The number of pedestrian accidents is rising in some parts of Texas, and it's not clear why.
A recent rash of devastating auto-pedestrian crashes in the Lufkin/Nacogdoches region, for example, has killed multiple pedestrians.
In 2020 there were 4,852 crashes involving pedestrians in Texas. The accidents resulted in 1,211 serious injuries and 731 deaths, according to state data. This is a 9% increase in pedestrian-car accident deaths over 2019.
In the Lone Star State, pedestrian-car accidents now account for about 20% of all fatal crashes.
As pedestrian accidents are becoming more common, it is more important than ever that Texans and visitors understand what to do if they get hit by a car while walking, jogging, or otherwise not in a vehicle.
Weinstein Law is an established East Texas pedestrian accident law firm that has recovered millions of dollars for accident victims. We've put together a quick guide on what to do if you ever become the victim of a pedestrian-car accident.
What To Do If You Get Hit By A Car In Texas
After a bad hit, your first priority is to make sure you are okay. Seek medical attention immediately. If it is safe to do so, and you are physically able, you can strengthen your case by doing the following:
Call 911. In Texas, you are required to report any accident that results in bodily injury or death. If they have not already arrived, call 911 and report your accident to the police. Keep your description of events brief. Tell them the location, time, and basic events of the incident. Anything you say about the accident can be used against you later to determine fault.
Take photos and video. Get photos and video recordings of the accident from multiple angles and distances. Document the overall crash site including the position of the vehicle in the crash, the location at which you were struck, and, if different, the location where you landed. You also want to get proof of any visible injuries.
Identify people involved and witnesses. Get the names and contact information of the people involved in the crash - usually the driver of any vehicle or vehicles involved and their passengers. Write down their license plate number and state from where it was issued. If there are witnesses, get their personal information and contact, too. You also want to jot down what they saw.
See the EMTs. Even if you're feeling "fine," if emergency medical technicians or paramedics are available, let them examine you. It may be possible for them to spot signs of serious damage that you can't feel yet.
See a doctor. After getting checked out at the crash site, see a doctor as soon as possible. A doctor has more training, resources, and time to give you a thorough medical exam.
Say as little as possible. Do not argue over who is at fault. Anything you say while arguing could be used against you. In fact, anything you say to anyone about the accident could be used against you by an insurance adjuster seeking to reduce or reject your legitimate claim. Do not discuss the incident with anyone but an attorney.
Call an attorney. The sooner you take advantage of a free consultation with a Texas personal injury attorney, the better. The statute of limitations starts ticking right away, and your lawyer needs to start investigating promptly.
An experienced car accident attorney handles the insurance companies while you heal. The right attorney will investigate your accident, collect important evidence, prepare legal and insurance documents, keep your case moving forward and meeting deadlines, and negotiate aggressively to get you maximum compensation.
Experience Matters
For more than 20 years, Weinstein Law has fought hard for the rights of pedestrian-car accident victims. We understand how important it is that you get the justice and substantial settlement you deserve to get your life back on track.
Car accident attorney Jeff Weinstein offers free case evaluations to car accident victims and their families. A member of our team will review your case and explain your options. We work on contingency, which means our fee comes out of your final settlement or verdict. If we don't win, we don't get paid.
Our Athens-based personal injury law firm represents all of Henderson County and the surrounding communities. If you were injured in a pedestrian accident, contact Weinstein Law to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.