident Settlements

Pedestrian accident settlements aim to provide fair compensation for the victim’s injuries, financial losses, and emotional suffering. These settlements consider both economic and non-economic damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

Statistics reveal the gravity of pedestrian accidents. For instance, the NHTSA reports that pedestrians accounted for 18% of all traffic fatalities in the United States in 2022, with urban areas like Laredo often experiencing higher rates due to congested roadways and heavy traffic. These alarming numbers emphasize the importance of accurately estimating your losses when seeking a settlement.

 

Losses Not to Ignore in a Pedestrian Accident Settlement

Future Medical Expenses

While immediate medical costs are often claimed, ongoing expenses are easily overlooked. Future medical care, such as therapy, surgeries, and medication, can place a heavy financial burden on victims if not factored into the settlement.

Diminished Earning Capacity

Accidents may force victims to reduce work hours, change jobs, or leave the workforce entirely. Many settlements account for current lost wages but fail to include the impact of reduced earning potential over time.

Pain and Suffering

Emotional distress and physical pain are non-economic damages often undervalued in pedestrian accident settlements. These damages recognize the mental health struggles and reduced quality of life many victims face after an accident.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Pedestrian accidents can permanently alter a victim’s lifestyle. For instance, someone may need to install mobility aids in their home, purchase specialized equipment, or rely on caregivers, all of which come with significant costs.

Property Damage

Items such as phones, glasses, or other personal belongings damaged during the accident are often excluded from settlements. Including these losses ensures comprehensive compensation.

Legal Costs

While some attorneys work on a contingency basis, victims must consider additional legal expenses, such as filing fees and court costs, which may reduce the final settlement amount.

Wrongful Death Costs

If a pedestrian accident results in a fatality, families can file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. These losses are significant but are sometimes underestimated during settlement calculations.

Bottom Line

Pedestrian accident settlements should reflect all damages-visible and hidden-to ensure victims are adequately compensated for their losses. Overlooking key damages such as future medical expenses, diminished earning capacity, and emotional suffering can leave victims financially and emotionally burdened.

To avoid these pitfalls, consult a pedestrian accident attorney who understands the complexities of pedestrian accident cases and can advocate for your full compensation. By doing so, you can secure a settlement that truly accounts for all aspects of your recovery and well-being.