Every day, we hear news about pedestrians being hit by cars. In 2021 alone, statistics revealed a distressing truth: in traffic-related accidents, a pedestrian was injured in every 9 minutes. These accidents can be frightening and can cause serious injuries or even death.
While walking is one of the simplest and most eco-friendly modes of transportation, its dangers cannot be ignored. Although accidents are uncommon, it’s important to know what to do if you witness a pedestrian hit by car or find yourself a victim.
Understanding the causes, taking preventive measures, and seeking legal help are essential steps in a pedestrian accident. By learning more, we can help make our place safer for everyone who walks.
Statistics of Pedestrian Accidents
In recent years, the number of pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. has continued to rise. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, in 2021, there were 7,485 pedestrian deaths, a significant increase from the previous years. This trend continued in 2022, with a record of 7,508 pedestrian fatalities, the highest number since 1981.
In the first half of 2023, there were 3,373 pedestrian deaths, which is a 4% decrease from the previous year. However, this number is still much higher than it was before the pandemic.
Governors Highway Safety Association
What to Do If a Pedestrian Hit by Car?
If you are a pedestrian who has been hit by a car, it’s crucial to act quickly and calmly. Here are the steps you should follow:
Stay calm and check for injuries
The first thing you need to do is to stay calm. Take a few deep breaths to steady yourself. This will help you think more clearly and assess your situation.
If you can move, carefully go to a safe area to avoid further injury. However, if you feel severe pain or suspect a serious injury, stay where you are and wait for help. Moving too much could make injuries worse.
After the accident, your adrenaline might mask the pain. So it’s crucial to check yourself for injuries, even if you think you’re okay. Look for cuts, bruises, or any signs of broken bones. Pay attention to pain in your neck, back, or head, as these could indicate more serious injuries.
Call for help
Call 911 or ask someone nearby to do it for you. It’s important to have medical professionals assess your condition. Even if you think your injuries are minor, getting a medical evaluation is crucial. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious but can be serious if left untreated.
When the police arrive, they will create an accident report, which is essential for your legal claims or insurance settlements.
Gather information
If possible, collect the driver’s information, including name, phone number, license number, and insurance details. Note the model, color, and number of the vehicle. Also, get contact information from any witnesses. Their statements can be very helpful later.
Keeping detailed records of your medical treatment will help support your case if you pursue legal action.
Document the scene
Use your phone to take photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicle that hit you, and any other relevant details. These photos can serve as crucial evidence, if you need to make an insurance claim or take legal action.
Keep the damaged cell phone or other devices during the accident since they might show how you were hit.
Make sure to file a report with the local police, if they haven’t already done so at the scene. This report is important for your insurance claim and any legal actions you pursue.
Do not admit fault
Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Admitting fault can complicate things and might affect your ability to get compensation for your injuries. Instead, focus on getting medical help and gathering information about the accident.
Contact a personal injury lawyer
If you were hit by a car, you might be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact a personal injury lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents to discuss your case.
If you decide to take legal action, stay informed about your case. Keep in regular contact with your lawyer and provide any requested information promptly.
Notify your insurance company
Inform your insurance company about the accident, even if you were not at fault. Your health insurance might cover some of your medical expenses, and your auto insurance policy might have coverage for pedestrian accidents.
Who Pays for Medical Expenses After Pedestrian Accident?
As a pedestrian, you have rights. If a car hits you while you are walking, figuring out who pays your medical bills can be hard. Usually, it’s the driver’s insurance that covers your medical costs. But if the driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough, or if your state has special rules, it can get more complicated.
If the driver runs away after hitting you, you might be able to use your own insurance to cover your bills. Some states also have programs to help victims of crimes like hit-and-run accidents.
Furthermore, if the accident was caused by a negligent third party, the pedestrian may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against that party to recover medical expenses and other damages. Ultimately, the specifics of who pays for medical expenses after a pedestrian accident can vary based on factors such as insurance coverage, fault determination, and legal options available to the injured pedestrian.
It’s not always easy to deal with all this by yourself, so it can be a good idea to talk to a lawyer who knows about these things. They can help you understand your options and make sure you get the help you need.
To conclude,
Being a pedestrian hit by car is a serious and scary thing. Knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident can help ensure your safety. Stay calm, seek medical attention, document everything, and consider contacting a personal injury lawyer to help you get the compensation you need. By following these steps, you can focus on your recovery and get the support you need.
So next time you step out onto the sidewalk, remember to look both ways, stay alert, and, above all, stay safe.
