As Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends and days grow shorter, the risks of pedestrian accidents increase. Pennsylvania, with its busy streets and unpredictable weather, sees a rise in pedestrian collisions during this time of year. Pedestrian accident victims often face immense financial pressure due to medical bills and lost wages. This blog explores how litigation funding can provide crucial financial support to those affected, allowing victims to focus on recovery while pursuing justice.
The Transition from Daylight Saving Time: A Major Risk Factor for Pedestrians 
As the clocks roll back and we transition from Daylight Saving Time, the sudden shift in daylight hours presents a new set of challenges. The early sunsets mean more pedestrians are walking in low-visibility conditions during peak traffic hours. For those who walk or commute on foot, this time of year is especially dangerous. Research has shown that pedestrian accidents tend to increase following the end of DST, as the darkness combined with driver distraction or fatigue leads to more collisions.
This time of year is marked by shorter days, more inclement weather, and a general increase in pedestrian traffic due to the holiday season. Whether it’s walking home from work or navigating through a busy shopping area, the end of DST significantly raises the chances of pedestrian-related accidents.
How the Shift in Time Affects Pedestrian Safety in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, pedestrian safety is a growing concern, especially during the fall and winter months when DST ends. The state sees an uptick in pedestrian accidents during these times, particularly in urban areas like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Allentown. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), pedestrian fatalities tend to peak in the evening hours when many pedestrians are trying to cross streets in the fading light.
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There are several factors contributing to the increased risk:
- Reduced Visibility: Pedestrians and drivers alike struggle with visibility as daylight fades earlier in the day.
- Increased Foot Traffic: As the holidays approach, more pedestrians are out walking for shopping, holiday parties, and travel.
- Weather Conditions: Winter weather, including rain, snow, and ice, complicates driving and walking conditions, adding to the risk of accidents.
With these challenges in mind, it’s crucial to understand what options are available to pedestrian accident victims in Pennsylvania.
Understanding Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits and the Role of Litigation Funding
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, brain trauma, and in some tragic cases, fatalities. Unfortunately, recovering from such injuries can be a financial burden on victims and their families. Medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages add up quickly, creating an overwhelming financial strain.
To mitigate this, many individuals turn to litigation funding, which provides cash advances to help cover immediate expenses while waiting for a lawsuit to settle or go to trial. But what is litigation funding, and how can it help pedestrians in Pennsylvania who have been involved in an accident?
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What is Litigation Funding?
Litigation funding is a financial tool that allows plaintiffs in personal injury lawsuits to receive a cash advance before their case settles. This money can be used to pay medical bills, cover daily living expenses, and even fund additional legal costs. The key advantage is that litigation funding is non-recourse—meaning that if the plaintiff loses their case, they do not have to repay the advance.
For pedestrian accident victims in Pennsylvania, litigation funding can be a lifeline. It helps cover the costs of medical care, rehabilitation, and everyday living while waiting for a legal resolution. Whether it’s a few months or several years, this type of financial assistance can be invaluable during a long legal process.
How Pedestrian Accident Lawsuits Are Funded in Pennsylvania
Pedestrian accident lawsuits involve numerous factors, including proving negligence, determining fault, and calculating damages. In Pennsylvania, the plaintiff must prove that the driver was negligent or reckless in a way that caused the accident. Victims who are facing significant injuries may be unable to return to work, compounding the financial challenges. That’s where litigation funding becomes particularly useful.
- The Process of Applying for Litigation Funding
- Step 1: Apply for Funding: Pedestrian accident victims typically work with their attorney to apply for litigation funding. The process involves filling out a simple application detailing the specifics of the case and the injury.
- Step 2: Case Review: The funding provider will assess the merits of the case by reviewing medical records, the police report, and the legal team’s assessment of the case.
- Step 3: Approval and Disbursement: Once the case is approved, the plaintiff will receive a cash advance. The funds can be used immediately for anything from medical bills to mortgage payments.
- Step 4: Repayment Upon Settlement or Verdict: Repayment is only due once the case is settled or a verdict is reached. If the case is lost, the funds do not need to be repaid.
- What You Need to Know About Litigation Funding in Pennsylvania
- Non-Recourse: One of the main benefits of litigation funding is that it is non-recourse. If the pedestrian accident victim’s case does not result in a settlement or favorable verdict, they do not have to repay the funding.
- Speed of Access: Litigation funding provides quick access to financial support, helping to alleviate immediate concerns about paying for treatment and other essential expenses.
- No Credit Check: Unlike traditional loans, litigation funding does not require a credit check. This makes it accessible to people with bad credit who might not qualify for other types of financing.
Why Litigation Funding Is Essential for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accidents often lead to injuries that require long-term treatment and rehabilitation. The financial toll of such accidents can leave victims in a precarious position, especially when the case may take months or years to reach a conclusion. Litigation funding ensures that victims are not forced into a rushed settlement just to cover their expenses.
- Avoid Settling Too Early: Without funding, plaintiffs may feel the pressure to accept lower settlement offers just to pay their bills. Litigation funding gives plaintiffs the freedom to wait for the best possible outcome.
- Financial Flexibility: It provides the financial flexibility necessary for pedestrian accident victims to maintain a standard of living while fighting for fair compensation.
How Fast Funds, Inc. Can Help Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Victims
Fast Funds, Inc. specializes in providing litigation funding to victims of pedestrian accidents in Pennsylvania. Whether you are dealing with mounting medical bills or struggling to make ends meet during your recovery, Fast Funds offers a fast, simple application process to get you the support you need.
Steps to Apply for Funding Through Fast Funds, Inc.
- Start with a Free Consultation: Contact Fast Funds, Inc. for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain the funding process, and determine whether you qualify for funding.
- Complete the Application: Work with your attorney to submit an application for funding. The application process is quick and straightforward.
- Get Approved and Receive Funds: Once approved, the funds will be disbursed to help you cover medical bills, lost wages, and other necessary expenses.
As Daylight Saving Time ends, pedestrian accidents become more frequent, leading to higher risks for those walking on Pennsylvania’s streets. Pedestrian accident victims face not only physical challenges but financial struggles as well. Litigation funding offers a financial lifeline, allowing victims to navigate the legal process without worrying about how to pay for medical treatment, living expenses, or other costs. Fast Funds, Inc. is here to help you secure the funding you need to focus on your recovery and your case. Contact us today to learn more.