In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, scared, and unsure of what steps to take next. Unfortunately, the choices made in the hours and days after an injury can have lasting effects on your health and on your ability to pursue fair compensation for your injuries.
Too often, victims make simple but costly mistakes that weaken their legal claims or delay healing. By understanding the six mistakes to avoid after a pedestrian accident, you can protect yourself, preserve your rights, and put yourself in the best possible position moving forward. If you’ve been injured, a Florida pedestrian accident lawyer can help.
Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention After an Accident
One of the most important steps you can take after a pedestrian accident is to see a doctor right away. Your body has just experienced a sudden and forceful impact, and only a medical professional can fully assess the damage.
Early diagnosis allows doctors to identify problems before they worsen and ensures you begin the right treatment plan without delay.
Prompt medical attention also plays a key role in your recovery. Following a doctor’s guidance from the very beginning could increase the chances of healing properly and may even shorten your recovery time.
On top of that, your medical records can serve as crucial documentation if you pursue a legal claim, clearly linking your injuries to the accident.
Ensure that you complete all recommended treatment and go to your follow-up appointments. Consistent medical care is not just about healing: it also creates a detailed record of your progress and the true impact of the accident on your life.
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Failing to Call the Police After a Pedestrian Accident
It may feel tempting to exchange contact information with the driver and move on. However, not calling the police is a serious mistake. An official police report creates an objective record of what happened, which can be invaluable later.
The responding officer documents the scene, gathers statements, and records important details that could otherwise be lost. Without this report, your claim could come down to your word against the driver’s.
Admitting Fault or Apologizing for the Crash
In the moments after an accident, emotions often run high. Many people’s first instinct is to apologize, even if they didn’t cause the collision. Saying things like “I’m sorry” or “I should have been more careful” might seem polite in the moment, but these words can come back to hurt you.
Insurance companies and opposing lawyers often look for any statements that suggest responsibility. Even a simple apology could be taken out of context and used as evidence that you admitted fault. This can weaken your claim for compensation, even when the driver was the one who acted negligently.
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Not Gathering Evidence at the Accident Scene
The scene of a pedestrian accident holds important clues that can help establish exactly what happened. Unfortunately, many victims leave without collecting any evidence, assuming the police report will be enough. While the police report is essential, taking a few extra steps can make a big difference in strengthening your claim.
If you are physically able, take photos of:
- The vehicle
- The surrounding area
- Any traffic lights or signs
- Your visible injuries
- Skid marks
- Weather conditions
If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information so they can provide statements to support your account. By being proactive at the scene, you give yourself and your attorney the strongest possible foundation for building your case.
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Talking to Accident Insurance Companies Without Legal Help
You may receive a phone call from the driver’s insurance company within days. Speaking to them without legal guidance is one of the most common mistakes to avoid after a pedestrian accident.
They may ask questions that lead you to downplay your injuries or make statements that can be used against you later. They may also push for a quick settlement, hoping you’ll accept far less than your case is truly worth.
Once you sign an agreement, you usually give up the right to pursue additional compensation, even if unexpected medical bills or long-term complications arise.
Having an attorney handle communications with the insurance company levels the playing field. Your lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, negotiate from a position of strength, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Waiting Too Long to Contact a Pedestrian Injury Lawyer
Time is not on your side. Many people hesitate to reach out to an attorney, thinking they can “wait and see” how their injuries heal or that they’ll only hire a lawyer if the insurance company doesn’t treat them fairly. Waiting too long can seriously weaken your case or even prevent you from filing a claim at all.
Every state sets a legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, which dictates how long you have to bring a personal injury lawsuit.
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is typically three years from the date of the accident. In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the accident.
Missing these deadlines usually means losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case may be. Hiring a pedestrian accident lawyer early ensures legal deadlines are met.
Contact GED Lawyers About Your Pedestrian Crash Today
From skipping medical care to waiting to file your claim, each decision after a pedestrian accident carries weight. At GED Lawyers, our attorneys know the challenges accident victims face, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Our team has the experience to handle insurance companies, help you avoid mistakes after a pedestrian accident, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
You don’t have to face this alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact GED Lawyers today for a free consultation.
