When a motorist hits you when you are walking, one of the scariest things—in addition to managing the injuries that you are likely facing—is wondering who will pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses. Because you were not driving at the time of the accident, does your car insurance cover your injuries? The following explores damage recovery in pedestrian accident insurance claims.
Health Insurance
Your health insurance should pay for any medical expenses up to your coverage limit. In the event that you receive a settlement amount from another insurance provider, however, you may have to pay back your health insurance company due to the laws of subrogation.
The Other Driver’s Liability Insurance
If the driver of the car that hit you carries auto insurance and he was at fault for the accident, then his auto insurance liability coverage should offer you a settlement to help pay for your losses. Georgia law requires drivers to carry $25,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person and $50,000 per accident. You should file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance to start the recovery process.
Your Own Car Insurance Company
In some cases, your own car insurance policy may kick in to pay you after a pedestrian accident. This is true if the driver who hit you was uninsured or underinsured and you happen to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage benefits you if you are the victim in a hit and run accident as well. Your own insurance will pay as well if you carry medical payments coverage. The latter type of insurance pays for your injuries when you suffer harm in an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
Note: Uninsured motorist coverage and MedPay are both optional coverages; check your policy to see if you have them.
Other Recovery Options
In addition to the insurance options listed above, you also have the right to file a lawsuit for damages directly against the at-fault party. Doing so may be in your best interest if the insurance company refuses to offer you a fair settlement or if your injuries are particularly severe.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
Being involved in a pedestrian accident is terrifying. To aid you in recovering every penny to which you are entitled, call the car accident attorneys at Brauns Law Accident Injury Lawyers, PC today. We are ready to meet with you and discuss your case today! For a free case consultation, contact our offices now at 404-418-8244.
