When someone is hit by a car, they can suffer from several injuries, including serious ones. If you can help the victim, do not move them unless it is necessary. Check to see if they are conscious and breathing and if they are not, begin CPR immediately. If the victim is conscious, try to keep them still and calm until help arrives. Here are some necessary steps you need to take if someone you know has been hit in a car accident.
Contact An Attorney
The first thing you should do if someone you know has been hit in a car accident is to contact an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, as well as the steps you need to take to protect those rights. You will need to find a law firm that has had experience with DWI cases and that is familiar with the laws in your state. Additionally, an attorney will:
- Analyze the facts of your case
- Interview witnesses
- Obtain evidence
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Build a strong legal argument on your behalf
- Represent you in court, if necessary
A car accident attorney can also help you recover damages for your injuries. If you have been hit by a car, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, and more.
Get The Police Involved
The next step is to get the police involved. If the accident was serious, the police will likely be called to the scene. However, even if the accident was not serious, it is still a good idea to call the police. This way, there will be a record of what happened in case there are any disputes later on. Additionally, the police will likely file a report, which can be used as evidence in your case.
Gather Witness Reports and Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, it is important to get their information. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony about what happened and who was at fault. Get the names, phone numbers, and addresses of any witnesses. If possible, write down what they saw. Witness reports are important, and if you witness a car accident, your testimony may be very important to the victims. Here are some tips on what to do if you witness a car accident:
- Call 911 and report the accident. Be sure to give them the location of the accident and any injuries that you see.
- Stay at the scene until help arrives. Do not leave before talking to the police or giving your statement.
- If possible, get the license plate number of the car that hit the victim. This will be helpful information for the police and insurance companies.
- Take photos of the accident scene if you can do so safely. These photos may be important evidence in the case.
- Get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Give your statement to the police. Be honest and accurate in what you say.
- Do not admit fault or apologize. These things can be used against you later on.
Get Medical Attention
If you or the victim was injured in the accident, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not think you were seriously injured, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, getting medical treatment will help document your injuries and how they were caused by the accident. Also, be sure to keep all of your medical records and bills, as you will need these to recover damages.
Keep A Record Of Everything
Finally, it is important to keep a record of everything related to the accident. This includes medical bills, police reports, witness information, insurance claims, and more. This evidence will be very important if you decide to file a lawsuit or if you have to go to court. Additionally, it is important to keep track of your injuries and how they have affected your life. This will help you recover damages for your pain and suffering. So, make sure to keep a detailed record of everything related to the accident.
So, if someone you know has been hit in a car accident, there are some important steps you need to take. First, contact an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and guide you through the process. Next, get the police involved and gather witness reports and information. Additionally, seek medical attention for yourself or the victim and keep a record of everything related to the accident. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that the victim gets the compensation they deserve.