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About 7,388 pedestrian deaths occur in the US each year. Fatalities from pedestrian accidents have increased by 13% year-over-year. If you’re ever in a pedestrian accident, you need to gather evidence to file a pedestrian accident injury claim.
Making these five pedestrian accident claim errors, however, could cost you compensation.
Read on to discover what mistakes you need to avoid the next time you’re in an accident.
1. Not Calling the Police
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is neglecting to call the police. Don’t allow the driver to pressure you into skipping this step. Contacting the police is in your best interest.
It can ensure you gather the evidence you need to hold the driver accountable if you suffered injuries.
When speaking to the police, don’t embellish or assign blame. Instead, let them know what happened right before the accident. Include the:
- Exact date, place, and time
- Details of what happened
- Injuries you sustained
Let the police know if you noticed the driver behaving erratically before the crash. For example, maybe they were texting and driving. Maybe you noticed a bottle in their hand or they swerved on the road.
Before the police leave, ask if they can send you a copy of their police report. Ask for their name and badge number as well. If their police report isn’t finalized, your lawyer can request it on your behalf.
2. Neglecting to Gather Evidence
Don’t leave the scene of the accident without gathering evidence for your pedestrian accident case.
Get information from the driver, including their:
- Name, address, and phone number
- License plate number
- Driver’s license information
- Insurance information
- Car make, model, year, and color
Write down everything you remember before you start to forget minor details. Gather video and photo evidence of the crash site, too.
If someone witnessed the accident, ask if they’re comfortable providing their name and contact information.
3. Waiting to Seek Treatment
Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Only a doctor can assess your injuries.
Keep track of all pedestrian accident claim documents, including medical bills, treatment plans, and medication prescriptions.
4. Accepting a Quick Claim
Don’t talk to the driver’s insurance company without your lawyer. Avoid accepting a quick settlement as well. The insurance company won’t have your best interests in mind.
They might try to get your claim tossed out, use something you say against you, or send a lowball offer.
5. Not Hiring a Lawyer
Hire a pedestrian accident lawyer immediately after the accident. They’ll collect the evidence you need to negotiate a fair settlement.
If you wait too long, you’ll miss the claim filing deadline. You’ll lose your chance to fight for compensation.
Hiring an experienced lawyer will ensure someone is fighting with your best interests in mind every step of the way. You can find an attorney for car accident cases here.
Avoid These Pedestrian Accident Claim Errors
Don’t let these pedestrian accident claim errors keep you from receiving the compensation you deserve. Instead, work with your attorney to file your claim.
With their help, you won’t have to pay for medical bills out of pocket.
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