by Contributor
(Jun. 1, 2022) — If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to know what to do to protect yourself and get the help you need. Keep reading to find out!
If you are ever involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to know what to do. Pedestrian accidents can happen anywhere – on sidewalks, parking lots, or even on the street. And they can be severe – resulting in injuries or even death.
So, what should you do if you are involved in a pedestrian accident? Here are ten steps to take:
1. Check for Injuries
Injuries are the first priority after a pedestrian accident. If you are able, check yourself for injuries, and then check the pedestrian who was hit. There are a few key things to look for, including:
- Head injuries: Head injuries are some of the most severe injuries in a pedestrian accident. Look for signs of bleeding or an obvious injury to the head.
- Neck and back injuries. These types of injuries can be excruciating and can result in long-term problems: Look for signs of pain or any obvious injuries.
- Broken bones: Broken bones can be extremely painful and can take a long time to heal. Look for signs of deformity or an obvious injury to the bone.
2. Call 911
If there are any injuries, it’s important to call 911 right away. The sooner emergency medical help arrives, the better.
If you are able to, try to provide some basic information to the 911 operator about the accident. This includes the location of the accident, the number of pedestrians involved, and any visible injuries.
3. Move to a Safe Location
Once you have called 911, it’s important to move to a safe location. This is especially important if the accident happens in the middle of the street.
If you can, move yourself and the pedestrian to the side of the road. If you can’t move, try to wave down passing cars, so they can avoid hitting you.
4. Exchange Information
Once you are in a safe location, it’s time to exchange information with the driver who hit the pedestrian. You will need their name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number.
It’s also important to get the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. These witnesses can provide valuable testimony if there is a legal case later on.
5. Take Pictures
If you have a camera or smartphone, take pictures of the accident scene. These pictures can be helpful later on if there is a legal case.
Pictures should include the location of the accident, the damage to the vehicles, and any injuries. If there is any skid marks on the road, don’t forget to take pictures of that as well.
6. Get a Police Report
It’s important to get a police report after a pedestrian accident. The police report can be extremely helpful if there is a legal case later on.
To get a police report, you will need to file a formal complaint with the police department. The police department will then investigate the accident and provide a written report.
7. See a Doctor
It’s important to see a doctor after a pedestrian accident, even if you don’t think you are injured. Often, injuries from an accident can take days or even weeks to appear.
If you wait too long to see a doctor, it can be difficult to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. So, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
8. Contact an Attorney
If you or the pedestrian were seriously injured in the accident, it’s essential to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
A lawyer can also deal with the insurance companies and help you navigate the legal process. If you face a long recovery, an attorney can be a valuable ally.
9. File an Insurance Claim
Filing an insurance claim is often the most challenging part of the process after a pedestrian accident. Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with, and they will do everything they can to minimize the amount they have to pay out.
The best way to deal with insurance companies is to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
10. Take Legal Action
If the driver who hit the pedestrian is found to be at fault, you may be able to take legal action against them. This legal action can include filing a personal injury lawsuit.
A lawsuit can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. It can also hold the driver accountable for their actions.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s essential to know what to do to protect your rights. Follow the steps above to ensure you get the help you need.