Steps to Take If You’ve Been Hit by a Vehicle While Exercising
Being struck by a motor vehicle while exercising outdoors is an all-too-common occurrence. If you’re fortunate, you may only sustain minor injuries; however, a lot of individuals who are hit by vehicles while jogging end up with severe injuries. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual for joggers who are hit by cars to lose their lives as a result of the accident.
If a car hit you, you probably feel rattled, confused, and uncertain about your next steps. It’s normal to feel fear and anxiety following an accident. We’re here to support you by offering a caring ear and practical advice on how to recover damages and safeguard your legal rights.
Actions to Take Following the Accident
Dial 911. The first step you should take, if possible, is to call 9-1-1 and inform them about the accident. Provide the dispatchers with your location, explain what occurred, and mention that you will require medical assistance. If the accident wasn’t a hit-and-run and the vehicle that struck you is still present, give the dispatcher as much detail as you can about the car. Describe the type of vehicle it is (like a sedan, SUV, truck, etc.), its color, the brand or make, the model if you know it, and the license plate number if it’s visible.
Get the Driver’s Information. One important thing to keep in mind is that the driver who hits you might try to leave the scene. If possible, try to get the license plate number of the vehicle. If you can, take a picture of it, or say it out loud a few times until you or someone else can write it down or even text it to yourself. If the driver remains at the scene, avoid arguing with them. You don’t want to say anything that could put you in more danger or anything that could be used against you later. Make sure to collect their license and insurance details while you wait for the police to show up.
Obtain a Police Report. If you are able to remain at the location to obtain a police report when the officers show up, please do. There may be instances where you can’t, based on the severity of your injuries. However, as long as you or someone nearby contacts 911, the responding police officers should generate a police report. The police report will assist in determining who was responsible for the accident. Officers will collect the name and contact details of the driver and will also be able to speak with any witnesses that remain at the scene.
Gather Evidence from the Scene. Once more, this could be something you are unable to do, based on how serious your injuries are. But if you are able, you should gather evidence at the scene of the accident. You can snap pictures of yourself to show any visible injuries, take images of the car that struck you (especially if it has any damage), capture photos of the street or location where the car hit you, and more. Additionally, you can inquire if anyone witnessed the accident and if they would be open to sharing what they observed along with their name and contact details.
Do Not Refuse Medical Care. If you have been struck by a vehicle, seeking medical treatment immediately is crucial. The quickest way to receive medical assistance is by calling 911, so it’s important to do that first. If the Emergency Medical Services team arrives and decides that it’s safe for you to go to the hospital on your own, you can choose to do so. However, it’s still essential to be examined at the accident site and make sure that help is on the way in case you require more urgent medical care. Even if you feel perfectly fine, it’s still crucial to get medical help. Sometimes, injuries might not show up until later, after the adrenaline from the incident fades away. Often, people experience the most soreness a day or a few days following an accident. Moreover, there’s always a chance that you could be dealing with an injury that isn’t visible – like a concussion or even internal bleeding.
Contact the Law Office of Brian Brunson!
Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.
We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.
