You wake up on the ground with a bunch of strangers crowding over you. You can see the relief spread across their face, glad that you have opened your eyes. They explain a car hit you as you stepped off the pavement. Amidst them is a woman with tears in her eyes, saying sorry, over and over again — the driver.
If you are unfortunate enough to be knocked down by a car and lucky enough to be alive and conscious, these are five things you need to ensure are done:
- Call the police: Hopefully, the driver or a bystander will have already done this. If not, get it done. The law requires a driver who injures a pedestrian to call the police, help where possible, give contact details and wait until the police tell them they can leave.
- Get the contact details of witnesses: The police may take statements from bystanders, but it is useful to have their information to pass to your legal team.
- Get a medical check-up: It is vital to have a professional opinion. Some injuries, such as brain damage, are easy to miss or do not present symptoms until later.
- Call an attorney: The sooner you seek legal help, the better. The driver’s insurance company may contact you to settle out of court. An attorney can make sure you do not fall for an insufficient offer.
Injuries suffered in pedestrian accidents can be life-changing. Even if you feel fine at first, you may face costly medical bills later.