Any time a person is in an accident it can be a stressful and scary event. When a pedestrian is involved, the stress and scariness is increased so much more. Unfortunately, pedestrians and motor vehicle accidents are not an uncommon occurrence, and it is important to know what to do and what NOT to do if you find yourself in that situation.
Stay calm and assess the situation
The best thing to do is to stay calm and assess the situation. If you are the victim. you should NEVER leave the scene even if you feel fine. You could have serious internal injuries. Assess the situation, and have someone call 911. DO NOT allow anyone to move you if you have been injured because you could have sustained serious injuries that could be worsened by being moved.
Contact proper authorities
The police will likely arrive at the scene around the same time the medical help arrives. You should give truthful statements about what took place before and during the accident. If the driver did not follow traffic signals, hit you in a cross walk, was texting or otherwise distracted while driving, they may be liable for your injuries. You should also contact your insurance agent.
Exchange information
Just as you would with a 2-vehicle accident, if you are not seriously injured you should exchange contact and insurance information with the driver. You should avoid having a lengthy conversation with the driver or on-lookers; nor should you excuse the driver of responsibility. Hire your own attorney to represent you and avoid speaking to the driver’s insurance agent of attorney. Your own attorney and insurance representatives will protect your interests much better than trying to “work with them.”
Establish Damages
Similar to a two-vehicle accident, fault liability will be determined. Different states determine damages differently. Some states take into account the level of fault of each party and assign liability to each. Other states will not allow a party who has any liability to file against the other party’s insurance.
A person who is not at fault may recover damages including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even mental or emotional damages, such as “loss of enjoyment.”
Contact Bryan Caulfield | A Personal Injury Attorney
The experienced personal injury attorney Bryan Caulfield serves the Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Rocky Point, Spring hill, and New Port Richey areas and is ready to fight for your interests.
Call 1-800-535-2529 today or fill out our online contact form to discuss your case.