Pedestrian Accident? 7 Steps You MUST Follow!
Pedestrian accidents are an unfortunate reality in Pasadena, California. They are more common than you think with devastating consequences!
As a seasoned personal injury attorney, let me help you navigate these challenging situations.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process after a pedestrian accident. My goal is to ensure you protect your rights!
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Pedestrian Accident 7 Steps
1. Prioritize Safety and Call Emergency Services for Pedestrian Accidents
Following a pedestrian accident, you must prioritize your safety!
Here’s what to do… IMMEDIATELY!
Move to a Safe Location
Your safety should always come first! Immediately following a pedestrian accident, move to a safe area! Make sure it’s away from traffic or any other potential dangers.
Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention
Assess yourself and others for injuries. All injuries, even minor ones, should be noted. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Therefore it’s crucial for you to seek medical attention, immediately!
Dial 911 for Police and Medical Assistance
Call 911 to report the accident. Request immediate assistance from both law enforcement and medical professionals.
Provide Accurate Information to Emergency Services
When speaking with emergency services, make sure that you provide accurate and concise information. Also make sure that you provide any information about any injuries that you or others have.
The information that you provide will be crucial later in the process!
2. Exchange Information and Documents at the Scene
Exchanging information and documents from a pedestrian accident is crucial! Make sure you follow these steps…
Obtain Contact Details from Involved Parties of the Pedestrian Accident
Collect contact information including…
- Names
- Phone Numbers
- Addresses
Make sure that you collect information from all parties involved including drivers and witnesses.
Take Photos of Pedestrian Accident Scene, Injuries and Property Damage
Use your phone or camera to document the accident scene. Make sure to snapshot any injuries. Also include photos of property damage to vehicles or personal belongings.
Noting Environmental Conditions
Make a note of environmental conditions at the time of the accident. This can include:
- Weather
- Lighting
- Road Conditions
This information can be vital in determining liability!
(Graphic that says, “Information Checklist” with bullet points: Names, Phone Numbers, Addresses, Weather Conditions, Photos)
3. Wait for Law Enforcement
After you prioritize your safety and call law enforcement, these tips are essential while waiting for law enforcement…
Avoid Making Statements that May Imply Guilt
Make sure to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting guilt.
Stick to Facts When Discussing the Accident
Provide law enforcement with a factual account of the accident. Avoid speculating or making assumptions about what happened.
Cooperate with Arriving Police Officers
Be cooperative with the police officers who arrive at the scene. They will conduct an investigation and create an accident report.
Request a Copy of the Police Report
Request a copy of the police report for your records. This report will be crucial when dealing with insurance claims and legal proceedings.
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4. Seek Medical Attention
Obtaining a Comprehensive Medical Evaluation is crucial, even when injuries appear “minor.” Certain injuries may not become apparent immediately and may deteriorate over time.
Additionally, it is important to meticulously record all medical interventions such as:
- Doctors Appointments
- Prescribed Medications
- Suggested Follow-Up Care
(Graphic that says something like: Medical Documents Checklist: Doctors Appointments. Prescribed Medications, Suggested Follow-Up Care)
5. Preserve Evidence
It’s important to retain your clothing and personal belongings worn during the accident. Thes items could potentially serve as valuable in your case.
Furthermore, ensure that you maintain well-organized records like:
- Medical Records and Bills
- Treatment Schedules
- Supporting Documents
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Timely reporting of the accident is crucial! It’s essential to contact your insurance company promptly to initiate the claims process. When engaging with your insurer, honesty and clarity are paramount.
Maintain accuracy and conciseness in your communications. Focus on the facts and refrain from making speculative statements!
Your Pasadena pedestrian accident lawyer will be invaluable when communicating with your insurance company.
7. Consult With an Attorney
To gain a comprehensive grasp of your rights, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel from a Pasadena personal injury attorney. We are well-versed in this field and can guide you through the legal proceedings.
Additionally, we will assess your case and engage in discussions regarding potential compensation for various damages, encompassing medical costs, income loss, emotional distress, and more.
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps is crucial to protect your rights and ensure a smoother claims process.
To learn more about how we can assist you, please visit our website and schedule a consultation with our dedicated team.
Click here for a complete guide to hiring a personal injury attorney.
