Pedestrian accidents can be traumatic and overwhelming. In the immediate aftermath, it’s essential to know the right steps to take to protect your health and well-being while also safeguarding your legal rights. Whether you’ve been injured or witnessed a pedestrian accident, staying calm and following these key steps can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Your first priority should be to assess any injuries. Even if you feel fine, the adrenaline and shock from the incident can mask pain or injuries that may not appear right away. Common injuries include fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries, all of which require medical attention.
If you’re able, move to a safe location away from traffic. However, avoid moving too much if you suspect serious injuries like broken bones or head trauma, as this could make things worse. Call 911 immediately, or ask someone else to do so if you’re unable.
Paramedics will arrive to assess your condition and provide necessary care. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional to prevent complications later.
Call the Police
After ensuring medical help is on the way, it’s important to contact law enforcement. The police will come to the scene, document the surroundings, and create an official report. This report is critical for any insurance claims or potential legal action you may need to take later.
When speaking with the police, provide accurate and detailed information about what happened, but avoid speculating or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. If you’re unsure about certain details, it’s okay to say so.
Gather Information
If you’re physically able, collect as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. This will be vital when filing an insurance claim or seeking compensation for your injuries. Here’s what you should gather:
- Driver’s information: Get the name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information of the driver involved.
- Witnesses: If there were any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their testimony could help strengthen your case.
- Photos and videos: Take pictures or videos of the scene, including the vehicle, any visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and anything else that might help establish the cause.
- License plate and vehicle details: Write down or take a picture of the vehicle’s license plate number, make, model, and color.
This information will help your attorney and insurance company build a strong case on your behalf.
Avoid Admitting Fault
In the chaotic moments following an accident, it’s easy to say something out of politeness or reflex, such as “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you.” However, these types of statements can be used against you later on. Even if you believe you may have been partially responsible, it’s crucial to avoid admitting fault on the spot. Let the police and insurance investigators determine what happened based on the facts.
Seek Legal Guidance
After an accident of this nature, one of the smartest things you can do is consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Many people are tempted to handle insurance claims on their own, but having an attorney by your side ensures that your case is taken seriously and that you receive the maximum compensation available to you.
Keep Detailed Records
After the accident, keep meticulous records of everything related to your injuries and the impact on your daily life. This includes:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Time off work and lost wages
- Communications with insurance companies
- Pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced
These records are crucial when seeking compensation for your injuries, as they document the full extent of the accident’s impact on your life.
Follow Medical Advice
After the accident, be sure to follow any medical advice you receive. This includes attending follow-up appointments, adhering to treatment plans, and participating in any required physical therapy or rehabilitation. Failing to follow medical advice could hurt your claim, as it may be interpreted as a lack of commitment to your recovery.
From Gathering Information to Seeking a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The moments following a pedestrian accident are critical, both for your health and your ability to seek justice. By staying calm, seeking medical attention, gathering information, and consulting with an attorney, you can protect your rights and take the necessary steps toward recovery. Remember, prioritizing your health and well-being is essential, but ensuring that you have the proper legal and medical support will help you move forward.