Ever found yourself crossing the street and wondering what happens if you get hit by a car while walking? It’s a terrifying thought, but unfortunately, it’s a reality for many.
In California, there was a 9.4% rise in pedestrian fatalities, increasing from 1,013 in 2020 to 1,108 in 2021. Nakakatakot, di ba?
Whether you’re in a busy city or a quiet neighborhood, a pedestrian accident can happen anywhere, often due to factors like distracted driving or ignoring traffic signals. If you or a loved one is a pedestrian hit by a car in California, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in handling your personal injury claims effectively.
Continue reading to know what to do next to ensure you receive the support you deserve.
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Ensuring your safety is paramount after a pedestrian injury. Once sure that you are safe, seek immediate medical care to address any severe injuries, including traumatic brain injury, and receive necessary medical treatment promptly.
Prompt medical attention supports your recovery and strengthens any future claims for compensation related to the accident. Remember to avoid gaps in treatment for thorough legal support, especially when dealing with insurance claims.
2. Document the Scene
After seeking medical attention immediately, the next step is to document the scene. Thorough documentation plays a critical role in your pedestrian accident claim by establishing key details of the incident. This includes figuring out who is responsible and strengthening your case for fair compensation.
Here are some tips for documenting the scene:
- Take Photos: Capture the accident scene from multiple angles, including any visible injuries and damage to vehicles or property.
- Note Details: Record the date, time, and weather conditions. Note if you were in a marked crosswalk.
- Witness Information: Obtain contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident unfold.
3. Report the Accident
After a pedestrian accident, reporting it to the police is crucial for officially documenting the incident. Police reports detail the involvement of responsible parties and provide essential information for insurance claims.
This step ensures that the injured person receives prompt medical attention and that the circumstances of the accident are recorded accurately. Additionally, it helps establish whether reasonable care and safe speed were observed during the incident.
4. Consult a California Personal Injury Lawyer
Next, consider consulting an experienced lawyer specializing in pedestrian accidents to know the legal complexities of your case. A skilled California personal injury lawyer can assess factors like driver negligence, vehicle speed, and accident injuries to determine the best course of action.
They provide invaluable support in dealing with insurance adjusters and understanding California pedestrian safety laws. This consultation ensures that you receive expert guidance tailored to securing maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
5. Gather and Preserve Evidence
As you move forward with your accident claim, gathering and preserving evidence plays a vital role in supporting your pedestrian accident claim. This evidence helps demonstrate the details of the incident to the insurance company and aids in determining liability if the driver is at fault.
Some practical tips to effectively gather and preserve evidence:
- Keep a detailed journal documenting your injuries, pain levels, and any emotional trauma experienced after the accident.
- Maintain copies of medical records and bills relating to emergency medical care received.
- Obtain a copy of the accident report filed by law enforcement to ensure accuracy and completeness in documenting the event.
Stay Safe and Seek Legal Aid Today
Handling an accident claim involves ensuring safety, accurate incident documentation, and prompt legal guidance. Understanding California pedestrian safety laws and securing the support of an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer is essential in holding the at-fault party accountable and protecting the rights of the injured party.
By following these steps, you enhance your chances of a favorable outcome in your case. For personalized guidance and a free consultation, reach out to Kapwa Justice today.
Para sa proteksyon at hustisya, huwag mag-atubiling kumunsulta.
