How to Cope When You Are the Victim of a Pedestrian Accident
Each day you leave your house to go to work, school, or to run errands, you likely have a million things on your mind, things you need to remember, things to do, and a basic plan of how you see the day going. What you don’t bet on is ending up as a victim in a pedestrian accident. Maybe you were out for your daily jog, perhaps it was an after-dinner stroll in the evening, or maybe you walk to work trying your best to make a healthy life choice.
Even when you are careful and aware of your surroundings, unfortunately the unthinkable can happen and before you know it you are a victim. So, how do you cope with such a life-altering, painful, and frankly horrific event? What are the steps you should be taking in order to care for yourself both mentally and physically? Here are some basic tips you can follow that will help ensure you are on the path to recovery.
Get Immediate Medical Assistance
In the moments after being hit by a vehicle, all that matters is your immediate medical needs. If you can call 911 for help, that’s the first step that needs to be taken, otherwise someone needs to call on your behalf.
Call the Police - File a Report
Once your immediate medical needs have been taken care of and you are stable, it's time to document the accident. Filing a report with the police should be step one, as this will act as the official statement and document of the events that took place. You will want to try your best to remember as many details as possible, as even the smallest little thing can end up being important.
It's not uncommon for pedestrians to be knocked unconscious in this type of accident, so remembering details or even a blurry account of what happened can be hard.
Call Your Vehicle Insurance Provider
Here's something that many people aren't aware of, but did you know that even as a pedestrian if you are hit by a vehicle you may have some sort of insurance policy that will offer coverage? It's best to call your provider and speak to them about what may apply to you.
Speak to a Personal Injury Attorney
It's also very important that you contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible following the accident. These personal injury lawyers Hazleton, PA point out that it is the attorney that will fight on your behalf, and who will ensure the driver is held responsible.
Address the Mental Repercussions
For many victims of a car accident, including pedestrians, for those initial days you are running on adrenaline and nothing more. Once the reality of the situation, including the horror you endured, the pain you are in, and the medical issues you are facing all start to settle in, it can do a real number on your mental health. This is why treatment in the form of counseling should also be sought as soon as possible. You are a victim of a traumatic event and it needs addressing.
Taking the right steps will help ensure your healing process is as smooth as possible.
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