Authorities report that on July 6, 2019, around 8:25 pm, a woman was hit by a vehicle along Jefferson Boulevard and Stone Boulevard.
She suffered major injuries at the scene and was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The same evening a second pedestrian was hit by a tractor-trailer in the 1700 block of West Capitol. The injuries sustained by the pedestrian were not life-threatening.
It was believed that neither incident involved drugs or alcohol.
What to do if a Pedestrian Accident Occurs
1. Call 911 immediately
If you witness a pedestrian being hit, make sure to immediately dial 911 for medical care and to alert the authorities. If you’re the one hit, you may feel like you’re not injured due to the shock. Don’t wait to call —your body has still gone through a traumatic experience even if you think you don’t feel pain. Sometimes it can take up to a week to feel the effects of an accident. Getting medical attention is the most important thing you can do.
2. Try to document the scene and get information
It’s possible that the vehicle or other items will be moved before the police arrive. Try to take pictures of the scene before anything is moved, if you can. Take pictures of any injuries and damage to property as well. Try to get information of any witnesses as well as those involved. If you obtain this information yourself, it will be much easier than waiting until the police report comes out. Sometimes this can take 7-10 days, if not longer.
3. Don’t discuss fault at the scene or with the driver’s insurance company
You should only stick to the facts of what happened—if you can remember. Many times, things happen so quickly that people don’t remember the seconds before an accident happens. Don’t make something up. If you don’t remember, it’s ok. When you speak with the insurance company, don’t guess. Insurance companies have many different tricks they can use like delay, recorded statements, and a false sense of security, to hurt your claim and find ways to deny it.
4. Call your insurance company to see if you’re covered
It’s possible that you may be covered under your own insurance policy. If you have MedPay coverage, you should be able to use that right away to get yourself looked at. Make sure not to discuss the fault with your own insurance company—only stick to the facts of what happened.
5. Find your options with a free case evaluation from an attorney
Personal injury attorneys almost always offer a free case evaluation or consultation. Pedestrian accident lawyers won’t charge for this initial meeting and they likely won’t get paid unless they get a settlement on your behalf. This is designed to help you figure out what options you may have if you’ve been injured. There is nothing wrong with meeting with a pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss the accident and see if you may be entitled to payment for your injuries, missed time from work, and pain and suffering.
Our firm offers a free case evaluation. We will go through the facts of your case with you and give you an honest opinion of your options. We can be reached at 9166195452, via our form online or email at info@hanecaklaw.com..
