What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident in New Orleans, LA
Protect your health and rights with trusted legal guidance
The moments after a pedestrian accident can feel like a blur. One minute you’re crossing the street, the next you’re on the ground, hurt, scared, and trying to make sense of what just happened. Between the shock, the pain, and the confusion about what to do next, it’s easy to feel lost. Unfortunately, crashes like these happen far too often in New Orleans. Whether you were hit at a crosswalk or in a parking lot, pedestrians are left to suffer the consequences of someone else’s carelessness.
You might be asking yourself: Should I go to the hospital? Do I need to call the police? Who’s going to pay for all of this? Those questions are completely normal, and that’s why understanding the right steps to take matters so much.
At The Law Offices of John S. Williams, LLC, we understand how devastating these accidents can be. Attorney John S. Williams has seen firsthand how one negligent act can completely change a person’s life. He’s made it his mission to help injury victims get justice and fair compensation for what they’ve been through.
Get medical help immediately
Your health always comes first. Get checked out at the scene by emergency services, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, concussions, or soft tissue damage, may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Getting checked by a medical professional ensures your injuries are treated before they worsen. If emergency services did not check you out at the scene, get a medical evaluation as soon as you can.
Medical records also act as crucial evidence in a pedestrian accident case. They connect your injuries directly to the accident, something insurance companies often challenge. Getting medical attention as soon as possible creates a clear timeline showing that the crash caused your injuries.
If possible, request copies of your hospital visit, imaging tests, and doctor’s notes. These records will be helpful if you later decide to file a claim or lawsuit.
Call the police and get a crash report
In Louisiana, any crash involving injury or death must be reported to law enforcement. When officers arrive, they’ll investigate and prepare an official report that includes important details such as:
- The driver’s name and contact information
- Insurance information
- Statements from witnesses
- The officer’s narrative of the crash
Ask for the report number so you can request a copy later. This report often serves as a foundation for your injury claim, as it documents how the collision occurred and whether the driver was cited or appeared impaired or distracted. Understanding how to read the accident report can help you see the true breakdown of your accident. A pedestrian accident lawyer can assist you in requesting a copy if you need help.
Gather evidence at the scene
If you’re physically able, gather as much information as possible before leaving the scene. Take photos of:
- The vehicle and its license plate
- Your injuries
- The crosswalk, traffic lights, or signs nearby
- Any debris, skid marks, or damage to your personal items
If there are witnesses, politely ask for their names and phone numbers. Their statements may support your version of events later.
If your injuries prevent you from collecting this evidence, don’t worry, an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can often recover footage, witness statements, and other critical proof afterward.
Notify your insurance company
Notify your insurer about the crash as your policy requires you to, but avoid giving recorded statements until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is to look out for themselves, not you. Anything you say can be used against you later. Having a pedestrian accident lawyer handle these conversations prevents the insurance company from taking advantage of you.
After your accident, it’s possible you’ll be contacted by the driver’s insurance company. They might ask for a statement or offer a quick settlement. While it may be tempting to accept, these early offers are almost always far less than you deserve. Insurance companies count on victims feeling pressured or overwhelmed, especially while they’re still recovering. Before signing anything or discussing fault, speak with an attorney who can evaluate your case and negotiate on your behalf.
Follow through with medical treatment
Ongoing medical care is key to both your recovery and your case. Follow your doctor’s recommendations. Attend physical therapy, take prescribed medications, and go to all follow-up appointments.
If you skip treatment or stop early, the insurance company might argue that your injuries weren’t as serious as you claim. Consistent care shows you’re taking your recovery seriously and that the injuries are directly related to the crash.
Your treatment plan might include:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Chiropractic care or spinal adjustments
- Pain management injections
- Surgery for fractures or internal injuries
- Massage therapy or mobility training
Keep copies of all bills, prescriptions, and travel expenses related to your medical care. These can be included in your claim for compensation.
Understand common injuries in pedestrian accidents
Pedestrian accidents often result in severe, sometimes permanent injuries because there’s no protection between your body and the vehicle. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures, particularly in the legs, hips, and arms
- Head and brain injuries, from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and spinal cord injuries, which can cause chronic pain or even paralysis
- Soft tissue damage, such as torn ligaments, sprains, and contusions
- Internal injuries, including organ damage or internal bleeding
Each injury requires specific medical attention, and the recovery process can be long and expensive. A lawyer can help you recover compensation to cover not just your current medical bills, but also future treatment and rehabilitation costs.
Know the value of your pedestrian accident claim
A fair claim should include compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
A pedestrian accident attorney can help you show the full impact of the accident on your life. They’ll help gather medical records, proof of lost wages, and other important evidence so nothing is missed. With the right guidance, you can make sure your claim reflects not just the financial costs but also the physical and emotional challenges you’ve faced, giving you the best chance at fair compensation.
Contact a New Orleans pedestrian accident lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re injured and unsure of your rights. That’s where The Law Offices of John S. Williams, LLC comes in.
We believe every client deserves justice and personal attention. That’s why we fight hard for pedestrian accident victims across New Orleans, standing up to insurance companies and negligent drivers to demand the compensation you need to move forward.
Our legal team listens to what happened and then fights to make things right. If you or someone you love was hit by a car in Louisiana, don’t face the aftermath alone. Call The Law Offices of John S. Williams, LLC today for a free consultation.
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