Getting hit while walking can feel shocking and overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the story. I’ve been through it myself, and I know that what you do in the hours and days afterward can make all the difference. With the right steps, you can protect your health, your rights, and your future.
Get Help on the Spot
The very first thing to do is call 911. It brings medical help and the police to the scene. Even if you think you’re fine, let the paramedics check you. The police report they file will be an important record later.
Let a Doctor Check Everything
Adrenaline can hide pain, so some injuries aren’t obvious right away. That’s why a full medical exam is essential. In my case, doctors found an injury I hadn’t even noticed — and catching it early made recovery much faster.
Capture the Details While They’re Fresh
If you can, take pictures of the vehicle, the street, your injuries, and anything else that could help tell the story of what happened. Ask bystanders for their names and numbers. These details can be powerful proof later.
Leave the Insurance Talks to the Experts
Insurance companies often call quickly, looking for a statement. Be polite but firm — tell them your lawyer will respond. This protects you from saying anything they might twist against you.
Work With a Lawyer Who Knows These Cases
A good pedestrian accident lawyer will handle the hard parts: gathering evidence, talking to insurance companies, calculating your losses, and filing all the paperwork. It’s not just about knowing the law — it’s about knowing how to use it to your advantage.
Move Quickly — Time Matters
The law gives you a deadline to make a claim, but waiting is risky. Security videos can be erased, witnesses can forget details, and it becomes harder to prove your case. Acting fast keeps your options open.
Keep Track of Everything
Save your medical bills, receipts for travel to appointments, and records of missed work. I also recommend jotting down how you’re feeling each day and how your injuries affect your routine. It paints a clear picture of the impact on your life.
Don’t Jump at the First Offer
Early settlement offers may sound tempting, but they’re often too low to cover your real costs. Once you accept, you can’t ask for more. Waiting for the right offer often pays off — literally.
Focus on Getting Better
When you have the right legal help, you can turn your attention to healing. Recovery is about more than bones and bruises — it’s about getting back to your life with confidence.
My Best Advice for Anyone in This Situation
- Call 911 and get medical help right away.
- Document everything — photos, witnesses, reports.
- Let a lawyer handle insurance calls.
- Act quickly to protect evidence.
- Keep clear records of expenses and pain.
- Be patient when negotiating a settlement.
A pedestrian accident can shake your world, but it doesn’t have to define it. With quick action, solid advice, and the right support, you can come out of it stronger — and make sure you’re treated fairly every step of the way.
