Accidentally striking a pedestrian while driving a car is a terrifying occurrence, but unfortunately, it is not uncommon. Over 60,000 pedestrians were injured by vehicles in 2006, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These pedestrians often suffer serious injuries or die as a result of being hit at a speed over 30 miles per hour. It is possible for a pedestrian to be severely disabled after being hit by a car traveling only 10 miles per hour. Drivers often panic after hitting a pedestrian with their car, either fleeing the scene or failing to render aid. If you are ever put in this unfortunate situation, there are a few steps you should follow.
What to do after the car accident
As the driver, there are some things you must be sure to do immediately after a car accident involving a pedestrian. If you stay calm and speak to the right parties, you may be able to minimize your liability and help the injured pedestrian. Drivers should know the basic rules of fault and how to avoid such an accident in the first place. There are several things you will have to do, but the first step should always be to ensure the safety of the injured person. The pedestrian must be moved to a place of safety, and if you are knowledgeable, CPR or other medical treatment should be administered while waiting for help.
Get medical and legal assistance
After assisting the injured person, contact the police, medical care providers, and insurance providers. If you will face criminal charges for the accident, such as DUI, contact a defense attorney as soon as possible. Be sure to give honest statements to the police and insurance agents involved in handling the case.
Exchange contact information but nothing more
If the pedestrian is not incapacitated, exchange your basic contact information such as your name, phone number, and car insurance information. Avoid speaking directly with the pedestrian’s insurance company or attorney. Until you can find legal council, allow your car insurance company to communicate with the other party.
How fault is determined in a car accident involving pedestrians
If a driver hits a pedestrian, the first thing to be determined is fault. Generally, the fault is determined by examining the situation and finding who was negligent. Anyone that fails to exercise a reasonable amount of care in a situation can be considered negligent. Even though the driver struck the pedestrian, it is possible that the pedestrian and the driver were both at fault. For example, if the pedestrian was crossing the street illegally and the driver was speeding, they could both be considered negligent.
Seek the advice of a personal injury attorney
Whether you were the driver or the pedestrian hurt in a car accident, it is wise to seek the help of an experienced attorney. Your car accident lawyer can help you navigate complicated legal processes and help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Enlist the help of an attorney as soon as possible after the car accident. Insurance companies will attempt to make you settle or try to get you to admit fault. The less time you have without an attorney fighting with you, the better.
If you are searching for an experienced personal injury attorney, contact Attorney Dean Boyd today. You can call us at (806) 242-3333 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our services. You can also visit our office at 4423 SW 45th Ave in Amarillo, Texas or 10623 Quaker Ave #102 in Lubbock, Texas for more information about how we can help you.
