Injured While Walking? What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you frequently commute by walking, you know the importance of obeying traffic rules for pedestrians, such as crossing the street at designated crosswalks only, and waiting for your signal to cross the road with the flow of traffic. However, even when pedestrians are taking extreme caution to follow all the rules, it is still entirely possible to be a victim of a pedestrian accident. Victims of pedestrian accidents, especially hit-and-runs, need to know what to do in the aftermath of being hit by a car. Whether or not the motorist is at fault, he or she has the responsibility to yield to all pedestrians. If you find yourself a victim of a pedestrian accident, here are the steps you should take immediately following the incident.
Contact Police
Regardless of the severity of your pedestrian accident, it is important to notify the police and file an accident report as soon as possible. Even if you think you are not injured at the scene of the incident, it is possible for injuries related to the pedestrian accident to surface days or even weeks after you were struck by the vehicle. Filing a police report will help protect you if you need an attorney to help you recover damages or file insurance claims for medical expenses.
Collect Driver Information
Much like an auto accident involving two cars, a pedestrian accident requires an exchange of contact and insurance policy information. This will help you file a claim with the insurance company so you can receive benefit payments for your injuries. If you are unable to collect the motorist’s information- for example, if you are a hit-and-run victim- try to collect the information of eyewitnesses to the accident so they can corroborate the events of the pedestrian accident if the case goes to court.
Call an Attorney
Being hit by a car is a serious event- make sure to cover all of your bases by retaining a reputable and experienced attorney at your earliest convenience. Your personal injury lawyer will advise you on the next steps to take so that you can collect insurance payments to help offset the costs incurred by your accident. This may include medical bills as well as any other financial obligations you have if you are no longer able to work. Your attorney can help you navigate the sometimes tricky legal process and provide counsel and representation to get you the benefits you deserve.
Morgan Law Firm specializes in pedestrian accident claims in both the Salt Lake City, UT and Boise, ID areas. Experienced personal injury attorney David L. Morgan will fight for your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome following your pedestrian accident. Call Morgan Law Firm today at 208-789-2098 to schedule your initial no-cost consultation with David L. Morgan and take the first step towards getting your life back on track!
