Pedestrian accidents can lead to severe injuries, as victims often have few protections against the force of an oncoming vehicle. Following the steps below can help you when dealing with the insurance company, law enforcement, and any other involved parties.
- Get to a safe area near the scene and call 911. Between attempting to assess your injuries, the confusion of the moment, and the likely rush of adrenaline, a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Try to stay as close to the scene as possible while remaining safe, and call 911.
- Exchange information: Similar to after you’re involved in a car accident, you will want to collect the other driver’s information. This includes their name, license plate number, and insurance information. However, be sure to avoid discussing the details of the accident with the other involved parties. It can be surprisingly easy to accidentally say something which may hurt your case in the future.
- Collect evidence: Gather as much information from the scene of the accident as you safely can. Take pictures or video of the surrounding area, your injuries, the other driver’s vehicle, and anything else which may seem important. You may get only one opportunity to record an accident scene and doing so can help to substantiate your claims. Additionally, if any witnesses are willing to give their account of what happened, take down their information as well.
- Inform the insurance company: The insurance company will also need to know about the accident and, as soon as you are able to do so, you should file an injury claim. However, much like your discussions with the other driver, providing more information than is absolutely necessary may hurt your claim. The insurance company may not have your best interest at heart. Before you enter into discussions about your case, consider contacting an attorney.
- See a doctor: The extent of your injuries may not be clear immediately after an accident. In fact, it is not uncommon for victims to go home believing they are okay, only to discover later that they have a serious injury. Only a doctor can diagnose your injuries, and the sooner you seek medical care, the sooner you can get the help you need.
- Contact an attorney: Insurance companies often have a dedicated legal team backing their interests, and when you are seeking a fair payment, having a knowledgeable attorney in your corner can help to level the playing field. A personal injury lawyer can help you deal with the insurance company, avoid pitfalls, and maximize the strength of your claim.
If you have suffered injuries from a pedestrian accident through no fault of your own, do not hesitate to contact The Womac Law Firm. Our New Orleans personal injury attorneys possess 35+ years of legal experience and have represented more than 35,000 clients.
Call (504) 470-3935 or schedule a free consultation online and find out what it means to “Put the Womac on 'em!”