What to Do If You Hit a Pedestrian in a Crosswalk

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If you hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk, you are likely very upset and scared. Take a deep breath and follow these steps. As a driver, it is important to understand what you should do if you ever hit a pedestrian while operating your vehicle.

Help Anyone Who is Injured in Crosswalk

If any person is injured, attempt to move them to a place of safety if it is possible to do so in a pedestrian accident. If an injured person appears to be suffering from a severe injury, never attempt to provide more medical attention than you are qualified to administer. Contact 911 and the police as soon as possible and make it clear that you need an ambulance at the scene. Make sure to help any passengers or other involved drivers, if necessary. Attempt to move the entire scene of the accident away from the crosswalk or flow of traffic to avoid additional injuries, if possible.

You may have been injured in the accident as well. Make sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible for a complete medical evaluation by a doctor.

Exchange Information with All Relevant Parties

After medical help has arrived, and after the police have taken an official report, make sure to exchange contact information with victims and witnesses. Witness testimony may become important if there is a question regarding liability and determination of negligence in the future.

Try not to provide any more information than necessary. Talking extensively with the pedestrian or with any involved party could be detrimental to your case. A simple statement such as “I feel so guilty” or “I am so sorry I did this” could lead to an interpretation of guilt and liability. Avoid speaking at length with the victim or with the victim’s insurance company.

Contact Your Insurance Company

You should contact your insurance company as soon as you can following the accident. Refrain from communicating any subjective details that may imply any kind of guilt. Let them know of the contact information you received from the victim and witnesses. Additionally, you may let your insurance company know if you have any damage to your vehicle that will need repairs.

Determination of Liability in Pedestrian Accident

If you hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk, you may need to determine liability. Although you may have been the driver of a vehicle, there are some instances in which a pedestrian may also be negligent and have responsibility for an accident.

Things to Know About Driver Negligence

Depending on the facts and circumstances of the accident, a driver may be held liable for injuries a pedestrian sustained. If a driver failed to yield the right of way, was talking or texting on a cell phone, was speeding or violating any traffic laws, or was driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may be considered liable for the accident. In the case where a driver is determined to be liable, they may be responsible for the medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the victim. A driver should ensure that they operate their vehicle in an appropriate way without negligence or recklessness.

Things to Know About Pedestrian Negligence

There are some cases where a pedestrian hit by a motorist in a crosswalk will be considered responsible for an accident. For example, if a pedestrian was jaywalking, crossing against a traffic signal, or darting out into traffic, they may be considered partially responsible for the accident.

Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

If you hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk, you may have questions regarding your rights and if you will be held responsible for any injuries to the pedestrian. Contact a Fort Lauderdale pedestrian accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato at (954) 633-8270. We can help you determine your liability during a free consultation and evaluation of your case.

We also help the victims of a pedestrian accident in the following cities: