You probably do not expect a car to hit you while you are walking on the sidewalk. Unfortunately, pedestrian fatalities from motor vehicle accidents are on the rise, according to the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration.
The minutes following a motor vehicle accident are crucial. If you are a pedestrian involved in a car accident, try to remain calm and follow these steps to protect yourself.
Seek medical attention
If injured in the accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not feel hurt, you will want to schedule an appointment with your doctor to confirm that you are not suffering from internal injuries.
Stay at the scene
You, the driver and any witnesses should remain at the scene of the accident but move to a safe area if possible. You should gather the contact information of the driver and witnesses and ask them to wait until the police arrive.
Call the police
As soon as you are safe, call the police. Your insurance company will want to see a police report that outlines the events of the accident.
Ask witnesses to provide their account of the accident to the police. Witnesses’ accounts may be very important for any future legal action.
Contact your insurance company
Many car insurance policies cover these types of accidents. Contact your insurance provider immediately to determine whether your policy covers your medical costs.
Often, pedestrians can hold the negligent driver liable for the cost of medical bills and other expenses that were a direct result of the crash.