What Should I Do Immediately After Being Hit as a Pedestrian?

Being hit by a car while walking is one of the scariest accidents someone can face. Pedestrian accidents often lead to serious injuries because you don’t have the protection that drivers and passengers do. If this happened to you or someone you love, knowing what to do right away can make a huge difference for your health, safety, and future legal claim.

At Anderson Franco Law, we help injured pedestrians across San Francisco and the Bay Area recover the compensation they deserve. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do immediately after being hit as a pedestrian.

Get to Safety and Call 911

The first step after being hit as a pedestrian is to move out of traffic if possible. Staying in the roadway can put you at risk of being struck again. If you’re unable to move, try to signal for help from bystanders.

Call 911 right away or ask someone nearby to do it for you. Police officers and emergency medical responders are trained to handle these situations. Their reports and records will also serve as crucial evidence later on.

Accept Medical Help at the Scene

Even if you think you feel fine, it’s very important to accept medical care. Pedestrian accidents often cause internal injuries, concussions, or fractures that aren’t obvious right away. Emergency medical providers can check for hidden injuries and document your condition.

If you refuse medical treatment, the insurance company may later argue that you weren’t seriously hurt. Seeing a doctor immediately protects both your health and your claim.

Get the Driver’s Information

If you are able, exchange information with the driver who hit you. This includes:

• Name, address, and phone number
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance details
• License plate number

If the driver refuses to cooperate, don’t argue. Let the police handle it. Their report will document the driver’s information.

Collect Evidence at the Scene

Evidence can disappear quickly after a pedestrian accident. If you’re able—or if a friend or bystander can help—try to gather as much information as possible, such as:

• Photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicle, and traffic signs or lights
• Names and contact information of witnesses
• Weather and road conditions

This evidence will support your version of what happened and help prove liability.

Avoid Talking Too Much at the Scene

It’s natural to feel shaken and want to explain what happened, but avoid saying things like “I didn’t see the car” or “It was partly my fault.” Even simple phrases can later be used against you. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or others at the scene.

Get a Copy of the Police Report

Police reports are often the most important piece of evidence in pedestrian accident cases. They document how the crash happened, whether the driver was cited, and include witness statements. You can usually request a copy from the local police department within a few days of the accident.

Continue Medical Treatment

After leaving the scene, follow up with your doctor. Keep all appointments and follow medical advice. Insurance companies will review your records closely, and gaps in treatment can weaken your case.

Save copies of all medical bills, prescriptions, therapy records, and related expenses. These documents prove the cost of your injuries.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Even though you weren’t driving, your own car insurance or health insurance may play a role in covering some of your costs. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible, but don’t give a detailed statement until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.

Speak With a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accident claims are often complicated. Drivers may deny fault, and insurance companies will try to pay as little as possible. A lawyer can:

• Investigate the crash and gather evidence
• Handle communication with insurance companies
• Calculate the full value of your claim, including medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering
• Fight for the compensation you deserve

At Anderson Franco Law, we understand how overwhelming these cases can be. We take over the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Protect Yourself After a Pedestrian Accident

If you’ve been hit by a car while walking, the steps you take immediately after matter. Get medical help, call the police, gather evidence, and protect your rights by speaking with a lawyer.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact Anderson Franco Law today for a free consultation. We represent injured pedestrians throughout San Francisco and the Bay Area and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.