What to Do Immediately After an Auto Pedestrian Accident

Did you know that 7,522 pedestrians were killed and more than 67,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide in 2022?

Accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles are alarming and can lead to severe consequences. Knowing what to do immediately after an auto pedestrian accident can help safeguard everyone involved. This can also help protect your legal rights and ensure you get the necessary medical attention.

In this guide, we will discuss the steps you should take after an auto pedestrian accident. Read on to learn more.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step after an accident is to stay calm and assess the situation. Take a deep breath and try not to panic. Check yourself for any injuries and then check on others involved, including pedestrians, drivers, and passengers.

If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic. It is also essential to turn on hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles to notify other drivers of the accident. These accident safety measures can help prevent further accidents or injuries.

Call for Medical Assistance

The next step is to call for medical assistance. Even if you do not feel injured, it is crucial to get checked by a medical professional.

Some injuries may not be apparent right away. Delaying medical attention can result in more severe complications.

It is also important to check if anyone else involved in the accident needs medical attention. If necessary, call an ambulance or ask someone else at the scene to call for help.

Contact the Police

In most states, it’s required by law to report auto accidents to the police. Calling them to the scene is important. They can create an official report of the accident that can be used for insurance purposes.

When speaking with the police, provide them with accurate and honest information about what happened. Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about the cause of the accident.

Gather Information and Document the Accident

While waiting for the police to arrive, gather information about the accident. This includes taking pictures of the scene, damage to vehicles, and injuries sustained.

You should also exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved in the accident. If there were any witnesses present, get their contact information as well.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have left the scene of the accident, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They can guide you through the claims process and help cover any expenses related to the accident. Be sure to provide them with all the information and documentation you collected at the scene.

Seek Legal Representation

If you have sustained injuries or significant damages, it may be in your best interest to seek legal representation. A car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal process.

They can also assist in negotiating with insurance companies. They will ensure you receive fair compensation for any medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Handling Auto Pedestrian Accident Effectively

Being involved in an auto pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. However, knowing what to do after the accident can help minimize the impact and protect your well-being. Use the tips above to ensure you take the necessary steps to handle the situation effectively.

Keep in mind that every accident is different. It’s important to follow recommendations provided by law enforcement or medical professionals. Stay safe and always follow traffic laws to prevent pedestrian accident cases from happening.

For more insights and advice, feel free to explore our other articles on our website.