Steps To Take If You Were Hit By A Distracted Driver
On Behalf of The Andres Lopez Law Firm , PA | July 24, 2025 | Uncategorized
Getting hit by a distracted driver can be overwhelming, especially if you're on foot and didn’t see it coming. Whether you were in a crosswalk, on the sidewalk, or crossing at a light, your next steps matter. Acting quickly and thoughtfully after the accident can protect your health and your ability to recover damages. Below are several steps we recommend taking if you’re ever injured by a distracted driver.
Prioritize Medical Attention Right Away
Your safety comes first. If you’re injured, call 911 or ask someone nearby to do so. Even if your injuries don’t seem serious at the time, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries take hours or days to become fully noticeable. Early documentation also creates a clear link between the
pedestrian accident and your condition, which can be useful if you need to file a claim.
Report The Accident To The Police
Having a police report is a key part of documenting what happened. When officers arrive, share the facts clearly and stick to what you know. Avoid guessing or placing blame. If the driver was texting or not paying attention, tell the officer, but don’t confront the driver directly. The report may later support your position if you pursue a legal case.
Collect Information At The Scene
If you're able to move safely and speak with others, gather basic details. That includes the driver’s name, license plate number, insurance information, and contact details. If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and number too. Photos of the scene—traffic signals, road conditions, visible injuries, and the car involved—can also be valuable down the line.
Avoid Discussing Fault
It’s natural to feel shaken and emotional after being hit, but we should avoid apologizing or making statements about who was at fault. Even simple remarks can be taken out of context later. Let the facts and available evidence tell the story. Your focus should be on your recovery and following the proper reporting steps.
Follow Up With Medical Care
Sometimes the full impact of a pedestrian injury isn’t felt until days later. Ongoing treatment helps you heal, but it also shows that you’re taking the situation seriously. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and keep records of appointments, diagnoses, and prescribed treatments.
Keep Records Of The Impact
Beyond medical bills, document how the accident has affected your life. That includes missed work, transportation difficulties, and physical or emotional pain. A personal record of what you’ve experienced can support any legal claim you pursue and give a full picture of how the crash disrupted your routine.
Talk With A Legal Professional
Distracted driving puts pedestrians at serious risk. If you’ve been injured, your first focus should be on recovery, but don’t overlook the legal steps that can protect your rights. Our friends at
Kelso Law remind us that acting quickly, documenting thoroughly, and seeking the right help can make all the difference after an accident. A
pedestrian accident lawyer can help gather that evidence and guide you through the claims process.
