What To Do If You’ve Been Hit By A Car

What To Do If You’ve Been Hit By A Car

The thought of getting hit by a car would make anyone grimace.  But these unfortunate accidents are extremely common, especially in Boston given its narrow streets and high number of pedestrians.  Here are some tips to keep in mind in case you ever are (or recently were) struck by a car as a pedestrian.

Collect Information

Be sure to collect as much information as you can regarding the vehicle that struck you.  As well, be sure to obtain full contact information as well insurance information for the driver of the vehicle that struck you.  It is not uncommon for vehicles to flee the scene after hitting a pedestrian.  If that happens, and no information on the vehicle or driver is obtained, you are not out of luck.  In that situation you may file a claim for uninsured motorist benefits with either your personal or household car insurance company.

Call the Police

Be sure to contact the police after the collision with the motor vehicle.  That way the responding officer can arrive to the scene and assess the situation.  Also, the officer can write a police report.  That report will contain everyone’s contact information, insurance information, and the facts of the accident.  Ideally the report also indicates who is at fault for causing the accident.

Get Medical Treatment

Sometimes victims of these accidents walk away unscathed.  Usually however, these accidents cause serious bodily injury.  It is important to obtain prompt medical attention to properly address your injuries.  Sometimes the physical impact to the body can take a few days to set in.
When you obtain your medical treatment be sure to report all of your physical complaints so that your medical records are clear and accurate.  If you later file a personal injury claim these medical records will be carefully reviewed by your lawyer and the insurance company for the person who hit you.

Don’t Speak To Any Insurance Companies

If the insurance company for the driver of the car that hit you starts sending you forms to fill out such as a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) form, or any other paperwork, make sure to not submit any of this paperwork to an insurance company, without first consulting with an attorney. The reason being is that if these forms are not properly completed, then your available rights may be limited.

Contact A Local Pedestrian Accident Lawyer 

With these accidents it always make sense to have representation.  That way your legal rights and interests are fully protected.  Call the Earley Law Group Injury Lawyers today for your free consultation.