Being involved in a hit-and-run as a pedestrian can be both terrifying and overwhelming. You're walking along one moment, and the next, you're left injured and confused, trying to process what happened. The key to navigating this traumatic experience is to stay as calm as possible and take decisive steps to protect both your health and your rights.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health First
Your health is the most immediate concern after a hit-and-run. Even if your injuries feel minor at first, adrenaline can mask pain, making it hard to assess the true extent of any damage. Here's what you need to do:
Call for Emergency Medical Help
If you're able to, call 911 immediately. Request an ambulance, even if your injuries seem small. Having medical professionals assess your condition is crucial, as injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms right away.
Move to Safety, If Possible
If you're in a dangerous location, such as the middle of the road, carefully move to a safer spot. However, if you suspect serious injuries (like fractures or back pain), try to remain still and wait for emergency responders.
Document Your Injuries
Before medical professionals arrive, take photos of visible injuries if you're physically able. These images can later serve as vital evidence when filing a personal injury claim.
Seek Follow-Up Care
Even after being treated on the scene or at the hospital, make sure to attend follow-up appointments. Conditions like soft tissue damage or nerve injuries can develop over time and may require ongoing care.
Step 2: Gather Information at the Scene
A hit-and-run often leaves victims feeling helpless since the responsible party has fled. However, you can still collect information that may help authorities identify the driver and hold them accountable.
Look Around for Witnesses
Ask anyone nearby if they saw what happened. Did other pedestrians, cyclists, or vehicle drivers witness the collision? Politely request their contact information as they might later provide valuable statements to law enforcement or your attorney.
Try to Recall Details About the Vehicle
Even small details can be helpful. Did you notice the fleeing vehicle's make, model, or color? Could you catch part of the license plate? Write down or record a voice memo of anything you remember, no matter how trivial it seems.
Take Photos
Photograph the scene of the accident. Capture road conditions, nearby signs, intersections, or tire marks. Visual evidence can be critical in determining what happened.
Preserve Any Damaged Belongings
If your clothes, phone, or other personal items were damaged during the hit-and-run, hold onto them. These items might be used later as evidence to support your claim.
Step 3: Report the Incident to Authorities
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and filing a report with law enforcement is essential. Not only does it help in locating the driver, but it also creates a formal record of the event for future legal proceedings.
Call the Police
Notify law enforcement as soon as possible. Responding officers will likely visit the scene to collect your statement, speak to witnesses, and document evidence. If you're unable to call immediately due to injuries, make sure to report the incident as soon as you can.
Obtain a Copy of the Police Report
Once the report is filed, request a copy for your records. This document will be important evidence when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Provider
Even though the driver fled the scene, your own insurance policy might still provide coverage, particularly if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Reporting the incident to your insurer ensures all avenues for recovery are explored.
Begin the Claims Process
Contact your insurance company as soon as you’re able. Provide them with all available information, such as the police report and any photos or witness statements. They may also assist in investigating the responsible party.
Understand Your Coverage
Ask your insurer about the types of coverage available to you. For example, uninsured motorist coverage can compensate for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found.
Step 5: Seek Legal Assistance
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be legally complex, which is why having a personal injury attorney by your side is invaluable. An experienced lawyer can help you maximize your compensation and ensure no details are overlooked.
Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?
- Investigative Support: Attorneys often work with investigators who can track down security camera footage or other evidence the police may have missed.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Insurers sometimes try to minimize payouts, but a lawyer can advocate for you to receive fair compensation.
- Filing a Civil Claim: If the driver is eventually identified, you may be able to file a lawsuit seeking damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost income.
How to Choose the Right Attorney
When selecting a lawyer, look for someone with proven experience handling pedestrian hit-and-run cases. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, ask about their past successes, and confirm they work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.
Step 6: Take Care of Your Emotional Health
Being involved in a hit-and-run is not just a physical ordeal; it can take an emotional toll as well. Feelings of vulnerability, anxiety, or anger are natural reactions.
Seek Support
Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about what you’re going through. Emotional support can make a big difference in your recovery.
Allow Yourself to Heal
Be patient with yourself during the healing process. Focus on taking one step at a time, whether it’s attending medical appointments, filing paperwork, or consulting with your attorney.
Car Accidents
Ever found yourself or a loved one involved in a pedestrian accident? Kemmy Law Firm, P.C. offers expert guidance to walk you through the legal complexities and emotional hurdles. Our seasoned team, based in San Antonio, TX, brings compassion, professionalism, and dedication to every case. If you’re seeking strength and support in your candid fight for justice, contact us today for a consultation that could be crucial for your journey towards recovery and resolution. Reach out to us at (830) 264-6297 to explore how we can assist in safeguarding your rights and regaining peace post-incident.
