What to Do If You Were a Pedestrian Hit by a Car in South Carolina
Each year, over 60,000 pedestrians are injured in traffic collisions. By law, motorists must share the road with pedestrians, but sadly, that is often not the case. Given the speed of a motor vehicle, pedestrians frequently suffer serious injuries, including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and abdominal bleeding.
At John Price Law, our pedestrian accident attorneys are dedicated to helping Charleston residents recoup the full extent of their losses. If you were recently walking, jogging, skateboarding, or rollerblading and were hit by a motorist, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Check Yourself for Injuries
In the aftermath of an accident, you may feel frazzled, utterly stunned by what just occurred. Before further action is taken, get yourself to a safe location and scan for injuries. If you have any noticeable injuries or notice any unusual symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, or a sudden headache, call 911 immediately.
Contact the Police
When a motorist hits a pedestrian, the driver will take off before checking on the status of the pedestrian. Even if you only experienced minor scrapes and bruises, you must call the police (whether the vehicle operator remains at the scene). The responding police officer would take down a report detailing the accident’s date/time/location, if you suffered any injuries, and information regarding lighting and road conditions. Any other information, such as if you were in a crosswalk when you were struck, should be provided to law enforcement.
Take Photos or Videos
Taking photos or videos of the accident scene, including the other vehicles involved and visible injuries, can go a long way in proving liability. The more information you can provide from the accident scene, the better.
Compile Witness Information
If there are any eyewitnesses to the accident, you should get their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Witnesses may include bystanders, bicyclists, or occupants of other vehicles.
Speak with a Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
The moment you are hit by a motor vehicle, the legal clock allowing you to take legal action begins ticking. Under SC Code §15-3-530, the statute of limitations in pedestrian accident cases is three years. While it is recommended that you attempt to settle through insurance in most circumstances, the driver’s auto insurer may stall negotiations to run the clock out and bar you from recovery.
At John Price Law Firm, we provide tenacious representation to pedestrians, refusing to let insurance companies give us the runaround. After we gather the necessary evidence to help you file your claim, we are in constant contact with the insurance to check on the status of your claim. Although state law requires insurance companies to pay claims in a “reasonable and prompt” manner, our pedestrian accident lawyers in Charleston, SC, can see right through an insurance adjuster’s tactics to stall your claim. We will do whatever it takes to obtain maximum compensation on your behalf, even if it means pursuing litigation early in the process.
Struck By a Vehicle? Contact Our Charleston Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
If a motorist recently hit you, the legal team at John Price Law Firm is here to help. With over 150 years of combined experience, our Charleston pedestrian accident attorneys have helped thousands of injured individuals recoup six figures and more in settlement awards. If you are tired of getting pushed to the side by the insurance company, do not hesitate to contact our office. To schedule your free consultation to discuss your case, contact us online or by phone.