Pedestrian accidents are relatively rare compared to any other type of car accident, but they can happen at any time. Perhaps you were walking your dog and attempted to cross the street in the crosswalk when a car appeared out of nowhere and hit you. Now you’re hurt and suffering because someone wasn’t paying attention to the road. 

When you’re struck by a careless driver as a pedestrian, you may feel lost and unsure what to do next. Check out the following steps to ensure you’re making the right first actions when you’re hurt and seek out the guidance of a lawyer if you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed.

Seek Out Medical Attention

When you’re struck by a car as a pedestrian, you may have suffered life-threatening injuries. Call 911 and wait for an ambulance. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, you or any other injured parties should not be moved until medical aid arrives. 

Failure to seek medical care can allow your injuries to worsen. It also gives the insurance company a chance to claim you weren’t really hurt in the accident. Be sure you get the care you need for your injuries and your lawsuit. 

Exchange Information with the Driver

Once you’ve made sure that anyone hurt in the accident is safe, get contact information from the driver and any witnesses who may have seen the car accident and will talk about what happened. You should collect:

  • Names and addresses
  • Phone numbers
  • License plate numbers for each vehicle
  • Insurance information

Seek Evidence for Your Accident 

Photos and videos document what happened at the scene so that there’s no confusion later about what took place. Below is just a sample of some of the footage you may be able to use as evidence for your claim: 

  • Take Photos at the Scene – If possible, take pictures and video of the crosswalk or the area where you were walking at the time of impact before anything is altered. Physical evidence like skid marks can help a car accident reconstructionist piece together what happened later.
  • Capture Traffic Videos – Capture video of how traffic lights operate at the intersection. This could aid in determining if traffic lights were flashing yellow when you were in the crosswalk and establish whether the driver was disobeying traffic laws.
  • Check Surveillance Video – Take a look around and see if area businesses have outdoor surveillance cameras. Supporting evidence from third-party videos can be helpful when proving fault. Request a copy of the footage from the business owner if you think it supports your case.

Know Your Claim’s Value

When you’re hurt as a pedestrian, you may have grounds for recovery from your accident. The driver may be liable for your medical bills and lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working in your job then there could also be future medical expenses and lost wages. 

You may also be eligible for non-economic damages, which cover the emotional toll of your accident. Pain and suffering, anxiety, and loss of enjoyment of life can all help you recover. 

Consult with an Attorney After a Pedestrian Accident

There’s a lot at stake after a pedestrian accident. If you’re concerned about your lawsuit and what happens next, you may need a pedestrian accident lawyer on your side when preparing your claim. 

Be proactive and call our office immediately or you may risk losing out on thousands, or even tens of thousands, of dollars. Call Craig Swapp & Associates at 1-800-404-9000 or complete the online contact form below. 

Written By: Ryan Swapp     Legal Review By: Craig Swapp