An investigation into a pedestrian knockdown case is critical. In pedestrian knockdown cases, the determination as to the liability is made by an investigation and by eyewitness testimony. Most importantly in these cases, we need to determine if the individual who was operating the car was acting in a manner outside of the normal activities of a driver.
One thing that is very important is that most vehicles have a black box, much as you would see in an airplane. In a pedestrian knockdown situation, depending on where the impact takes place, it would register on that black box. We would do an order to show cause for what we call pre-suit discovery. Pre-suit discovery allows us to preserve that information from that black box to determine what was going on at the time of the impact. This is done in motor vehicle accident cases as well where there are questions of liability. That black box will determine braking speeds, braking times, and the speed of the vehicle at the time of impact. In addition to eyewitness testimony, we get potential information coming to us from any security cameras that might be in the area.
Attorney Robert Maranto is a partner with Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC and has achieved the rating of superb on Avvo. Following an auto accident, an insurance company may try to contact you. The insurance company’s goal is simple — to minimize the cost to the insurance company. Insurance companies have little regard for the well-being of injured victims, and they will do everything possible to protect their interests — even when that means asking victims to sign documents or statements without having an attorney review them, or trying to convince victims to agree to a settlement much lower in value than they deserve.
The Buffalo Personal Injury Attorneys at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC fight for the rights of persons who are injured or disabled. We approach each case on an individual basis and personally assist each client with their unique needs. We are involved in every step of the legal process, and ensure that each case receives the time and effort necessary for success.