The injuries sustained by pedestrians are generally severe, and the damages are usually specific to the location of the incident. If the pedestrian suffers serious injuries, it is vital to know what to do after the collision occurs so that emergency medical assistance can be provided as soon as possible.
An emergency medical service should be contacted as soon as possible after a pedestrian accident. When pedestrians are hit by vehicles or hit by objects such as sidewalks or other obstacles in Los Angeles, they often suffer internal damage, broken bones, or concussions. There are usually no severe injuries from bruises, cuts, or scrapes. A broken bone, however, can alter the outcome of the pedestrian’s life if not repaired right away. Also, soft tissue injuries can be life-altering if not treated promptly.
Things to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If a pedestrian is hit by a motor vehicle, Los Angeles drivers should know what steps to take to prevent serious injury or death. The following are the 5 things to do after a pedestrian accident:
Get off the Road/ Street
A vehicle should be moved from the street after contacting emergency medical services to prevent further collisions. If the driver gets in touch with the police after the incident, the local law enforcement will explain this to them.
Most states require that vehicles be kept away from oncoming traffic in order to prevent accidents. There is a possibility that the driver will need to wait for the ambulance if the pedestrian gets in the way. Once the support has arrived, an emergency medical vehicle can provide further support and information.
Keep Details in Mind
An accident involving a pedestrian may require the driver to take time to ensure the pedestrian doesn’t suffer an immediately life-threatening injury. However, pedestrians will need to take down all details concerning the driver, such as license plate numbers, insurance data, and other characteristics.
Pedestrians who have evidence of a vehicle license plate number may file a claim if the driver behind the wheel doesn’t stop after hitting them. Traffic cameras may also provide additional evidence, as may eyewitnesses.
Get in Touch With the Authorities
An accident involving an injury or harm to a person will usually require the involvement of local authorities. In the case of a non-stop or non-refusal to stop by the driver, the pedestrian may need to call the police. In general, the police will file a police report regarding the incident, and emergency medical services will provide support and assistance.
A police officer may arrest the driver after filing a report if they have reasonable suspicions that he or she has engaged in drinking or taking drugs. Documents from the report may be used in a civil suit against a driver to prove he or she was at fault or liable for negligence.
Maintain Records and Other Documents
As soon as the pedestrian can obtain the details of the driver, he or she should keep a record of information such as the driver’s insurance policy, plate numbers, registration, and a phone number to contact in case of an emergency. If the pedestrian is injured or there is property damage, the insurance carrier will benefit from this information.
It is important to give this information to a lawyer if the pedestrian is at fault or the carrier attempts to prove that he or she is liable for the incident. If this occurs, it is important to defend against the claim.
The person should ask the police officer at the scene for a copy of the accident report once he or she is not in any medical danger. If the officer is unable to provide a copy at that moment, they may need to travel to the precinct.
A pedestrian should keep safe all documents and records of therapy, treatment, and medication after an incident. For a pedestrian to pursue legal action against the driver, all information related to their injuries is important. People who have been harmed by negligence need to gather as much evidence as possible.
Get in Touch With a Personal Injury Lawyer
In order to pursue a claim, contacting a lawyer is the final step. Besides dealing with the insurance adjuster, he or she will need to gather additional evidence and speak to witnesses about the accident. Additionally, calculating damages may also be necessary to receive the maximum compensation. Siman Law Firm may assist you in evaluating your case and sorting the best strategy for your case.