There are many reasons why we find ourselves in the pedestrian lane. For some people, walking in the lane can be an integral part of your exercise routine. On the other hand, others use it to move from one point to the other. Unfortunately, sometimes walking exposes us to dangerous situations such as car accidents. As a pedestrian, you should always take safety precautions when walking. However, in the event that you get hit by a vehicle or a cyclist, here are some of the things you need to do:
Stay Calm and Evaluate Injuries
Many people run out of emotions after being hit by a motorist. Others will get frightened and shocked by the event. However, the best thing is not to let that adrenaline take control of you. Rather, you should remain calm and identify whether you have sustained any injuries. If you aren’t injured, or your injuries are minor, then you can consider moving out of the pavement to a safer place. Otherwise, if you have injuries, seek urgent medical attention.
Call the Police
Once you have moved to safer ground, you need to call the police immediately. The police will help clear off the accident scene and file an accident report even if you aren’t hurt. The report may be necessary when you are filing a compensation claim. Also, don’t intimidate or make the driver feel guilty.
Gather Evidence
As you wait for the police officers to arrive, try to gather as much evidence of the incident as possible. Using your smartphone, you can take photos of the scene, including the vehicle’s plate number, insurance information, and driver’s license (if possible). Be sure to capture traffic signs around to aid in your case. If you are unable to take the photos, you can request help from a bystander or witness.
Get Medical Help
Sometimes, the injuries sustained can be minor or undetectable. Since the adrenaline rush caused by shock can sometimes cover up the pain, seeking medical help is the only sure way of confirming. A doctor will examine you to ensure you don’t suffer from internal bleeding, concussion, or any other condition that may affect you in the future.
Contact an Attorney
Once you have obtained the necessary information, you can go ahead and file a case in the courts. But first, you should contact a personal injury attorney to help you determine whether you have a case. Also, these attorneys will help you file the case appropriately for good compensation.
Final Thoughts
Pedestrian accidents are common. If you find yourself being a victim, you shouldn’t panic. You should follow the above-mentioned guides since it’s your legal right to get compensated. Note that the faster you take the necessary action, the safer you will be.
Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She loves being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan finds happiness in researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook right here and Twitter right here.
