In the wake of a serious pedestrian accident, many people are unsure about what to do. Medical bills may be piling up at a time when they are forced to miss work due to the injuries. Understanding a few steps to take after a pedestrian accident can help Chicago victims maximize their chance of recovering fair compensation.
Seek Medical Attention
Individuals who are hit by a car should always go to the hospital to get checked out. Many people will wait to see if pain appears or subsides, but the best thing to do is be evaluated by a medical professional. However, not everyone realizes they need medical attention immediately. Attorneys often handle cases in which individuals have delayed onset of pain and do not seek immediate medical attention.
It is also important to create a clear record of all medical treatment and the steps the victim took after the accident. If the individual does not follow through with their medical treatment and they later claim they were injured for a long period of time, it may be difficult to convince a jury. If there is a lack or absence of treatment, there is no evidence to support a finding that they were actually injured.
Collect the Other Driver’s Information
The best thing a person can do to collect the at-fault driver’s information is to call the police and have an official police report made. At the very least, a person should exchange insurance information and perhaps take a screenshot of the other person’s driver’s license to document their name and address. It is in the interest of everyone involved to have a neutral third-party like the police investigate the accident and fill out some paperwork. This evidence can be valuable later on when someone is trying to obtain a settlement from the at-fault party’s insurance.
If the other party fled the scene, the best thing a victim can do is immediately call the police. A person should provide the police with any information available, including the appearance of the other vehicle, the license plate number, or a description of the driver.
Contact a Lawyer
Pedestrian accident victims in Chicago should contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Insurance companies for the at-fault party typically try to wrap up these cases quickly, and they often attempt to take statements from the injured person immediately following the accident. While that seems innocent enough, they are looking for ways to use the person’s words against them at a later date.
If the person has not been prepared for this by a skilled attorney, they may not be aware that they are harming their case by providing these answers or failing to articulate the severity of their injuries. A personal injury attorney could help Chicago victims identify the potential risks, harms, and pitfalls they may come across when speaking with insurance adjusters.
Discuss Your Pedestrian Accident Case with a Chicago Attorney
If you were hit by a car in Chicago, understanding a few important steps to take could help preserve your case. When you are ready to hold the at-fault driver accountable and move forward with your case, reach out to a skilled lawyer.
