Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, often leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional distress, and significant financial burdens. Knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident can greatly affect the outcome of your case and ensure that your rights are protected. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do after a pedestrian accident, from securing your safety to seeking legal representation.
1. Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
The first priority after a pedestrian accident is to ensure your safety. If you are able to move, try to get out of the way of traffic to prevent further injury. Even if you don’t feel severely injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, such as internal injuries or whiplash, may not be apparent right away. Visiting a healthcare professional will help identify any hidden injuries, and it will also create a medical record that connects your injuries to the accident, which is critical for your legal case.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Always call 911 after a pedestrian accident. This will ensure that emergency medical services are dispatched, and it will also result in a police report, which is an essential document for your case. When law enforcement arrives, give them a detailed account of what happened, but avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misconstrued. Let the police do their job of investigating the accident and documenting the scene. Make sure to ask for the officer’s name and badge number for future reference.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, take steps to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. This may include taking photos of the accident location, your injuries, the vehicles involved, and any nearby traffic signals or street signs that could be relevant to your case. If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information so your lawyer can follow up with them later. It’s also important to obtain the driver’s insurance information and license plate number. This evidence will play a crucial role in supporting your claim.
4. Document Your Injuries and Medical Treatment
Documenting your injuries is crucial for securing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any therapy or rehabilitation you undergo. Make sure to save all receipts, bills, and any related documents. This information will help your attorney evaluate the full extent of your damages and ensure that you are compensated fairly for both immediate and future medical needs.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your own insurance company to report the accident, especially if you have health insurance or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. While your car insurance may not directly cover pedestrian accidents, your health insurance can help with immediate medical costs. Be honest but concise in describing the accident and avoid admitting fault. Your insurance company may help pay for some of your medical expenses while you await settlement, but be mindful that they may seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
6. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
One of the most important steps after a pedestrian accident is to contact a lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents or personal injury law. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensure that your rights are protected, and help you recover fair compensation for your injuries. They will handle the insurance companies, gather necessary evidence, and negotiate on your behalf. A lawyer will also assess the full value of your claim, which can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation needs. Having legal representation increases your chances of securing a higher settlement and reduces the stress of managing your case on your own.
7. Be Prepared for the Legal Process
Once you hire a lawyer, be prepared for the legal process to take time. Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with medical professionals to determine the full extent of your injuries. If the driver was at fault, your lawyer will negotiate with their insurance company to reach a fair settlement. In some cases, the case may need to go to court if a settlement cannot be reached. However, with skilled legal representation, most pedestrian accident cases settle outside of court.
8. Stay Patient and Trust the Process
It’s natural to feel frustrated or anxious about the outcome of your pedestrian accident claim, especially if you are facing mounting medical bills and lost wages. However, it’s important to stay patient and trust the legal process. Your lawyer will work diligently to ensure that your claim is handled properly and that you are compensated for all the damages you’ve experienced. While every case is unique, having an experienced pedestrian accident attorney on your side greatly increases your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Pedestrian accidents can be life-changing, but by following these steps and seeking legal representation, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Taking immediate action, gathering evidence, and consulting with a skilled attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, ensuring that you receive the justice and financial recovery you need.