Pedestrian Accident Attorney Explains What To Do If Hit By A Car

Our Vancouver, WA law firm can help you every step of the way

When people are hit by a car in a pedestrian accident, they often aren't sure about what to do next. They're hurt, they're angry, and they're frustrated. It can be hard to think straight. The Scott Law Firm, PLLC has provided some steps, below, that you can take immediately following an accident.

If you don't know what to do, the best step you can take immediately following an accident is to call our firm. Attorney Colin Scott founded The Scott Law Firm, PLLC to help victims get the financial compensation they need to get their lives back on track. He works together with his clients to build strong cases that hold negligent parties accountable. Insurance companies have lawyers looking out for their best interests. That's why you need an attorney who will fight for you.

Stay calm

We know this is easier said than done. You will likely feel angry or frustrated about what happened. That's normal. But it's important to keep a level head. You do not want to accidentally say something the insurance company can later use against you.

Call the police

This may not seem necessary. But if you were injured, the police can investigate and make an initial determination of how it happened. They will also fill out a report that provides documentation for your claim for compensation. This report can contain helpful information that may be used later should you decide to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver.

Get medical attention

It's important to seek appropriate medical attention, even if you don't think you suffered any serious injuries. Some injuries don't show any symptoms at first. A medical exam can provide documentation of the injuries you suffered. This makes it more difficult for insurance companies to deny your claim on the basis you did not require medical attention.

Gather contact information

This includes information for the driver, passengers and any witnesses. Ask for full name, address, phone number and e-mail address. Use your cell phone and take pictures at the scene (or have a friend do this for you). Write down the license plate and make and model of the vehicle that hit you. Avoid discussing the accident details with anyone except the police and your own insurance company (should you choose to open a PIP claim, for example).

Take photos

If you are not critically injured and you have a smart phone, take photos of the scene. Include photos of all vehicles involved, license plate, and any landmarks such as street signs. Also take photographs of everyone who is present at the scene or, at the very least, take a photo of their driver's license.

Write it down

Record important details including names, phone numbers, street names, addresses, and so forth. Make sure you save this information in a secure place for access later if needed.

Contact an attorney

Get legal advice as soon as possible. An attorney can review the details of your case and take quick action to gather important evidence.

Drivers involved in a pedestrian accident often don't accept responsibility for what happened. And insurance companies are self-motivated and will frequently offer to pay you as little as possible. They may even make you a settlement offer soon after your accident, before you can even appreciate the full nature and extent of your injuries and required medical treatment. They are hoping you'll accept their lowball offer and go way. But such offers often fall far short of covering the damages to which you are legally entitled.

Attorney Colin Scott can investigate your accident to find out what really happened. When insurance companies see he is prepared to fight for you in court, they may offer you a settlement. But Colin is not interested in resolving a case quickly unless that settlement meets your needs. Our clients make the final decision whether to accept or reject a settlement offer.

If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident, learn more about how we can help. Contact us online or call 360-718-3640 to speak to an attorney during a free consultation.