What Should I Do After a Pedestrian Accident in New Jersey?
The steps you take in the aftermath of a New Jersey pedestrian accident are important. It’s in your best interest to act in a way that protects your legal rights while ensuring that your medical needs are met–your physical safety and well-being come first.
If you were struck by a motor vehicle, you might have a viable personal injury claim. A civil lawsuit could provide you with monetary compensation that you need to focus on healing and rebuilding your life. A New Jersey pedestrian accident attorney from Harrell Law Firm can help you consider your legal options. Continue reading to learn more about how to protect your claim.
Stay calm
After a pedestrian accident, it is essential to remain calm and assess the situation. Check for any injuries that may prevent you from moving. If you can, try to get out of the street to a safer location. If you can’t, ask someone to call emergency services and wait for help to arrive. Keeping a clear head and staying calm can help you make important decisions and ensure your safety.
Call law enforcement
It is also crucial to call the police. Even if other witnesses or the driver have already contacted them, you should do so as well. You will need to file an official report about the accident. The police will also notify emergency services, who can check for any injuries you may not be aware of due to shock or adrenaline. It is important to get medical attention even if you do not think you are injured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Collect driver information
Get the driver’s name, contact information, and license plate number if possible. You will also want to secure their insurance information. In addition, avoid talking about fault with the driver. It is best not to apologize, as this can be used against you in court if the case goes to trial. Instead, focus on gathering the necessary information and avoid any discussion of the specifics of the accident.
Seek medical care
If emergency personnel have not yet arrived at the crash site, go to the hospital to receive medical attention. Seeing a doctor and documenting cuts, bruises, or broken bones sustained in the accident, will help support any future claims that may be filed.
Recover evidence at the scene
If conditions allow, it’s also essential to document the accident site by taking pictures with your phone. This will serve as valuable evidence in a court hearing or settlement negotiations. Make sure to photograph the location, the vehicle that struck you, any signage in the area, and other details that might be important to your case.
Contact us at Harrell Law Firm for a free consultation
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact an attorney because effective and experienced representation can help you receive the compensation you need for your losses and injuries. Pursuing legal action related to your injuries might seem intimidating initially, but you do not have to take on this task alone.
Our team at Harrell Law Firm is here to serve as your advocate following a pedestrian accident. We treat all our clients with compassion and empathy and do everything we can to maximize their recovery. If you are considering legal action, now is the time to talk to an attorney. Contact us today for a free consultation. Hablamos Español.
