Pedestrian vs. Car: How Walkers Can Get Compensation After An Accident

Posted on: 17 October 2018

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If you were involved in a car accident as a pedestrian, you likely sustained some injuries, even if the driver who hit you was going at a low speed. Cars have enough weight and force to cause substantial and lasting bodily damage, and you deserve compensation to help cover the financial challenges you face as a result. If you are wondering how you can begin the process of getting the compensation you need after a pedestrian accident, follow these guidelines. 

1. Get the name and insurance.

Sometimes, pedestrians who are hit by cars make the mistake of not getting the name and insurance of the person who was driving. You might not even feel hurt, or you are more concerned about getting medical care for broken bones or abrasions. Some people even make the mistake of thinking that because they were walking, auto insurance won't cover the financial cost of the injuries. However, if you are still conscious and able to speak with the driver, this exchange of information is just as important as it would be if you were in a car accident driving a car. Your medical bills can still be covered by the driver's insurance company, and other injury compensations still come from their auto insurance, even when you are a pedestrian. 

2. See a doctor immediately. 

You might not feel hurt with just a bump at a low speed, but even if you feel fine right after the accident, you should still see a doctor. Some injuries take longer to show up, and some problems, like internal bleeding, are not always immediately visible. You can actually have extensive or more long-lasting damage, and an initial examination from a doctor can help your personal injury case if you need to make one. 

3. Make sure a police report is filed.

In order to make sure the accident can be reviewed later on, there should be a report filed. Don't let the driver go on his or her way without first talking to the police because you might never find them again if you need compensation later. Without a report, it's tough to file a personal injury case. The police take down the details of the accident, and they can even take witness statements that can help your personal injury case later. 

4. Contact a car accident attorney, especially if you have any injury diagnosis. 

If you have a diagnosis of injuries, contact a car accident attorney about your accident. You might need their help in negotiating compensation with the other driver's insurance company. If you are involved with getting medical treatment, your attorney takes point on the details that can cause headaches for you. Some insurance companies only offer limited settlements at first, which might not be enough to cover your injuries or your loss of employment because of time spent in the hospital and recovering. Your attorney does more for you than simply fighting in court. They draft the case, make the calls, and collect the evidence that justifies your need for a specific financial settlement amount. Find a local law firm such as Terrel DoRemus & Associates as soon as possible.

5. Keep a daily journal.

Right after the accident, write down everything you can remember, including the time of day, road conditions, where you were going, and how you were feeling. You can also write down everything you remember about the driver who hit you, including if you noticed erratic driving or drowsiness. These details can fade from your memory over time, so writing them down when they are fresh can be helpful. Finally, with long-lasting injuries, including chronic pain, you might not realize from the outset how the injury will affect your life. Writing down how your injury affects you day-to-day activities can help you gauge how much compensation you will actually need.