What Steps Should Pedestrians Take After Being Hit by a Vehicle
Being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian can lead to life-changing injuries, overwhelming medical expenses, and lasting physical and emotional pain. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, knowing what steps to take immediately afterward is important for both your safety and your ability to protect your rights. Taking action early can also help preserve critical evidence and strengthen your case if you decide to pursue compensation.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we understand the challenges and uncertainty that you face after a pedestrian accident. Our experienced Southern California pedestrian accident attorneys can walk you through the critical steps you should take to establish the foundation for a strong accident claim. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health and safety should always come first. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, adrenaline can mask the symptoms of serious internal or soft tissue injuries, and some injuries may not exhibit symptoms right away.
Once it is safe to do so, call 911 to request emergency medical assistance and an ambulance if needed. When paramedics arrive, follow their instructions and allow them to assess your condition. If they recommend transport to the hospital, do not decline.
Additionally, you should see a doctor after the accident, even if you weren’t transported to the hospital. An official medical report will confirm the extent of your injuries and can serve as critical evidence, tying your injuries directly to the accident. Being proactive about your medical care shows that you acted responsibly in addressing your injuries, which can often favorably impact your case if you decide to pursue legal action.
Step 2: Notify Law Enforcement
After a pedestrian accident, alert law enforcement as soon as it is safe to do so. A police officer will arrive at the scene to document the accident and create an official police report. This report will outline the key details about the incident, including the parties involved, the exact location, witness accounts, and any immediate violations of traffic laws.
Be clear, concise, and truthful when speaking to the officer, but avoid assigning blame or admitting fault. Even something as well-meaning as, “I didn’t see the car coming,” could be misconstrued and potentially used against you if you decide to pursue compensation. Instead, stick to the facts and make sure the officer fully understands your perspective.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you can, collect as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Evidence is a vital component of any potential legal claim. However, it's important to obtain it sooner rather than later, as evidence can be destroyed or lost over time. If you are unable to collect evidence yourself, have someone collect it on your behalf.
Take photographs or videos of the accident site, including your injuries, the vehicle that struck you, any visible traffic signs or signals, skid marks, and the weather or road conditions at the time of the accident.
Additionally, exchange information with the driver, including their full name, contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers, as they may provide key statements supporting your case.
Step 4: Avoid Making Statements to Insurance Companies
You may be contacted by the driver’s insurance company soon after the accident. While it may seem like they are eager to help, remember that their priority is to protect their bottom line, not to make sure you receive fair compensation. Do not provide a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer without first consulting an attorney.
Any remarks you make could be used against you to diminish or devalue your claim. Instead, tell the insurance adjuster that you will be consulting legal representation and that they can direct future communications to your attorney.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Attorney
If you have been struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian, contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. They can handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather expert witnesses, decode California pedestrian laws, and build a strong case on your behalf.
An attorney can guide you through every step to protect your rights and make sure you have access to the resources you need for recovery. Your goal is to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you may have incurred due to the accident.
Contact Our Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorneys in Orange County, California, Today
No one anticipates being hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian or the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that accompany it. Working through the aftermath of an accident is challenging, but you don't have to face it alone. By following the above steps and consulting with an experienced attorney, you can prioritize your safety, capture valuable evidence, and protect your legal rights.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we are committed to standing by you following a pedestrian accident. Our goal is to secure the justice and compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, call our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
We represent clients across Orange County, California, including but not limited to Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Habra, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Los Alamitos, Newport Beach, Orange, Placentia, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, and Yorba Linda.