Pedestrian accidents can be devastating, especially if the driver involved flees the scene. If you’re ever involved in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, it’s important to know what to do next.
In this blog, we’ll cover the essential steps you should take if you’re injured in a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, from seeking medical attention to hiring a Providence pedestrian accident attorney. By following these steps, you can protect your rights, ensure your safety, and obtain the compensation you deserve.
If you have more questions, contact Louis W. Grande Injury Lawyer in Providence today.
Report the Accident
Call the police and ask for an officer to come to the scene. They will take a report, which will be important evidence for any insurance claims or legal action you may take.
Be sure to provide as much information as possible, such as the location of the accident, a description of the vehicle and driver (if known), and any witness statements. Make sure you tell the police officer that you were injured in a hit-and-run accident. Remember to obtain a copy of the police report.
Gather Evidence
Gathering evidence after a pedestrian accident is crucial in maximizing your car accident case for any insurance claims or legal action you may take. Start by taking photos of the scene, including the location of the accident, any damage to your property or the vehicle involved, and any injuries you sustained.
If there were any witnesses, try to obtain their contact information and ask them for a statement. Additionally, try to remember as many details about the accident as possible, such as the time of day, weather conditions, and any actions the driver may have taken before or after the accident.
Finally, if possible, write down the license plate number of the vehicle involved and the make and model of the car. This information will be helpful for identifying the driver and their insurance company.
Seek Medical Attention
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident, seeking medical attention should be a top priority. Even if you feel fine, getting checked out by a healthcare professional is essential. This is because some injuries may not show symptoms right away but could be serious if left untreated.
Documenting your injuries and treatments will also be crucial for any insurance claims or legal action you may take. If your injuries are severe, call 911 or ask someone to do it for you. Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital or urgent care center as soon as possible.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
Contacting a pedestrian accident lawyer is an important step in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and build a strong case for any legal action you may take. They can also help you negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court if necessary. Perhaps most importantly, they will handle your case so you can focus on recovery.
File a Claim With the Insurance Company
If the police are able to find the at-fault party, you can file a claim through their insurance company. However, if the police are unable to identify the person who hit you, you can still recover compensation for your damages.
Your insurance company will investigate the accident and determine whether you are eligible for compensation under your policy. Be honest and accurate when providing information to your insurance company, but be careful not to admit fault or downplay the severity of your injuries.
If you have any questions or concerns about the claims process, don’t hesitate to ask your lawyer for advice. Remember that insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation, so it’s important to have a lawyer on your side to protect your rights and interests.
Go to Court If Necessary
If you are unable to reach a fair settlement with the driver’s insurance company, going to court may be necessary to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Your pedestrian accident lawyer can help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
Going to court can be a lengthy and stressful process, but it may be necessary to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Your lawyer will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance and support as you navigate the legal system.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Louis W. Grande Injury Lawyer
Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. However, by taking the right steps, you can protect your rights, ensure your safety, and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Need help with your hit-and-run pedestrian accident claim? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
Author Bio
Louis W. Grande is a Providence personal injury lawyer who founded his Rhode Island law firm of the same name in 2010. With more than 32 years of experience practicing law, he has successfully represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including car accidents, premise liability, dog bites, medical malpractice, product liability, and other personal injury actions.
Louis received his Juris Doctor from the Hamline University School of Law and is a member of the Rhode Island Bar Association. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being awarded Lifetime Achievement in 2017 by America’s Top 100 Attorneys and being named among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers in 2017.
