You were just out on the street or sidewalk, minding your own business, when out of nowhere, you were struck by a vehicle. While obviously the first major concern in this situation is to get medical assistance if needed, something that is almost as important is making sure that you preserve your legal rights. The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be a stressful time but it's important to try and remain calm and take a measured approach to how you respond to the incident. Here are three things you should make sure you do in the immediate aftermath of getting struck by a car as a pedestrian.
Call the Police Immediately
Even if the person that hit you offers up their information and apologizes for the accident, you will still want to get something official on the record. Individuals can suddenly change their story once insurance companies get involved. By calling the police after you are hit, you can ensure at the very least that your own side of the story will be preserved for the record. If the other driver refuses to stay or drives off, attempt to memorize their license plate number.
Attempt to Obtain Witness Information
Make note of where you are immediately after being hit. Even if there aren't any other people in the immediate vicinity, perhaps there is a business nearby where someone could have seen what happened out the window. You clearly don't want to start going door to door for witness statements if you are hurt and you shouldn't leave the scene of the accident until help arrives anyway. But you can at least memorize things like time of day and the street you are on so that you or your attorney can return later and attempt to question anyone that might be in the area or obtain security camera footage from a local business.
Don't Admit To Anything
Keep your conversation with the person that hit you to a minimum. Don't attempt to explain why you were crossing the street or make any other kind of statement about your actions. You don't have to respond if the driver starts questioning you. If the driver's insurance company calls you later that day or week, consider delaying a statement until after you talk to an attorney.
The immediate aftermath of a car accident is always stressful but it can be especially traumatic if you are hit as a pedestrian. If you find yourself in this situation, try to keep your wits about you. Contact the police and attempt to secure any nearby witnesses if you can. Most importantly, don't make any statements to the other driver or insurance company or you could risk losing your legal rights. Contact a pedestrian accident attorney today for more information. Visit http://www.danielgoodmanlaw.com for more information.
