In calendar year 2021 Arizona recorded more than 2,000 crashes involving pedestrians. More than 1,800 resulted in pedestrian injury and far too many result in a fatality. When we leave home, the last thing we think about is being struck by a vehicle while walking. These statistics from the Arizona Department of Transportation explain why we need to be constantly aware of our surroundings.
Steps to Take After Being Struck – Your initial reaction will range from being frightened all the way to angry. Avoid letting anger get the best of you; the first thing you must make sure of is that you are out of the street and someplace relatively safe. Once you are safe; there are some specific steps you should take immediately:
1) Contact Law Enforcement – Even if the driver has left the scene contact police and file a report. Many think it’s acceptable to file a report after you have received medical attention the reality is you will be told it is too late. Law enforcement should be contacted regardless of how minor or serious your injuries may be. Make sure you give the officer a complete account of the accident from your perspective as this will be critical information later.
2) Get Contact Information Whenever Possible – Attempt to obtain the name and contact information of the driver who was involved in the accident along with witnesses. When possible, the drivers insurance information should be collected as well.
3) Collect Photo Evidence – if you are safe and have a cell phone camera take photographs. Photographs should include an approximate location of where you were struck, photos of the vehicle involved and any other information including street signs that might be helpful. If you are in a four-way intersection, make sure that you take photos of the complete area. While some photos may never be used, they can be very helpful in reconstructing the scene and the accident.
4) Seek Medical Attention – Anyone struck by a vehicle may think their injuries are minor. The reality is anytime you’ve suffered from any surprise like this, adrenaline will course through your body and may to mask the severity of any injury. Safeguard yourself and seek medical attention once you have completed the police report and obtaining any contact information. You should follow any orders by the physician and make sure that you carefully document any injuries and when possible, ask the doctor to photograph all injures, regardless of how minor they may seem.
5) Contact An Attorney – The Law Office of Tammy Carter should be contacted immediately. Tammy will protect your rights after an accident. Arizona law allows you to file suit against a driver who caused your injury for up to two years after the accident. However, if the accident could have been avoided by better signage you may also want to file a civil suit against the municipality which must be done within 18 months.
The foundation of my law firm is integrity, honesty and compassion. I have over 20 years of experience helping Tucson families who are injured because of the careless and reckless acts of others. I help with serious injuries that require serious representation. I am a vigorous advocate for my clients, protect their rights and give them a voice in the court room. Call Tammy Carter Law 24/7/365 at 520-333-7737.