Being hit by a car is a terrifying experience. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to understand the steps you need to take immediately after the accident to protect your health, your legal rights, and your future well-being. Staying as calm as possible can make a difference, even when the chaos around you feels overwhelming.
Contact an Attorney and Notify Insurance Companies
Navigating the legal aftermath of being hit by a car can be complex, especially if there are questions about liability or insurance coverage. Contact a personal injury attorney like those at https://westcoasttriallawyers.com/los-angeles-pedestrian-accident-lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents. A lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and help you seek the compensation you may be entitled to for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Even if you were the pedestrian, notifying your own insurance company can be important. Some insurance policies, such as personal injury protection, might cover certain medical expenses. Provide them with all relevant information, including the accident report and the contact details of any involved parties. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing anything without consulting your lawyer.
It’s important to be cautious in conversations with the driver’s insurance. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting a quick settlement. Having an attorney by your side will help ensure that your communication with the insurance company protects your interests.
Prioritize Your Immediate Safety and Medical Attention
If you’re conscious and able to move, your priority should be to get to a safe area away from the road.
Moving out of harm’s way can prevent further injury from oncoming vehicles or roadside dangers. If you feel pain or suspect a serious injury, try to remain still and wait for help to arrive.
Assess Your Injuries
It’s common for adrenaline to mask the pain of an injury right after an accident. Take a moment to assess yourself thoroughly. Look for any obvious wounds, broken bones, or areas of swelling. If you experience dizziness, blurred vision, or confusion, stay put and signal for help. Even if you don’t notice visible injuries, it’s essential to treat the situation seriously, as internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
Call for Medical Assistance
Whether you feel severely injured or just slightly shaken, calling for emergency medical services is crucial. Let medical professionals evaluate your condition on-site. If you are unable to call yourself, ask someone nearby to do so. Accepting transportation to the hospital could be life-saving, especially if there are internal injuries you might not be aware of.
Notify Authorities and Collect Evidence
The police will come to the scene, gather evidence, and create an accident report, which could play a critical role in any insurance claims or legal actions. Even if the driver who hit you attempts to leave the scene or insists it’s not necessary to call the police, you should still report the incident.
Provide an Accurate Statement
When giving your statement, stick to the facts as you remember them. Avoid making assumptions or assigning blame – just describe what happened in as much detail as you can.
If you’re unsure about specific details, it’s better to say so rather than make guesses. The report will also record the driver’s information, which can be helpful later.
Document the Scene
If you’re physically capable, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Capture details such as the car that hit you, the surrounding area, and any traffic signs. Documenting these details immediately can provide critical evidence for proving liability later. Also, try to gather contact information from any witnesses present – their statements can support your version of events.
Seek Comprehensive Medical Evaluation
Even if you’re discharged from the scene without needing emergency care, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible. Delayed injuries, like concussions, whiplash, or internal damage, can take hours or even days to present symptoms. A thorough medical evaluation will help identify these issues before they become serious.
Follow Up on Prescribed Treatments
Following your doctor’s instructions is not only crucial for your recovery but also for any potential legal claims. Keep records of all your treatments, prescribed medications, and medical appointments.
These records are important evidence that shows the extent of your injuries and the impact the accident has had on your health.
Monitor for Ongoing Symptoms
In the days and weeks following the accident, be mindful of any changes in your physical or mental health. Symptoms like headaches, fatigue, anxiety, or emotional distress can develop after the initial shock subsides. If you notice anything unusual, return to your doctor for a re-evaluation. Taking care of both your physical and mental health is essential to fully recover from the experience.
The steps you take immediately after the accident can significantly influence your recovery process and your ability to seek fair compensation. Make sure to prioritize your health, contact the appropriate authorities, and seek the legal guidance you need to navigate the complex aftermath. Every action you take is a step toward regaining control of your life after this difficult experience.
