Auto-Pedestrian Accidents: What To Do When You've Been Hit

Whenever moving vehicles and pedestrians share the same space, the potential for a collision increases. Injuries are almost a guarantee for the pedestrian being struck by a vehicle. Anyone who walks through a parking lot or near traffic lanes needs to know what to do to protect their rights following an auto-pedestrian accident.

Get Medical Treatment and File a Report

The first thing you need to do is ensure that you receive immediate medical attention for any injuries you have sustained. Even if you don't feel as though your injuries warrant medical attention, it's best to get checked out by a doctor anyway. Failure to seek medical help could compromise your ability to file a personal injury lawsuit in the future.

You should also ensure that you file a report with your local police department. Officers will conduct an investigation and determine the cause of the accident. A report will be prepared, and this report can be used as evidence during a trial.

Limit Contact With the Driver

You may be tempted to discuss the accident with the driver at the scene. It is imperative that you limit your contact with the driver to the exchange of contact information only. Anything that you say to the driver can be used against you when you file a personal injury lawsuit.

Never admit fault or discuss details of the accident without your attorney present. You should gather contact information, insurance information, and the license plate number from the driver, but leave your contact at that.

File a Personal Injury Claim

Meet with an attorney as soon as possible after an auto-pedestrian accident. You must file your lawsuit quickly to ensure that you don't miss the opportunity to seek financial compensation for your injuries in court.

Most states have a statute of limitations that applies to personal injury lawsuits. Your attorney will need time to collect evidence, prepare a complaint, and file your lawsuit within the time allotted. The sooner you meet with an attorney after being hit in an auto-pedestrian accident, the sooner you can access the financial compensation you deserve.

You must take appropriate action after you have been struck by a car to ensure your legal right to pursue a personal injury claim is preserved. Seek medical attention, limit your contact with the driver, and meet with a personal injury attorney quickly to give yourself the best chance at winning a personal injury claim.

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