Unlike the passengers sitting inside a car, pedestrians are at high risk of being involved in an accident due to no exterior protection. This is why pedestrian accidents usually lead to critical injuries. when a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle, it may take several months or even years to recover from the injuries. In fact, there are times when the victim never recovers fully.
Apart from the physical pain and permanent or temporary disability that you sustain through the accident, you can also be bleeding with exorbitant medical bills. What are the steps that you should take as a pedestrian soon after an accident to make sure you are in the best possible position? Should you first rush to a Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorney? Let’s check out the steps that you should take.
- Verify whether you have minor or major injuries
The first thing you should do after a pedestrian accident is to make sure you have any serious or minor injuries. Remain calm and check whether it is possible for you to move safely. In case you are still in the middle of the road, you may be in some further danger. So move out of the place and stay put at a safe location.
- Contact the local police authorities
Majority of the accidents that include harm or injury to the person involved require the intervention of local authorities. The pedestrian should call the police in case the driver refuses to stop or help the victim at the scene of the accident. The police will soon file an FIR report for the accident and also give a call to the emergency services to help you out for medical attention. In the event that the police assume that the at-fault driver was drunk or under the influence of some drugs, he may arrest him right at the spot of the accident.
- Get the details of the driver
If this is possible for you and if you are not seriously hurt after the accident, you should try your best to grab a few details of the driver. Note down the license plate number of the driver’s car, his name, and his contact details. While you exchange this information, don’t reveal too much of your details to him. Keep the conversation strictly professional as it is important to avoid any discussion about who was at fault for the accident.
- Contact a lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents
The last step that you may take is to get in touch with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents. The lawyer will handle the initial portion of the negotiation with the insurance adjuster, collect the required evidence, and interview the eyewitness of the accident. He will also give you a realistic idea about the compensation that you may expect.
Therefore, now that you are aware of the steps to take after a pedestrian accident, ensure you don’t make mistakes that can cost you in the long run.
