Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are a growing issue in urban environments like Atlanta, Georgia. Whether you’re crossing the street, walking on the sidewalk, or simply going about your day, an accident can happen in the blink of an eye.
At Buddoo and Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can have on your life. If you or a loved one has been injured as a pedestrian, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your health, rights, and future. This blog will guide you through the necessary actions to take if you’re injured in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta.
1. Ensure Your Safety First
After a pedestrian accident, the most important thing to do is ensure your safety. If possible, move away from the road or dangerous areas to avoid further injury. Check for immediate hazards such as oncoming traffic or fallen debris that might cause additional harm. If you are too injured to move, stay where you are and try to stay calm.
If possible, alert those around you about your location. The sooner help arrives, the better the chances of preventing further injury or even a fatality.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Once you’ve ensured your safety, the next step is to call 911. In Atlanta, this will connect you to both police and emergency medical services. Reporting the accident to the police is crucial for several reasons. First, the police will document the scene, take witness statements, and file a police report. This report will be essential if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action later.
Emergency medical services will assess the extent of your injuries and provide treatment or transportation to a hospital if necessary. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s still important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show immediate symptoms but can become serious over time.
3. Document the Pedestrian Accident
If you are able to do so, it’s critical to document the accident scene. Take photos of the area, including the location of the accident, your injuries, the vehicle involved (if any), and any other relevant details like road conditions, traffic signals, or signs that might have contributed to the accident. In addition to taking pictures, write down or record any details you remember about the incident, such as the make and model of the vehicle, the actions of the driver, or any other contributing factors.
If there are witnesses at the scene, try to get their contact information. Their statements can be very valuable in proving your case later, especially if liability is disputed.
4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get medical attention immediately after a pedestrian accident. Sometimes, injuries like whiplash, sprains, or concussions may not show symptoms right away, and waiting too long to get treated can complicate your recovery.
Make sure that all your injuries are documented in your medical records. These records will serve as evidence if you decide to pursue a claim for compensation. Follow the doctor’s advice regarding follow-up visits, physical therapy, and other treatments.
5. Avoid Apologizing or Admitting Fault
It’s very common for people involved in accidents to apologize or admit fault, especially when they are disoriented or in pain. However, it’s important to resist this urge. Even if you feel that you may have done something wrong, do not admit fault at the scene of the accident. In Georgia, pedestrian accidents are often caused by a combination of factors, and it may not be entirely your fault.
By apologizing or admitting fault, you might inadvertently damage your case and hinder your ability to recover compensation. Let the investigation process unfold before making any statements about your involvement.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
After a pedestrian accident, one of the most important steps you can take is to contact a personal injury lawyer. At Buddoo and Associates, we specialize in helping victims of pedestrian accidents navigate the legal process and secure the compensation they deserve.
Our legal team will help you understand your rights. We will gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and work to build a strong case on your behalf. In addition, we will handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure that you don’t make any costly mistakes that could affect your compensation.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
When notifying your insurance company, provide them with all the details about the accident, including the car accident police report, medical records, and documentation you’ve gathered.
Keep track of all communication with the driver’s insurance company, as you may need it later if your case goes to trial.
8. Track Your Expenses and Damages
In a pedestrian accident case, you may be entitled to compensation for various types of damages. These damages include:
- Medical bills: This includes both past and future medical expenses related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages and lost earning potential.
- Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for emotional distress, physical pain, and a decrease in your quality of life.
- Property damage: If your personal property (such as a phone, bag, or other items) was damaged in the accident, you can recover compensation for repairs or replacement.
- Punitive Damages: You can seek punitive damages in a lawsuit if the driver committed gross negligence, such as drunk driving.
Keep meticulous records of all your expenses, including medical bills, transportation costs to appointments, and any other related costs. These will serve as critical evidence when it’s time to calculate the total value of your claim.
9. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
To ensure a smooth recovery and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation, it’s important to follow your doctor’s orders throughout your recovery. This includes attending all follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and participating in physical therapy if recommended.
Your doctor’s testimony regarding your injuries and treatment will be essential if your case goes to trial. By showing that you are taking your recovery seriously, you strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving compensation for your injuries.
How an Atlanta Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
Having a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. At Buddoo and Associates, we are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.
Gathering Evidence
One of the most crucial steps in any personal injury case is collecting the right evidence. A pedestrian accident lawyer has the knowledge and resources to gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.
This includes:
- The police report
- Medical records
- Witness statements
If traffic cameras or nearby surveillance video captured the pedestrian accident, your lawyer can obtain footage to support your case.
Settlement Negotiation
Insurance adjusters are skilled at getting people to say things that can undermine their case. A lawyer will communicate with the driver’s insurance company and protect your rights. While insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, your pedestrian accident attorney will negotiate for fair compensation.
Lawsuit Representation
If the insurance company is unwilling to offer a fair settlement, a pedestrian accident lawyer will be ready to take your case to court. While most cases are resolved through settlement, some may require litigation. Our experienced attorneys will advocate for you every step of the way, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Review
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident in Atlanta, it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your health and legal rights. From seeking medical attention to contacting a qualified attorney at Buddoo and Associates, each decision you make can significantly impact your recovery and compensation.
Pedestrian accidents can have a lasting impact on your life, and it’s essential to have the support of a knowledgeable legal team to guide you through this difficult time. At Buddoo and Associates, we are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you on your path to recovery.
