St. Petersburg is known for a large population of walkers and bikers who can be seen traveling in the city on foot or using their bicycles every day.
It’s quite natural that accidents occur in a large city and pedestrians are frequent victims of traffic accidents. These accidents can be caused by the mistakes of both the pedestrians and/or drivers.
In a large proportion of cases, vehicle drivers tend to get the blame when involved in an accident with a pedestrian.
Any accident can be a nightmare scenario that can result in minor and/or major injuries, some of which can lead to serious issues. Oftentimes, injuries after an accident may immediately be brushed off as minor injuries, but the victim realizes later that these injuries are more serious than originally thought.
5 Safety Tips for Pedestrians that have been injured in St. Petersburg, Florida
It always is important that you equip yourself with the safety precautions when you are in a busy street and equip yourself with the knowledge on what to do if you find yourself a victim of a traffic accident as a pedestrian.
Stay Calm and Move to a Side Away from the Street
The first thing you need to do immediately after being hit is to stay calm the best you can. It may take a few seconds or even minutes to become calm after the initial shock. However, you must always try to get back to your senses. Move to a side away from the street as quickly as you can because you must not remain on the road if you are wounded. Staying on the road can cause other potential harm.
Call the Police After an Accident
You must immediately call the police if you are injured or have been hit by a vehicle and be sure to report any immediate injuries.
Ask the Driver and Witnesses to Stay There
Always ask the driver along with any witnesses to stay there until the police or other first responders arrive. Having the driver and any witness stay until the police arrive will ensure that a properly documented driver’s exchange will be prepared. The drivers’ exchange will be used later to complete a full police report detailing the parties involved, what occurred in the accident, and possibly who the police officer opines to be at fault. Many people make the mistake of accepting a verbal apology from the driver who then leaves the accident scene. This is a terrible mistake that you can make after an accident because even a minor injury may result in serious problems later. If you don’t file a claim immediately after an accident, you may end up paying medical expenses from your own pocket.
Take Photos of the Scene and be certain the Driver’s information is collected
It is important that photos of the scene are taken. These can be taken by yourself, if you’re able to, or by anyone else at the scene. Photos should include all vehicles involved, yourself, any debris on the road or skid marks, street signs, street lights, intersections, and local businesses surrounding that may have surveillance. It is also very critical that the driver’s information be documented. The police should collect this information, such as the driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, and insurance policies. This information will greatly assist in filing an insurance claim.
Seek Medical Attention As Soon as Possible
You can call the ambulance or ask the driver or a witness to call one if the injuries are serious or you find yourself unable to walk. If the injuries are minor, then you must immediately seek treatment because untreated minor injuries can potentially turn into serious health problems. It is always a good idea to follow up with a physician even for minor injuries to ensure you are in good health and will not suffer from long term injuries as a result of the accident.
Experienced Accident Attorney in St. Petersburg
These are some of the most important things you should do if you are injured in a traffic accident as a pedestrian. If this has happened to you, a loved one, or friend, get the help of a highly-qualified pedestrian accident lawyer in St. Petersburg so that you’ll know the next legal action to take. Contact us at 727-800-5052 for a free legal consultation. Marsalisi Law is Where Law Gets Personal.
