4 Crucial Steps to Take Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident

Insight From Our Long Island Pedestrian Accident Attorney

To prevent a pedestrian accident, make sure you or your loved one is always aware of their surroundings when walking. If anyone you know has been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a Long Island Pedestrian Accident Attorney. 

At the Law Offices of Winkler Kurtz, LLP, we understand that accidents can happen no matter how careful you may be. It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but if there is ever a time it’s best to be prepared, it’s right after an accident. That’s why we suggest you work with our Long Island Pedestrian Accident Attorney for assistance. 

Here are five key steps to take immediately following a pedestrian accident.

Investigating the Scene of the Accident

The first thing you want to do is make sure everyone involved in the accident is okay. If some injuries or damages need immediate attention, be sure to call 911 for medical assistance.

After you’ve located all parties involved in the accident, gather as much information as possible about what happened. This includes taking pictures of the scene and writing down any statements made by witnesses or drivers. It would help if you also asked for names and contact information from anyone who saw what transpired.

Preventing Identity Theft

One of the most important steps you can take after a pedestrian accident is to prevent identity theft. You’ll want to make sure that your social security number and contact information do not fall into the wrong hands. You can contact a Long Island Pedestrian Accident Attorney for assistance with that information.

Before leaving the scene of an accident, ask for any drivers’ personal information such as driver’s license number and the insurance company. Then, call your cell phone provider immediately to place a password on your phone account. This will prevent anyone from using your phone if it is recovered.

You should also immediately contact the police and ask them to report. You can then give this information to your insurance company when filing a claim form.

Protecting Your Rights

It’s essential you know your rights in the state you live in. You might be entitled to financial compensation for medical costs, vehicle damage, and pain and suffering if the driver who hit you was negligent.

Unfortunately, if you don’t know your rights, it’s straightforward for insurance companies to take advantage of you. Ensure you contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you determine your rights and how to protect them.

In some states, the police have a set period where they need to get a copy of the accident report. Make sure you get this report before it expires so that you have access to all the crucial information.

Getting Your Medical Care

After an accident, you must get the medical treatment you need. It may be awkward to tell someone that you were in an accident, but leaving your injuries untreated can lead to even more significant problems.

It’s best to contact your primary care physician first to see if they can treat your injuries or provide you with a referral.