Being struck by a vehicle while walking can be a frightening and disorienting experience. Even if you feel relatively unharmed, the shock of the incident might make it difficult to take action after an accident. In Maryland, knowing what steps to take could help you protect your health and your legal rights.
Stay at the scene and call for help
If you are physically able, remain at the scene of the accident and call 911 as soon as possible. By contacting emergency services, you may report the incident and request medical assistance. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it might help to seek medical evaluation. Some injuries, particularly internal trauma or head injuries, may not show symptoms right away. The rush of adrenaline after a crash could also mask feelings of pain.
Gather relevant information
Consider collecting as much information as possible from the driver who hit you. This generally includes their name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number and insurance details. If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and phone numbers as well. Their accounts might prove valuable later.
If you are able, consider taking photographs of the accident and the vehicle that struck you. It could also help to photograph visible injuries and relevant conditions such as crosswalks or traffic signals.
Seek medical care
After leaving the scene, it is strongly recommended to pursue medical attention. You may visit an emergency room or your primary care physician for a complete examination. Be honest about all symptoms you are experiencing, no matter how minor they seem.
It might be beneficial to keep detailed records of all medical treatments, prescriptions and recommendations from healthcare providers. These documents help create a clear timeline of the incident, your injuries, your symptoms and your recovery. They could also prove how they are all related.
Document everything and consider legal guidance
It may to keep careful records of everything related to the accident. This typically includes medical bills, receipts for medications, documentation of missed work and notes about how your injuries have affected your daily life. Try to avoid discussing the accident on social media or making statements about fault to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney.
Consider seeking compensation for your injuries
Accomplishing these steps could help you pursue financial reimbursement for the accident. In Maryland, you might be eligible for immediate “no-fault” Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits through your own or the driver’s insurance to cover lost wages and medical bills. This generally applies regardless of who caused the accident, provided that you or the driver has not waived this optional coverage.
Keep in mind that the state’s contributory negligence rule generally prevents you from recovering any money if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, with limited exceptions. Maryland law generally sets a three-year deadline to file a legal claim for your injuries. If this window closes, you could lose your right to seek reimbursement.
Prompt action protects your interests
Being hit by a car is overwhelming, but the actions you take following a crash can affect your recovery. By prioritizing your health and gathering evidence promptly, you may protect your ability to seek financial compensation.