Are pedestrian injuries covered by insurance in Nova Scotia?
Wondering if your car insurance will cover you if another vehicle hits you? In most cases, it will. However, you will have to check with your insurer to understand the policy limits. The Personal Injury Protection Plan, also known as Section B, covers all Nova Scotia residents who have been injured in a car accident. Compensation is granted for everyone injured regardless of who is at fault. The benefits will focus on specific economic losses with some limits and restrictions.
What are your legal options after a pedestrian accident?
When involved in a pedestrian accident, you may sustain serious injuries and your PIPP coverage may not be able to cover your medical needs due to the minimum limits. Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries like brain injuries, fractures, lost limbs, and spinal cord injuries. Victims suffer extensive medical needs not to mention the lost income, pain, and suffering. The best course of action to take would be to consult a personal injury lawyer in Nova Scotia who will help you determine your next legal steps.
Is the driver always at fault?
When a pedestrian is injured in a car accident in Nova Scotia, the driver may not be at fault. There are cases where the driver puts up a strong case and proves that he/she was following all traffic ordinances and driving safely or that the pedestrian was under the influence, jay walking or just stepped in front of the car. Such cases may reduce the amount of damages awarded to the pedestrian, but they will still be covered for their injuries through Section B coverage.
What to do if involved in a pedestrian accident
The experience of being hit by a car can be extremely traumatic. Emotions like fear and confusion will strike immediately after the collision occurs. It’s important to stay calm. Try and identify the car that hit you, it’s colour, make, model or license plate. Try to remember as much as possible about the vehicle that hit you. If you can, call the police or ask someone to assist you in calling 911. Your priority should be to get urgent medical attention. If you are injured in a car accident, the next step to take after seeking medical attention is calling a lawyer.
What happens in a hit and run accident?
If you’ve been injured in an accident where the driver of the vehicle that hit you is not identified, you may still receive compensation under your own auto insurance policy. Any injuries you suffer may be covered under the underinsured/uninsured/unidentified motorist coverage (UMC coverage – also known as Section D). Every motorist in Nova Scotia has UMC coverage which is meant to protect them when involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. However, to be rightfully compensated for your injuries, you need adequate legal representation from an experienced lawyer. After all, your insurer will prepare a strong case against you to minimize the pay-out or even deny your claim.