Getting medical care, calling the police, documenting the scene, and understanding who’s at fault are some of the seven things you should do after a pedestrian accident. This might seem like a lot to handle, but you don’t have to manage these matters on your own.
Instead, contact a Tacoma pedestrian accident lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours. The sooner you reach out to an attorney in your area, the sooner you can take measures to protect your health, finances, and future.
1. Make Your Health the Top Priority
After a pedestrian accident, the first step is taking care of yourself. Even if you’re able to stand and walk away, don’t assume you’re fine. Many common injuries—including concussions, internal bleeding, and fractures—don’t always exhibit immediate symptoms.
However, they can worsen very quickly if they are left untreated. In Washington State, accident victims often face delays when it comes to seeking care because they’re worried about the costs, or they don’t want to make a big deal out of it.
But your medical records are not only important for your recovery; they can also serve as evidence if you pursue compensation later. Whether it’s an ambulance ride, an urgent care visit, or a follow-up with your doctor, prioritize getting evaluated.
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2. Contact the Authorities
Calling 911 ensures that two things happen: emergency responders can check for injuries, and police can create an official accident report. In Washington, this report becomes a central document for insurance companies and potential legal claims.
Without a police report, it’s easier for a driver to deny fault or claim the incident wasn’t serious. Having that objective record can make all the difference when you’re trying to hold the responsible party accountable.
3. Gather What You Can at the Scene
Understandably, many victims aren’t able to do much at the scene because of their injuries. But if you or someone with you can, try to collect basic information:
- The driver’s name, license, and insurance details
- Photos of the vehicle, damage, and the surrounding area
- Contact information from witnesses
- Notes about conditions like weather, lighting, or lack of crosswalk signals
Even small details—like whether a traffic light was malfunctioning—can become important later.
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4. Understand How Washington’s Fault Rules Work
One of the biggest questions victims have is, “Who pays for my injuries?” Washington is a comparative fault state, meaning responsibility can be shared between the driver and the pedestrian.
For example, if you were in a crosswalk and had the walk signal in your favor, the driver is almost always going to be at fault. But if you were crossing outside of a designated area, an insurer may argue you share part of the blame.
Even then, you can still recover compensation. The amount you receive is just reduced by your percentage of fault. This system makes it especially important to have accurate documentation and evidence to counter any attempts to shift the blame onto you.
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5. Keep Track of All the Ways the Accident Impacts You
Compensation isn’t just about emergency room bills. Pedestrian accidents often ripple through nearly every part of your life. Victims in Washington commonly face these consequences:
- Require time off work or face reduced hours
- Ongoing physical therapy
- Transportation costs to medical appointments
- Need for assistance with childcare or household tasks
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety or PTSD, when walking near traffic again
Keeping a journal and saving receipts gives you a clearer picture of how deeply the accident has affected you. These records help ensure you’re not shortchanged later when damages are calculated.
6. Be Aware of Washington’s Statute of Limitations
According to RCW § 4.16.080, you don’t have unlimited time to pursue a claim. In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents, is three years from the date of the incident.
If your case isn’t filed in court within that window, you likely lose your right to compensation altogether. While 36 months may sound like plenty of time, it can pass quickly when you’re focused on healing and dealing with daily challenges. Acting early keeps your options open.
7. Hire an Attorney as Soon as Possible
After a pedestrian accident, the flood of medical bills, insurance calls, and missed work can feel like more than anyone should have to handle. What many people don’t realize is that the choices made in the days and weeks after an accident can have a long-lasting impact on your case and financial recovery.
This is where having an attorney becomes invaluable because an experienced lawyer knows how to do the following on your behalf:
- Call out predatory insurance practices
- Protect you from tactics designed to minimize your claim
- Make sure the right evidence is preserved before it disappears
For victims, the benefit of hiring a lawyer isn’t just legal; it offers immeasurable peace of mind. Knowing that someone is fighting to protect your rights means you can focus your attention on healing rather than carrying the stress all alone on your shoulders.
Call Dan Next for More Information About Things to Do After a Washington State Pedestrian Accident
A pedestrian accident in Washington can turn your world upside down in an instant. Between painful injuries, financial stressors, and insurance negotiations, it’s easy to feel like the odds are against you, but the Tacoma personal injury lawyers at NextLaw are on your side.
We’ll help you focus on your health, understand the laws that apply to your case, and keep track of how the incident affects your life in the aftermath of the collision. You’re not alone, and you deserve to take control of your own recovery. We’re here to help you do just that.
With more than 100 years of combined experience handling over 150 jury trials and a long track record of satisfied clients, we have what it takes to get you through this tough time with compassion and legal skill. Injured in a pedestrian accident? Call Dan Next!
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form