Pedestrian accidents are a serious issue and can cause life-changing injuries or even fatalities. Unfortunately, Idaho is no exception to this problem. According to the Idaho Transportation Department, there were 341 pedestrian crashes in Idaho in 2021, resulting in 307 injuries and 27 fatalities. If you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident in Idaho, it can be overwhelming and stressful. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights:
Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the most important things after an accident. Even if you feel okay, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away but can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Call the Police
Contact the police and report the accident. The police will take down the details of the accident, gather evidence, and file a report. This report can be crucial in determining who was at fault and can be used as evidence in a legal case.
Gather Information
Collect information from any witnesses at the scene, including their names, phone numbers, and addresses. Take pictures of the scene, including any damage to vehicles or property. If possible, get the contact and insurance information of the driver involved in the accident.
Contact an Attorney
Contacting an attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents can help you protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. They can help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident, even if you were a pedestrian and not driving a car. Your insurance company can help you understand your coverage and assist with filing a claim.
Keep Records
Keep a record of all medical bills, expenses, and other losses related to the accident. This information can be used to seek compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
It is important to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all follow-up appointments. Your doctor can monitor your recovery and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Failing to follow your doctor’s orders can harm your health and make it more difficult to seek compensation for your injuries.
Be Careful What You Say
Be careful what you say to the other party involved in the accident, the police, and insurance adjusters. Do not admit fault or say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. This information can be used against you in a legal case.
Be Patient
Seeking compensation for a pedestrian accident can be a long and complex process. It may take time to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong legal case. Be patient and trust the process. Your attorney can guide you through the process and provide you with updates on your case.
Take Steps to Prevent Future Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can be prevented by taking certain precautions. Always use crosswalks, follow traffic signals, and be aware of your surroundings. Wear bright clothing or reflective gear when walking at night, and avoid distractions like texting or listening to music while walking. Taking these steps can help prevent future accidents and keep you safe.
Being involved in a pedestrian accident in Idaho can be a traumatic experience. However, taking these steps can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Seek medical attention, contact the police, gather information, contact an attorney, contact your insurance company, and keep records. Follow your doctor’s orders, be careful what you say, be patient, and take steps to prevent future accidents.
Hepworth Holzer, LLP is a law firm based in Idaho that specializes in personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents. Our team of experienced attorneys can help you with your Idaho pedestrian accident case in several ways:
Legal Advice and Representation
Our attorneys can provide you with legal advice and representation throughout the legal process. We can help you understand your legal rights and options, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Evidence Gathering
Our attorneys can gather evidence to support your case, including witness statements, police reports, medical records, and accident reconstruction reports. We work with experts to analyze the evidence and build a strong legal case on your behalf.
Compensation for Damages
Our attorneys can help you seek compensation for damages related to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We work to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Support and Guidance
We understand that pedestrian accidents can be traumatic and stressful. Our attorneys provide support and guidance throughout the legal process, answering your questions and keeping you informed about the progress of your case.
At Hepworth Holzer, LLP, we are dedicated to helping you through this difficult time. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Idaho, contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case and provide you with guidance on how to proceed.