According to the World Health Organisation, more than 270,000 pedestrians worldwide lose their lives every year. Pedestrian fatalities constitute 22% of road traffic deaths. Some countries record over two-thirds of road traffic death as pedestrian fatalities. Sadly, even the millions of pedestrians who survive road accidents are left with permanent injuries that inflict a lot of pain, grief and suffering. From the statistics, it is evident that pedestrian accidents are common and can happen to anyone. But what do you do when you leave home as usual but get hit by a car on the streets? Well, this article details some key steps you should take if you have been hit by a car as a pedestrian.

Remain Calm and Don’t Move

If you have been hit by a car, the intensity of the injuries and pain will depend on the point of impact and the speed of the car. If you retain your consciousness, you may experience a lot of pain, anger and fury. That adrenaline level spike could push you to unleash words of rage towards the driver. Regardless of how much pain you are in, try to remain calm after the accident. It will help if you communicate with the driver that hit you, witnesses, the police and diffuse your panic. 

Don’t move; stay at the same place you landed when the car hit you until paramedics or the police get to the accident scene. Avoiding movement also prevents further injuries and pain.

Seek Immediate Medical Assistance

Call for immediate medical assistance and evaluation if you still are conscious. Emotional and physical shock may deter your body’s ability to recognize pain and injury. Even if you are not in much pain, you must get examined. Try to document your injuries if you are in a position to do so, as you wait for medical help. Identify any injuries, parts that are bleeding, and body parts that are in pain. If you lose consciousness after the accident, chances are you will wake up in a hospital. 

Enquire from the doctor on your health state and any tests carried out. Ensure that the doctor documents all your injuries and medical interventions carried out. A comprehensive doctor’s report will be beneficial as you seek compensation for the injuries, pain, and suffering caused by the accident. It is also good to call in a few family members or friends for emotional support.

Call the Police

Contact the police immediately and again, do not leave the accident scene until they get there. Ask the driver who hit you to stay there too until the police arrive, even if you feel okay. According to pedestrian accident attorneys, you should be careful with your words as anything you say can be used against you later. For example, do not admit you were in the wrong. Be honest but let the authorities carry their investigation from the onlookers or traffic cameras to identify who was at fault. Speak to an accident attorney to help you do the talking. Remember to ask for a copy of the accident report from the police. It will be helpful when seeking compensation from the driver’s insurance company.

Gather Evidence on the Accident Scene

The evidence you collect at the accident scene will aid when filing an injury claim. First, get the driver’s information; their name, insurance details, license plate number, and vehicle details. Take photos of the vehicle, the surrounding area, and that of your injuries. If you cannot take pictures due to injuries, ask one of the witnesses to do it for you on your phone. You can talk to a few witnesses and ask them to stay until the police arrive so that they can give their statements. 

You can enquire about their contact details in case you would want to contact them later. Find out if the accident was born out of recklessness. For instance, check if the driver is holding a cell phone in their hand, as this could mean they were on a phone call at the time of the accident. Check if there are any signs that the driver was drunk. The bottom line is that the information you gather can aid in further investigations. 

Seek Legal Assistance

If you are struck by a vehicle, you are likely you suffer injuries that can affect your life by causing physical, emotional, and financial constraints. The insurance company of the motorist who struck you will not have your best interest at heart. They might try to deny compensation claims by placing fault on you. 

Mind you, if they accept fault, they will likely offer the least settlement amount possible. That is why it is advisable to seek professional assistance from experienced and qualified accident attorneys if you or your loved one encounter a pedestrian accident. An experienced attorney is in the best position to dispute a denied claim and stand by your side. Hiring a good pedestrian accident lawyer will ensure that your rights are not violated. You are more likely to get the best settlement amount for your pain, injury, and suffering compensation.

Wrap up

Being hit by a car as a pedestrian is a daunting experience that can change your life. No one should suffer from the negligence and carelessness of drivers. However, it is worth noting that the steps you take after the incident can impact your health and compensation. Follow the steps we have covered to stay safe and seek justice. More importantly, seek legal assistance. Let a qualified attorney handle your case to ensure you are compensated fairly as you recover from the trauma and injuries.