What Pedestrians in Los Angeles Should Do After Being Hit by a Vehicle
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By PAGE Editor
The notoriously congested and traffic-heavy city of Los Angeles has seen a startling rise in pedestrian accidents. Los Angeles had the highest number of pedestrian deaths in the United States in 2016 as a result of car accidents.
With such alarming statistics, pedestrians in Los Angeles need to know what steps to take after being hit by a vehicle. Today, we will discuss what pedestrians should do immediately after an accident and how they can seek legal assistance from Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys.
Seek Medical Attention
Before anything else, pedestrians must prioritize their health and safety. Even if you feel OK, it is crucial to get medical assistance because injuries from pedestrian accidents may not be immediately evident. Make an ambulance call or visit the closest emergency room to receive a thorough assessment from a medical specialist.
Contact Law Enforcement
After seeking medical attention, call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is vital to have a police report documenting the incident. This will serve as valuable evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.
Staying at the scene of an accident is essential until law enforcement arrives. Leaving can result in hit-and-run charges, which can complicate the legal process.
Gather Evidence
While waiting for law enforcement, gather as much evidence from the scene as possible. Take photos of the accident location, injuries sustained, and damage to your belongings. Also, try to get contact information from the driver and any witnesses who saw the accident.
Seek Legal Assistance
After receiving proper medical care and reporting the accident to law enforcement, pedestrians need to seek legal assistance from pedestrian accident attorneys. These specialist attorneys can assist you in navigating the legal system and have experience with litigation involving pedestrian injuries.
Understand Comparative Fault Laws
California is a comparative fault state, which means that both parties are held partially responsible. This means that even if a pedestrian was partially at fault for the accident, they may still be able to seek compensation from the driver.
However, determining fault in pedestrian accidents can be complex and requires careful investigation.
Know Your Rights
Under California law, pedestrians involved in accidents are entitled to various protections. These include the ability to pursue financial compensation for medical costs, missed income, pain and suffering, and, in certain situations, punitive damages. However, handling the legal system can be challenging, necessitating knowledgeable legal counsel.
Pedestrian accident lawyers can help you identify your case's best course of action and understand your rights.
Wrap Up!
An accident involving a pedestrian can be frightening and distressing. Nonetheless, by adhering to these guidelines, Los Angeles pedestrians can safeguard their legal rights and obtain the appropriate medical attention and compensation.
Remember to put your health first, report suspicious activity to the police, gather evidence, consult with Los Angeles pedestrian accident attorneys for legal advice, and be aware of your legal rights in California.
Thus, look both ways before you step off the curb the next time you cross the street. Together, let's lower the number of pedestrian accidents in our city. Be cautious when navigating Los Angeles' streets!
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