What Steps to Take Immediately After Being Hit by a Car?

Have you ever thought about what you’d do if you got hit by a car? It’s an unthinkable situation, but accidents can really happen anytime, and it’s good to be ready. Did you know that nearly 43,000 fatal crashes happen in the U.S. every year? Car accidents are far more common than you think.

Being involved in accidents goes beyond the physical impact but costs you time and money too–impacting daily life and routines. This is why early on, it’s recommended that you seek legal advice. 

According to Oceanside car accident lawyer Liam Perry, when accidents are given the right legal attention, you can maximize potential compensation, turning an unfortunate incident into a less burdensome financial setback.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps you should take if you find yourself in this unfortunate situation. These guidelines will make you better equipped to handle the aftermath of being hit by a car.

Assess Your Injuries and Call for Help

Your first priority should be to check for any life-threatening injuries. If you’re able to move without causing more harm to yourself, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid any further harm.

Carefully make your way to a safe location, such as the sidewalk or the side of the road. Once you’ve reached a safe spot, stay there until help arrives or until you’re able to assess your injuries and determine your next steps.

Take a moment to evaluate yourself for any visible wounds, broken bones, or severe pain. Call emergency services immediately. Describe your location and the situation accurately so they can dispatch the necessary help. 

Keep in mind that moving may worsen any injuries you’ve sustained, so if you’re in severe pain or unable to move, it’s best to stay where you are and wait for medical help to arrive.

Lawyers from www.jlwardfirm.com also advise you to seek medical attention as there could be internal injuries that aren’t immediately apparent, and even if you feel fine after the accident. Remember, don’t delay in getting the assistance you need, your health and well-being should always be your top priority.

Exchange Information with the Driver

If your injuries are not severe, the next thing you need to do is exchange information with the driver involved in the collision. As emotions can run high after an accident, do remember to remain calm and polite during this process. By exchanging information, you are taking the necessary steps to ensure that you have all the necessary details for insurance purposes and potential legal actions. 

1. Begin by asking for the driver’s full name and contact information, including their phone number and address. Getting their insurance company name and policy number is also important.
2. Try to gather any witness information, such as their names and phone numbers, as their statements might be valuable later on. 

Document the Scene and Gather Evidence

The key to having a strong case to support your claims is documenting the scene and gathering evidence. You can do these by: 

1. Taking clear photographs of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, any skid marks, and damaged property. Capture any visible injuries you may have sustained as well. 
2. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident occur. Write down their names, phone numbers, and addresses. 
3. Obtain the driver’s information, including their name, phone number, license plate number, and insurance details. 
4. Make a note of the weather conditions and any other relevant factors that may have contributed to the accident. 

Remember, the more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be when seeking compensation or pursuing legal action.

Seek Medical Attention and Report the Incident

Even if you feel fine or just have minor injuries, you need to get checked by a healthcare professional. They can assess any hidden injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Doing so not only ensures your health and safety but also establishes a documented link between the incident and any subsequent health issues. 

Your next step is to report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police or your local transportation agency. They’ll create an official report of the accident, which can be vital for insurance claims or legal proceedings. 

Remember to provide accurate details about the incident, including the location, time, and any relevant information about the driver involved. Follow their instructions too and don’t hold back any information that can be crucial to your claim.

Conclusion

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being hit by a car, stay calm and take immediate action. Assess your injuries and call for help, then move to a safe location to avoid further harm and potential hazards from oncoming vehicles.

Gather any evidence you can and seek medical attention even if you only sustained minor injuries. It is always best to have an attorney by your side who can work tirelessly to ensure you’re getting the compensation you deserve.