Anyone involved in a pedestrian accident should see a doctor immediately, even if they feel okay. Next, contact the police to document what happened. It’s also wise to gather contact information for any witnesses, as they may be helpful down the road, especially when working with a Queens accident attorney.
Pedestrian accidents occur at a staggering rate. The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration explains that 60,000 pedestrians and 42,000 bicyclists are injured in roadway crashes each year. Without warning, something as innocuous as crossing the street or walking through a parking lot can lead to a painful injury.
A busy area like Queens is no different, especially given the traffic density in Long Island City or Astoria. Pedestrians need to protect themselves in the event of an accident, as this plays a major role in not only their health but also their finances and any future claims related to the accident.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
It doesn’t matter if you feel okay — seek immediate medical attention. There might be internal bleeding or some other hidden injury you’re not immediately aware of.
When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Queens, you might have an adrenaline spike, which can mask your pain levels. Something that seems minor can quickly turn serious, which is why you should never take chances and always seek medical care.
Medical records also play a crucial role in documenting the accident. Be sure to follow up with your doctor and don’t miss or push off any appointments.
Call the Police and Report the Accident
The most important pedestrian accident steps include contacting the police and filing a report. You’ll need it later on during the claims process.
When speaking with the police, stay calm. This helps you give them the most accurate information possible. Afterward, ask how you can obtain a copy of the police report.
They’ll most likely need the following information from you:
- Driver’s information
- Witness names
- The location of the accident
All this information is useful down the road. If you’re able to, take pictures of the accident scene. This includes pictures of:
- Crosswalks
- Traffic signs
- Vehicle damage
- Weather conditions
This information helps you remember the accident if your memory is a little fuzzy later, and it also supports insurance claims.
Gather Evidence While the Scene Is Fresh
The best thing you can do is write down everything after the accident happens and after you seek medical care. You should write down the following while it’s still fresh in your mind:
- The direction the vehicle was traveling
- Any weather conditions at the time
- Road hazards, if any
- Anything the driver said or did after the accident
If you have witnesses, use them. Try to get their contact information. If they took photos, ask for them.
Depending on where you are, there may be traffic cameras with footage. Just remember to work quickly. When you hesitate, you run the risk of footage being deleted before you can access it.
Be Careful When Speaking With Insurance Companies
It’s normal for insurance adjusters to contact you shortly after an accident. They might need a recorded statement about what happened or ask you to sign documents about the accident.
You need to understand what you’re signing and agreeing to before doing anything. Pedestrian accidents involve more than one insurance company, which means you may need to answer questions to determine who’s liable.
As part of NY pedestrian safety tips following an accident, always keep records, including:
- Medical bills
- Receipts
- Appointment summaries
Any information and communication you have about the accident should be kept somewhere secure. You never know when you’ll need accident aftermath guidance down the road, whether you’re a pedestrian or a cyclist in Queens. If you’re unsure what to say to an insurance company, seek professional guidance from a lawyer ahead of time.
How a Queens Injury Lawyer Can Help
A pedestrian accident alone can cause anyone to feel overwhelmed, but the follow-up paperwork, phone calls, and doctor’s appointments can all add to your stress. When this happens, an attorney may be helpful, as they can assist you in sorting through the facts of the accident.
They may also be able to speak with insurance companies on your behalf, especially if you’re unsure of what to say. Lawyers also gather information that may support your claim.
More importantly, lawyers are there to answer questions. They understand the whole legal process is confusing, which is why they assist you with all the necessary steps for your specific case. Since each case is different, speaking with an attorney about legal advice for pedestrians can help you understand your available options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident?
Always move to a safe spot. Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Take photos and collect witness contact information to help determine who was at fault.
Who Pays for Medical Bills in a No-Fault State?
New York is a no-fault insurance state. Medical expenses are typically covered by no-fault insurance. It doesn’t matter who caused the accident.
The issue is that pedestrian accidents can be more complex, especially when the injuries are severe or multiple insurance policies are involved.
How Long After an Accident Can You File a Claim in NY?
The type of claim you have plays a role in how long you have to file. The same goes for parties involved.
The statute of limitations also affects personal injury claims, which means you may have less time to file. Every situation is unique, which is why you should contact a trusted attorney as soon as possible.
Working With a Queens Accident Attorney
A Queens accident attorney can help you understand your rights, how to file a claim, and evaluate the potential damages available under New York law. Once you seek medical attention, gather all documents. This includes medical records and police reports, as it can help your attorney build a case.
At Pinkhas Law, we take a hands-on approach to every case. Every pedestrian accident is different, and potential outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. That’s why we keep clients informed of case updates at every step.
If you’re ready to discuss a pedestrian accident claim, schedule a consultation today.
Attorney Advertising
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome