What to Do After Being Hit by a Car

The First Minutes After Being Hit

The moments after being struck by a vehicle are critical for both your health and any future legal claim. Here's what you need to know.

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Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess

If you're conscious after being hit:
- Don't try to get up immediately
- Check yourself for obvious injuries
- Be aware that adrenaline may mask serious injuries
- Wait for emergency responders if seriously hurt

**Warning:** Many pedestrian accident victims have walked around with broken bones, internal bleeding, or head injuries they couldn't feel due to shock.

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Step 2: Get to Safety (If Possible)

If you can safely move:
- Get to the sidewalk or out of traffic
- Don't try to chase the vehicle if they flee
- Find a safe spot to wait for help

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Step 3: Call 911

Always call police, even for "minor" accidents:
- Creates official documentation
- EMTs can identify hidden injuries
- Police report crucial for insurance claims
- Driver cannot later deny the accident

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Step 4: Gather Evidence

If physically able:
- Photograph everything at the scene
- Get the driver's information
- Ask witnesses to stay or get their contact info
- Note traffic signals, weather, lighting

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Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay:
- Adrenaline masks pain
- Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent
- Head injuries often have delayed symptoms
- Medical records link injuries to accident

Days After the Accident

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Follow Up With Doctors
- See your primary care physician within 48 hours
- Follow all recommended treatments
- Don't skip appointments

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Protect Your Rights
- Don't give statements to the other driver's insurance
- Contact a pedestrian accident attorney
- Keep a daily journal of your recovery
- Save every receipt and document

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Avoid These Mistakes
- Posting about the accident on social media
- Accepting quick settlement offers
- Signing medical authorization forms from insurance
- Missing medical appointments