As a pedestrian, you have the right of way and motorists are required to exercise reasonable care when driving, which includes being aware of their surroundings. However, crashes can still happen due to factors such as distracted driving, speeding, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or even because of pedestrian faults. Therefore, following the appropriate steps after such an incident is crucial to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Failure to do so may not only result in a delay in compensation but could also lead to complete denial of your claim for damages. Here is a comprehensive guide on what to do after a pedestrian accident.
Ensure Your Safety and Call for Medical Assistance
Most importantly, start by seeking medical attention if you are injured or feel any discomfort. If you are at the scene, call 911 and request emergency assistance. While waiting for help, stay as still as possible and do not attempt to move if you suspect any serious injuries. You don’t want to make anything worse. Try to stay calm and wait for medical professionals to arrive. They will be sure to look over any possible injuries to make sure that you are okay.
Gather Relevant Information from the Scene
Collect information from the driver involved, including their name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number. Also, print the name of the location, time of day, and specific weather conditions. If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information, as their written statement could be valuable in filing a claim later. This information is relevant to create a compelling case for your pedestrian accident. Every detail is important so don’t leave anything out.
Report the Incident
The responsibility of reporting the accident falls on the driver of the vehicle involved in the crash or the pedestrian who got hit. If the incident resulted in death, serious physical injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000, the driver is required to report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within ten days of the occurrence. If they don’t, they can look bad on their part. Make sure you get the driver’s information to report it to the police so they can do a follow-up. Sometimes these situations are out of your hands. Patience is important but make sure you are keeping up with everything.
Contact a Lawyer
Several factors may impact the severity or complexity of the case. These factors include the extent of the injuries, the number of parties involved, and these factors may have contributed to the accident. A lawyer who specializes in such incidents can be your advocate and help you comprehend your legal rights, insurance coverage options, and compensation possibilities. They will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and give you the support you need during this challenging time.
File a Compensation Claim
Compensation for a pedestrian accident may cover a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damaged property. Depending on your state, applicable laws should dictate how you should approach the matter. For no-fault insurance states such as New York, you can file a claim with your automobile insurance provider, even if you were at fault.
However, in cases of negligence resulting in a severe crash, a victim may be entitled to compensation beyond the scope of no-fault insurance. Therefore, it is important to consult with New York pedestrian accident attorneys at Douglas and London to explore your legal options and potential compensation.
Conclusion
Being involved in any road accident is a stressful situation, but you can protect your rights and ensure fair compensation by following these essential steps. Seek medical attention, collect evidence from the scene, report the incident, and engage an attorney specializing in such cases. Remember that time is of the essence, and taking prompt action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. You deserve justice for these types of accidents. Make sure to reach out to a trusted legal team that will fight for you.
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