Pedestrians are provided numerous protections under the Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle Law, but motorists do not always follow traffic laws. If you have been hit by a motor vehicle, you may feel anger, sadness, confusion, and fear. The moments following a crash are often the most critical in protecting your health, as well as your legal and financial rights. By taking appropriate steps, you can ensure that your claim is processed smoothly.
At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, we have spent over 30 years assisting injured parties as they attempt to get back on their feet. If you or a loved one has been struck by a motor vehicle, our Lancaster County pedestrian accident lawyers would like to speak with you.
Call 911
Following a pedestrian accident, your top priority should be receiving medical attention. Medical intervention can prevent your injuries from progressing or lasting long-term. Also, spinal cord injuries and brain injuries are not always readily apparent, with tell-tale signs not appearing until hours or days later. By receiving prompt medical attention, you reduce the risk of long-lasting consequences. Also, the insurance company cannot dispute your claim if you have medical documentation of the scope and extent of your injuries immediately after the incident.
Contact the Police
In a motor vehicle accident, Pennsylvania law requires that you contact the police if there are any injuries, fatalities, or if a vehicle must be towed from the scene. The same does not apply in a pedestrian accident. As a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle, you should call the police, even if you suffered only minor injuries.
By contacting the police, you will ensure that a report is filed detailing what happened. A police report is often needed for insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. The police officer who responds to the scene will interview you, the at-fault driver, and any witnesses. Be sure to provide a detailed account of what occurred, but don’t attempt to guess if you are unsure of something.
Gather Evidence
If possible, document everything at the accident scene. Take pictures of the car that hit you, your injuries, and any nearby intersections or identifying landmarks. As for the driver who hit you, ask for their name, address, driver’s license, and insurance card.
Our Lancaster County pedestrian accident lawyers recommend that you take a photo of the driver’s license and insurance card so that you don’t write anything down wrong (which can happen when your adrenaline is pumping). It is important to get down the name of the insurer and the policy number. Also, be sure to take a picture of their license plate number. If anyone saw the accident, ask for their name, phone number, and if they are willing to provide a brief statement.
Contact Our Lancaster County Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Before you notify your insurance company, you should speak with a legal professional. At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, our Lancaster County pedestrian accident lawyers will help in evidence collection to strengthen your case. We will speak with insurance on your behalf, providing the necessary information to support your claim. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, our office can be reached online or by calling (717) 229-6580.