What Do You Do If You’ve Been Hit by a Car?
If you are a pedestrian who has been hit by a vehicle, there is a very good chance that you have been injured. In any pedestrian versus vehicle accident, it is usually the pedestrian who sustains injuries. An accident can also put you in a state of shock. However, if you know what to do in the event of a pedestrian accident and are prepared for that eventuality, you will likely take the right steps and perform the appropriate actions in the event of a pedestrian accident. Here are a few crucial steps to take soon after you have been hit by a vehicle.
- Call the police. It is extremely important to have a police report made. If you are injured in the accident, let the police know immediately. Provide honest answers to questions posed by the responding officers. If you don't feel right or are in pain, let them know that you need medical attention right away. Do not admit fault. Please remember that any statements you make to the police can be used against you. If you feel dazed or confused, it is better to avoid talking and seek medical treatment immediately.
- Exchange information. You will want the name, contact information and insurance details from the driver of the vehicle. If there are any witnesses to the accident, you should get their contact information as well.
- Stay put. Make sure you stay at the scene of the accident until help arrives. You do not want to move around if you’ve been injured. Even if you think you are feeling OK, you should make absolutely sure that you haven't been injured. Most injuries surface hours or even days after an accident.
- Take photos. Nothing captures a scene like a photo. Take as many photos as you can of the accident scene including where you were walking, traffic lights, crosswalks and position of the vehicle that hit you. Even if you don't have a camera, use your cell phone camera to take as many pictures as you can.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you aren’t sure if you are hurt, see a professional. Whiplash, back and neck injuries can take time to manifest. If not treated, these injuries can get worse. If you do not seek medical attention promptly and your injuries worsen, you may be faulted later for not seeking treatment soon enough. This may lead to the value of your claim being reduced.
- Limit what you say. You do not want to make any statements on record. Do not discuss your case with an insurance company before talking to a personal injury lawyer.
- Retain a personal injury lawyer. Being involved in an accident means dealing with insurance companies. These are seasoned professionals who have been trained to reduce the value of your claim. You need an experienced and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer on your side, who will fight for your rights and look out for your best interests.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, please contact a Washington pedestrian accident lawyer with The Bernard Law Group, who has the knowledge, experience and the resources to handle your case successfully and help you secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
IF YOU, OR A LOVED ONE, HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED AS A RESULT OF A WASHINGTON PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENT - CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!
