As a pedestrian, it is unavoidable to be crossing the street and not be hit by a negligent driver, whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol or simply not paying enough attention to the road. In any case, it is important to know how to react in this type of situation, what to do next in a similar scenario?
keep your composure
After the impact with the vehicle and the pavement, people usually go into a fit of rage against the driver of the vehicle, such as starting to yell at him and even cry at the same time. These types of reactions can end up resulting in a physical fight, which is not recommended at all.
Even though your emotions will be on edge, try to maintain your composure as much as possible. Get tested to make sure you can move around, get up, get off the street and onto the sidewalk. After you’ve got it, be sure to tell the driver to stay where he is, if he didn’t run from the scene of the accident.
call the authorities
Once you have managed to get off the street, call the authorities. In pedestrian accidents, the police report is the only piece of evidence that will provide you with a convincing case. And even if you don’t feel bad, don’t leave until the police arrive. If you withdraw, the accident will be inadmissible to the police, and you will then lose your chance to make a convincing case.
When the police have arrived, make your statement calmly and in detail. Try not to overdo it or yell as this can lead to errors within the statement and police report. And if possible, ask the officer to go over the statement with you when you’ve finished it.
Make a documentation
Before leaving the scene of the accident, try to document the details of the accident. Take photos of the car that hit you, road signs, road conditions, etc. And while most of these “tests” are not going to be used, some of them may be helpful when filing an insurance claim. Also, if there are people nearby, you can ask them if they are willing to appear as witnesses in your case.
seek medical attention
In a situation like this, adrenaline and other hormones can minimize the pain and you may think that you are fine, so once you have finished with your police statement, go immediately for a medical check-up. Things like broken bones may not be easy to identify, and may need to be x-rayed.
And once you’ve verified his physical integrity, you may want to consider seeing a psychologist for a mental evaluation. Most accident victims are prone to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), so it is important that you consider a psychological diagnosis.
contact an attorney
Although you can file a claim yourself, you will most likely get more if you are represented by an attorney. If you file the claim yourself, the insurance company will use all of its legal tools to pay you the lowest amount possible, and have representation. Adequate legal assistance can help you receive the amount you really deserve after going through such a terrible situation.