According to a new analysis from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), drivers hit and killed 3,304 pedestrians in the United States in the first half of 2024. The figure is down 2.6% from the year before, but it is 48% up when compared to a decade ago.
Driving with distraction can lead to pedestrian accidents. Along with speeding and drunk driving, reckless actions while operating a vehicle may lead to serious injuries. A Pasadena pedestrian accident lawyer says that if your loved one died after a pedestrian accident, you may be able to seek compensation on their behalf.
Regardless of whether you are the person who was hit or just a simple witness to the accident, knowing what steps to take after a pedestrian accident will help uphold your rights. Prompt action keeps you safe and protects your rights.
This article will help pedestrian accident victims take the necessary steps to receive adequate support and compensation.
Ensure Your Safety First
Always put a focus on your safety after a pedestrian accident.
Check for oncoming traffic and other possible hazards. Move to a safe spot away from the road. If you have sustained heavy injuries, stay put and wait for emergency services to arrive. See to it that you are visible to other vehicles so they do not accidentally hit you.
Make a call to trusted friends or family members. Ask them for assistance. It is important to stay calm and collected. Keep in mind that panic and anxiety will only harm your ability to make sound judgments.
Document the Accident Scene
After seeking medical attention, the next most important issue is getting the accident scene documented.
Photograph the area, the vehicle, visible injury, and all surrounding landmarks. Take photographs of the identified weather conditions and all traffic lights. These photographs can be key evidence in the case.
Make notes regarding the date and time of the accident, specific location, and any details that stand out. If possible, sketch a simple diagram of the scene illustrating how the accident happened.
A security camera within the accident scene can provide strong visual proof. Any dashcams installed in the cars of involved drivers may have captured what clearly happened. The purpose of a dash cam is to record real-time events. The recordings of the dashcam can help determine fault and support insurance claims.
You will recognize the importance of documentation once you file a claim and deal with insurance companies. Remember, the more detailed your documentation is, the better case it will make for you in the future.
Don’t forget that every detail counts in documentation.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
See a doctor immediately after a pedestrian accident. You might feel fine, but pedestrian accidents can cause injuries that have underlying symptoms.
A professional medical examination will reveal any internal health issues that you may be ignoring. Your checkup will produce an official document that can be useful for future injury claims.
Do not wait until the pain sets in. Getting checked out by a doctor right away will significantly affect your ability to recover.
Gather Witness Information
Statements from witnesses will help you build your case. Start with anyone who has seen the accident and ask for their names and contact information.
Collect all phone numbers, as well as email addresses, to ease later contact. Witnesses may tell you politely what they saw. Their accounts of what happened can be a source of useful information. If possible, take notes or use the recording function on your phone.
Record anything relevant to your experience during the incident. The testimonies of witnesses can be used to support your version of events.
Don’t forget to thank witnesses for their assistance.
Understand Your Legal Rights and Options
It is absolutely critical to know your legal rights and options following a pedestrian accident since they can influence the outcome of your case.
Your right is to demand reimbursement for medical bills, loss of wages, and suffering. The driver, a municipality, or even you may all be held liable for the incident.
Every circumstance is unique and an attorney for personal injuries would best explain to you how local laws differ. They can take you to court if needed, as they help you file claims and negotiate with insurers.
Do not hesitate to exercise your rights. Timely action would serve to strengthen your case and assure the compensation you deserve.
