South Florida Injury Attorneys Blog
Picture this: you’re walking down the street, minding your own business, when suddenly, out of nowhere, a car comes barreling towards you. Before you know it, you’ve been hit. It’s a terrifying and life-altering experience that no one ever wants to go through. But unfortunately, accidents happen.
In these moments of chaos and confusion, knowing what steps to take to protect yourself and ensure that justice is served is crucial. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on what to do if you’re ever unfortunate enough to find yourself in such a situation.
So, whether you’re a pedestrian who has been hit by a car or someone looking for advice on how best to support someone in need, read on as we break down the essential actions and precautions you should take after being involved in such an incident. Your health and well-being are our top priority – let’s get started!
Seek Medical Attention
The most crucial step after a pedestrian-car accident is prioritizing your health and safety. If you have sustained any injuries, seeking immediate medical attention is imperative. Don’t hesitate to call for emergency assistance immediately or ask someone nearby to do so. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to receiving proper medical care.
In situations like these, every second counts, so don’t delay getting the help you need. Even if your injuries are minor or don’t immediately appear severe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly.
By seeking medical attention immediately, you can ensure that any hidden injuries are detected and treated promptly and establish an official record of the incident, which may be helpful during insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Stay at the Scene
When a pedestrian is hit by a car, staying at the accident scene is crucial. It may be tempting to flee out of fear or confusion, but it’s important to remember that remaining at the location is not only responsible but also required by law in most cases.
By staying at the accident scene, you provide vital information and assistance to the authorities and potential witnesses. This will help establish an accurate account of what happened and ensure justice can be served. Additionally, leaving could result in legal consequences, such as being charged with hit-and-run.
While waiting for the authorities to arrive, try your best to stay calm and composed. Use this time to assess your injuries and check if anyone else involved needs medical attention. Remember that seeking immediate medical assistance should always be your top priority.
Move to Safety
If you are involved in a pedestrian accident, your first instinct should be to prioritize your safety. Once the initial impact has occurred, assess whether you are still in danger of further injury or being hit by other vehicles. If it is safe and physically possible for you to move, try to make your way toward a safer location away from the road.
Moving to safety can help prevent any additional harm due to traffic or other hazards. Aim for the sidewalk if it’s nearby, or seek refuge on the side of the road where you are less likely to be struck again. Remember, though, only attempt this if you can without causing further harm to yourself.
Exchange Information
If you’ve been hit by a car as a pedestrian, one of the crucial steps to take after ensuring your safety is exchanging information with the driver involved. This includes obtaining their contact details and insurance information. Doing so gives you the necessary information for potential legal actions or insurance claims that may arise due to the accident.
In addition to gathering the driver’s information, contacting witnesses who saw the incident unfold is important. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony regarding what happened and help support your case if needed. Ensure to obtain their contact details, as their statements could be critical in establishing fault and liability.
Take Photos and Notes
After a pedestrian has been hit by a car, gathering as much evidence as possible is crucial. One of the most important steps is taking photos of the accident scene, including any visible injuries and damage to vehicles involved. These photos can provide valuable documentation for insurance claims or potential legal actions. If you can access a smartphone or camera, take clear, detailed pictures from different angles.
In addition to photographs, it’s essential to write down all the details about the incident while they are fresh in your memory. Include information such as the accident’s date, location, weather conditions, and any factors contributing to the collision. Also, note down contact information for witnesses who saw what happened – their statements could be vital in determining fault.
File a Police Report
After a pedestrian accident, it’s crucial to file a police report. This step is often overlooked, but it’s essential for insurance claims and potential legal actions. So don’t delay – pick up the phone and call the police right away.
When you contact the authorities, please provide them with all the details about the accident. They will document everything in an official police report, which can serve as valuable evidence during subsequent legal proceedings or insurance negotiations.
Remember that injuries may take time to manifest fully, even if you initially feel fine after the accident. By filing a police report immediately, you protect your rights and ensure you have documentation of what occurred should complications arise later.
Seek Legal Advice
After a pedestrian is hit by a car, seeking legal advice is crucial. Consulting with a personal injury attorney specializing in pedestrian accidents can help you understand your rights and explore potential legal options.
A knowledgeable attorney will guide you through the complex process of filing a claim or pursuing compensation for your injuries. They can assess the accident’s circumstances, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Having an experienced lawyer by your side ensures you receive proper representation and protection throughout the legal proceedings. They will advocate for your best interests and fight to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Notify Insurance Company
Informing your insurance company about the accident is a crucial step, regardless of whether you were the driver involved or not. Doing this as soon as possible ensures that any necessary claims can be filed promptly. Even if you were just a pedestrian and not operating a vehicle, notifying your insurance company allows them to be aware of the situation and provide guidance on how to proceed.
Insurance companies often have specific protocols for handling accidents involving pedestrians. By informing them early on, you can ensure all necessary documentation is provided, and any potential compensation for medical expenses or other damages can be pursued. Remember to provide accurate details about the accident, including any injuries sustained, so your insurer has all the information needed to process your claim efficiently.
Contact a Pompano Beach Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
If you have been involved in a pedestrian accident in Pompano Beach, Florida, you must contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer serving Pompano Beach. At Frankl Kominsky, we understand the challenges and complexities that can arise when you’re involved in a pedestrian accident. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need during this difficult time.
By contacting our firm, you can access skilled attorneys who will fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process. We will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent your best interests in court if necessary.
To get started on your case today, call us at (561) 800-8000 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Let us handle the legal aspects of your situation so that you can focus on healing and moving forward.