Between the physical injuries and the stress of not knowing who caused your suffering, experiencing a hit-and-run as a pedestrian can be terrifying. Taking the right steps after such an incident benefits your safety, health, and ability to recover compensation.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
Here are some steps to take after a pedestrian accident to protect your health and strengthen your case for compensation:
Prioritize Your Safety and Health
First, ensure your safety by moving away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.
Document What You Can
If you are physically able, try to gather as much information at the scene as you can. Documenting key details can help law enforcement identify the driver and support your case.
Here’s what to look for:
- Vehicle Description – Note the make, model, color, and any distinguishing features of the vehicle.
- License Plate Number – Even partial license plate information can be valuable.
- Time and Location – Record the exact time and location of the accident.
- Driver Description – If you caught a glimpse of the driver, note their appearance or any notable characteristics.
- Witnesses – Ask bystanders if they saw the incident and collect their contact information.
If you can’t gather this information due to your injuries, eyewitnesses may be able to provide additional details.
Report the Accident to the Police
Filing a police report is critical after a hit-and-run accident. Provide the officers with all the details you documented and a clear account of what happened. A police report will be essential for filing insurance claims and pursuing legal action later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, it may provide compensation for your injuries, even though you weren’t in a vehicle at the time of the accident. Review your policy and contact your insurance company to discuss the scope of your coverage.
When speaking with insurance adjusters, stick to the facts and avoid making assumptions or admitting fault. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so it’s best to consult a personal injury lawyer before signing any documents or accepting a settlement offer.
Seek Medical Treatment and Keep Records
Your health should remain a priority. Follow through with all medical treatments recommended by your doctor. Keep detailed records of your medical expenses, diagnoses, prescriptions, and therapy sessions. This documentation will serve as evidence when pursuing compensation for your injuries.
Can Your Attorney Locate the Driver?
While hit-and-run drivers can be difficult to track down, there are ways your attorney may be able to locate them:
- Check for Surveillance Cameras – Nearby businesses, homes, or traffic cameras may have footage of the incident.
- Social Media and Community Boards – Posting about the incident online or on local community forums may prompt witnesses to come forward.
- Work with Law Enforcement – Police officers have resources to investigate hit-and-run accidents, such as searching databases for vehicles matching your description.
If your lawyer identifies the driver, you can file a personal injury claim with their insurer to seek compensation for your losses.
How Hunt Law Firm Can Help
At Hunt Law Firm, we understand the pain and uncertainty that follow a hit-and-run accident. Our compassionate New Mexico personal injury lawyers are dedicated to helping pedestrians secure the justice and compensation they deserve. With nearly 20 years of experience and a proven track record, we will fight tirelessly for your rights. Contact us today to discuss your case, and let us guide you toward recovery.