Being involved in any type of accident can be a terrifying experience, but it is especially true if you are a pedestrian who was struck by a car, bicycle, or some other vehicle. Whether you were seriously injured or only sustained a couple of scratches, an accident like this can leave you dazed and overwhelmed. Understanding what to do after being involved in a pedestrian accident is critical and can have a significant impact on your recovery and your legal rights. To learn more and secure skilled representation during your case, reach out to a Washington D.C. pedestrian accident lawyer today.
What is a Pedestrian Accident?
A pedestrian accident occurs when a person traveling on foot or not in a vehicle is hit by a car, bicycle, or some other type of force. Pedestrians can include any person walking, jogging, using a wheelchair, or standing near a road, crossing the street, or in a high-traffic area.
These accidents can be particularly dangerous as pedestrians have no physical barrier between themselves and the vehicle or road. A collision with even a slow-moving vehicle could cause significant damage.
What Should I Do After Being Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?
Immediately following a pedestrian accident, your safety should be your first concern. If you are able to move, get to a safe location away from the street and traffic. Call 911 and request the help of law enforcement and emergency medical services. You could also go to the hospital or a doctor later on, but either way, it is imperative that you are medically evaluated and treated. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately visible or noticeable, so it is crucial that you seek medical treatment.
Once the police arrive, provide a statement about what happened. Be honest and clear, but be careful with your words. Do not guess what happened or speculate about the situation. Also, avoid admitting fault. It may be tempting to be polite and say “I’m sorry” or “I should have been more careful,” but your words can be used against you, so speak with caution.
If your injuries allow it, take some time to collect evidence after the accident. Take photos of your visible injuries, the vehicles involved, the scene of the accident, traffic signs, and anything else that may be relevant. You should also exchange information with the other people involved, like names, contact details, license plate numbers, insurance providers, etc.
In the days and weeks following the accident, document everything related to the incident, like your medical records, bills, treatment, how the injury has affected you, and more. Consult with a personal injury lawyer to get information on your legal rights and options, and use their help to notify your insurance company about the accident. Your policy may cover injuries from pedestrian accidents.
Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC for a free consultation today.