Pedestrian Safety - Action Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Car
As a pedestrian, safety is of the utmost importance. Strolling along the pavement or crossing a busy road carries a risk of being hit by a car.
It’s important to know what steps to take if you get hit by a car. Whether you sustain minor injuries or life-long disabilities following the accident, you may be entitled to compensation and taking the right course of action means you can get the money you deserve.
Here are some important steps to take if you’re hit by a car as a pedestrian.
Gather Details of the Accident
Obtaining the details of the driver and their vehicle is essential following an accident, including their name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate. If there are any eyewitnesses, gather their details, too.
Collecting information at the scene is crucial if you decide to claim against the driver or take legal action in court. You should also take photographs of the scene, including images of the car and your injuries. Any photos you take could be essential evidence in a court of law.
Get Treatment for Your Injuries
Whether you're noticeably injured or appear not to have any injuries at all, you should seek medical help as soon as possible after a car accident or collision. Injuries aren't always visible, and the 'hidden' internal injuries are often the most fatal.
Find your nearest Emergency Department to seek specialist medical attention. Doctors in the ED will perform physical examinations, scans, and blood tests to identify your injuries and determine their extent. After this, they'll provide the necessary treatments or therapies to treat your injuries and minimize long-term consequences.
Get in Touch With a Licensed Lawyer
After gathering details at the accident scene and getting treatment for any injuries you have sustained, you will need to contact a lawyer. Speak to one of the expert Lamber Goodnow Injury Lawyers in Phoenix or your local area so you can get legal guidance.
Your lawyer will work closely with you to gather the details of the accident. They will assess your case, including all of the evidence and documentation you’ve collected yourself.
Your compensation payout will depend on the extent of your injuries, the type and value of the car involved, and the insurance policies of you and the driver.
If necessary, your lawyer will represent you in court to win your case and maximize your settlement amount. They may need to liaise with the police, insurance providers, and eyewitnesses to complete your case before filing a claim.
Avoid Admitting or Discussing Fault
Throughout the entire claims process, you must avoid making any statements that could question your innocence.
Try not to discuss fault, admit guilt, or push the blame onto people without clear evidence, especially to insurance providers or the driver of the vehicle. It's best to keep quiet and allow your lawyer to handle communications.
