The injuries and harm caused by a pedestrian collision in New York can be overwhelming. If you get hit by a car while walking or jogging, it is critical to know what to do to protect yourself and preserve your legal rights. It is also important to know when to contact an experienced pedestrian accident attorney rather than handling your claim alone.
Report the Accident
Always call 911 to contact law enforcement after getting hit by a car in New York. Report the crash and request paramedics, if needed. Do not admit fault when speaking to police officers at the scene. Give the police your side of the story to include on the police report.
A police report is an important piece of evidence to use during a pedestrian accident claim, as it will contain key details and facts about the collision. Request a copy of your police report from the precinct later for your records.
Get Medical Care
Pedestrian accidents often cause serious injuries, but even if you think you haven’t been badly hurt, see a doctor right away. Your adrenaline from getting hit by a car may be masking pain and other symptoms – including signs of a concussion or spinal trauma. Get emergency medical care without delay. If an ambulance doesn’t come to you, go to the nearest hospital.
Document the Scene
If you are able to do so, collect evidence while you’re still at the scene of the pedestrian accident. Use your cell phone to take pictures of the vehicle that struck you, including its license plate and any property damage caused by the collision. Photograph the surrounding roadway, as well, capturing images of road signs, crosswalks, traffic signals and street conditions. Exchange information with the driver who struck you and any eyewitnesses.
Keep Evidence of Your Damages
To support an injury claim, you will need evidence of your bills, expenses and losses connected to the pedestrian accident. Keep copies of relevant documents, such as emergency room records, x-rays and imaging scans, medical bills, prescriptions, employment and wage records, proof of lost wages, receipts for out-of-pocket costs, and any personal property damage you experienced.
File Your Pedestrian Accident Claim
Once you have a good understanding of your injuries and the expenses they have and will continue to cost you, file your claim. In New York, insurance laws allow injured pedestrians to seek financial compensation from the insurance provider of the at-fault party. You can submit your evidence to the insurer to support your claim.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters
It is generally in your best interest to avoid speaking to the insurance adjuster assigned to your claim. Do not give them a recorded statement or accept a fast settlement. Instead, contact a personal injury attorney in Forest Hills to take over insurance negotiations for you. Your lawyer will know how to deal with adjusters and prevent them from using tactics to take advantage of you.
Contact a New York Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accident cases in New York can be complicated, with challenges such as liability disputes, the comparative negligence defense (blaming the pedestrian), multiple insurance policies and catastrophic injuries. The outcome of your claim and your future, by extension, could be on the line. Hire an experienced and reputable pedestrian accident attorney in New York to take over your case to improve your odds of success.