Attorneys who stand up for victims of pedestrian and bicycle accidents
It only takes one moment – and one driver who’s speeding, texting, asleep at the wheel, under the influence, or just not paying attention – to change your life forever, especially if you’re a pedestrian or cyclist. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, your body takes the brunt of the impact. You’re left in pain, reeling, and wondering what’s next.
Whether you were hit by a car in a crosswalk, on a bike, or while walking down the street, you need to keep your wits about you. Take action to protect your health and your legal rights. The accident attorneys at Vaughan & Vaughan can help.
Call the police immediately and remain at the scene until they arrive
In Indiana, you need to report car accidents to the police, and you need to wait until they arrive. The only exception is if you need to leave to get emergency medical attention. So, if you’re hit by a car, get to a safe location and call 911.
The police will secure the scene, get medical assistance for anyone who needs it, and investigate the accident. This investigation will be the basis of your official Indiana accident report, a key piece of evidence in your claim.
Get contact and insurance information from the driver who hit you
If you’re able to do so, make sure you get the name, contact information, and insurance information of the driver(s) involved in the accident. You’ll need this information to pursue compensation for your injuries. Get names and contact information from any witnesses as well.
If the driver flees the scene (hit and run), then try to take note of their vehicle’s make, model, and license plate. Don’t pursue a hit and run driver yourself; leave that to the police.
Start investigating the accident
Even before the police arrive, you can start your own investigation. Take pictures of the scene, including physical evidence like skid marks, and any visible injuries. If there are video cameras nearby, take note – and if possible, ask the owners to preserve the footage. Video evidence can be key in an injury case.
Get medical attention right away, even if you feel fine
If you were hit by a car while walking, you need to see a doctor right away, even if you feel fine. Your adrenaline is high, your “fight or flight” response is engaged, and you are in no position to diagnose yourself. A doctor can examine you, order follow-up tests, and make sure you’re healthy. Getting medical attention also creates documentation that will support your claim for compensation.
It’s equally important that you follow your doctor’s instructions and put your health first in the days and weeks following the accident. Take your medications as prescribed. Go to your follow-up appointments. Follow your work restrictions and any other restrictions from your doctor. It’s the best option for your health, and it protects your legal rights.
Talk to an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer
When you’ve just been hit by a car, settlement negotiations and litigation are the last things you should be worried about. The insurance companies aren’t on your side. Their goal is to pay as little compensation as possible to people hit by cars. Our job is to fight for you.
Level the playing field with an experienced Indiana pedestrian accident attorney on your side. We know the law, and we have the resources to fully investigate your accident and build a strong case for all the financial compensation you deserve. Our legal team will handle the day-to-day while keeping you informed. This can be a long process, but we’re in it with you, every step of the way.
The key is to act fast. The more time passes, the less time you have to investigate and meet important legal deadlines. If you or a loved one was hit by a car, schedule your free consultation with Vaughan & Vaughan. We can meet with you at any of our offices across Indiana, or we can come to you.
