8 Critical Steps To Take After Being Involved In A Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents can be traumatizing and overwhelming experiences. Whether you were hit by a vehicle or you witnessed someone else get hit, it’s important to know what to do in the aftermath. Neglecting to take certain critical steps can hinder your ability to receive compensation for damages and injuries sustained. In this article, we’ll discuss eight essential steps to take after being involved in a pedestrian accident, so you can protect yourself and your legal rights.

After being involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to take these 8 critical steps: 1) Seek medical attention 2) Contact the police 3) Document the scene 4) Gather witness information 5) Notify your insurance company 6) Consult with a personal injury lawyer 7) Follow your doctor’s instructions 8) Keep track of expenses and damages.

8 Critical Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Pedestrian Accident

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. It can leave you feeling shaken and unsure of what to do next. However, taking the right steps after an accident can make all the difference in protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are eight critical steps to take after being involved in a pedestrian accident.

1. Seek Medical Attention

The first and most important step to take after being involved in a pedestrian accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure that you haven’t sustained any internal injuries. If you do have injuries, getting medical attention right away can help prevent them from getting worse and can also provide valuable evidence for your case.

If you’re unable to move, ask someone to call an ambulance. If you can move, try to get to a hospital or urgent care facility as soon as possible.

2. Call the Police

The next step is to call the police. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to document the incident and get an official report. The police can also help control traffic and ensure that you’re safe from further harm. When the police arrive, give them a detailed account of what happened and provide any evidence you have, such as photos or witness statements.

3. Gather Information

While you wait for the police to arrive, gather as much information as you can about the accident. This includes the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information as well. Take photos of the scene, including any damage to your clothing or belongings.

4. File an Insurance Claim

After the accident, you’ll need to file an insurance claim to receive compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact the driver’s insurance company and provide them with the necessary information, including the police report and any medical bills. Be sure to keep detailed records of all communication with the insurance company.

5. Consult with an Attorney

If you sustained serious injuries or the driver’s insurance company is denying your claim, it may be necessary to consult with an attorney. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. They can also help you negotiate with the insurance company and represent you in court if necessary.

6. Keep Detailed Records

Throughout the process, it’s important to keep detailed records of everything related to the accident. This includes medical bills, insurance claims, and any communication with the driver or their insurance company. These records can help you build a strong case and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

7. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

If you were injured in the accident, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all necessary appointments. This not only ensures that you recover fully from your injuries but also provides valuable evidence for your case. If you don’t follow your doctor’s orders, the insurance company may argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim.

8. Don’t Admit Fault

Finally, it’s crucial not to admit fault after the accident. Even if you think you may have contributed to the accident, don’t admit fault to the driver or the police. Admitting fault can hurt your case and make it more difficult to receive compensation for your injuries and damages.

In conclusion, being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a frightening experience, but taking the right steps can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. By following these eight critical steps, you can take control of the situation and start the road to recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after being involved in a pedestrian accident?

After being involved in a pedestrian accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline and shock can mask injuries. Call 911 or ask someone else to call for you if you are unable. If possible, move to a safe area away from traffic and wait for emergency services to arrive. If you are able, take photos of the accident scene and get contact information from any witnesses.

Once you have received medical attention, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents. They can help guide you through the process of dealing with insurance companies and seeking compensation for any injuries or damages sustained in the accident.

What information should I gather after a pedestrian accident?

After a pedestrian accident, it is important to gather as much information as possible. This includes the name, contact information, and insurance information of the driver involved in the accident, as well as any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles and any injuries sustained. It is also important to make note of the time and location of the accident, as well as any weather or road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.

If you are unable to gather this information yourself, ask a trusted friend or family member to assist you. Additionally, a personal injury attorney can help you obtain the necessary information and documentation to support your case.

What should I do if the driver who hit me flees the scene?

If the driver who hit you flees the scene of the accident, try to remember as many details about the vehicle and driver as possible. This includes the make and model of the car, the license plate number, and any distinguishing features of the driver. Call 911 immediately to report the hit-and-run accident and provide as much information as possible to the police.

Additionally, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional, as injuries can sometimes take time to manifest.

What should I expect when dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident?

Dealing with insurance companies after a pedestrian accident can be challenging. Insurance adjusters may try to settle your claim quickly and for a lower amount than you deserve. It is important to remember that insurance companies are not on your side and their goal is to minimize payouts.

To ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages, it is important to work with a personal injury attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents. They can negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf and help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident?

The amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim after a pedestrian accident varies by state. In some cases, you may have as little as one year to file a claim, while in other states you may have up to three years. It is important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines.

Additionally, the sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner they can begin the process of gathering evidence and building your case. This can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

In conclusion, being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. However, it is important to remember that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights. By following the eight critical steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you receive the medical attention you need, gather important evidence, and seek legal assistance if necessary.

Remember, seeking medical attention should always be your first priority. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it is important to get a medical evaluation to ensure that there are no hidden injuries. Additionally, be sure to gather as much evidence as possible, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and police reports.

Finally, consider consulting with a personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. With the right guidance and support, you can recover from your injuries and move forward with your life.