What to Do If You Were Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian in Pennsylvania

Being hit by a car in Pennsylvania can leave you physically injured, emotionally shaken, and unsure of what to do next. Whether you were struck while crossing Broad Street in Center City, navigating the crosswalk at Walnut and 40th near the University of Pennsylvania, or walking along a quiet neighborhood street, you have legal rights as a pedestrian. Taking the right action after a pedestrian accident in Pennsylvania can protect your health and your ability to pursue compensation, and consulting with an experienced Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer can help ensure those rights are fully protected.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Pennsylvania crosswalk accident, here's what you need to know.

Prioritize Your Safety and Get Medical Help

Immediately after the accident, your priority is your safety and well-being. Pedestrians often suffer serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, and internal damage, even at low vehicle speeds.

• Call 911: Report the accident and request medical attention, even if you think your injuries are minor.
• Move to a safe location if possible, especially if you’re on a busy road like Route 30 in Lancaster or near the Parkway in Pittsburgh.

Even if you feel okay at the scene, symptoms like concussions or soft tissue injuries may appear hours or days later. A medical evaluation creates a critical record linking your injuries to the accident.

Document the Scene and Exchange Information

If you’re physically able, gather evidence while you’re still at the scene. This can make a major difference if you decide to file a personal injury claim.

• Take photos of the vehicle, your injuries, traffic signals, skid marks, and the overall area.
• Get the driver’s information: name, contact info, license plate number, and insurance details.
• Talk to witnesses: Ask for their names and phone numbers in case they’re needed for a statement later.

Whether you were hit near Market Street in Philadelphia or crossing Main Street in a small Pennsylvania town, the more information you can gather, the stronger your case will be.

File a Police Report and Notify Your Insurance

A police report is a crucial piece of documentation in any Pennsylvania crosswalk accident. Make sure the responding officer includes your version of the story, and request a copy of the report once it’s available.

Also, notify your own car insurance provider, even if you weren’t driving. In Pennsylvania, your personal injury protection coverage may apply to pedestrian accidents. A Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer can help determine which insurance policies may cover your injuries.

Don’t Give a Statement Without Legal Advice

After the accident, the driver’s insurance company may contact you to request a statement or offer a quick settlement. Be cautious, these early offers are often far less than what your injuries are truly worth.

Avoid:

• Admitting fault or apologizing
• Discussing your injuries in detail
• Signing any forms or agreements without legal guidance

Insurers are looking to minimize their liability. Speaking with a lawyer first ensures you don’t say or do anything that could harm your claim.

How a Pennsylvania Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

Pedestrian accidents often involve complex liability issues, especially in cases where the driver claims the pedestrian was jaywalking or distracted. A skilled Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Prove driver negligence
• Gather medical records and expert testimony
• Negotiate with insurers for full compensation
• Represent you in court if necessary

Whether your accident occurred near City Hall in downtown Philadelphia or in a suburban crosswalk in Montgomery County, you don’t have to go through the legal process alone.

Contact Edelstein Martin & Nelson Today

If you have been hit by a car in Pennsylvania, time is critical. Our knowledgeable legal team at Edelstein, Martin, and Nelson is ready to fight for your rights and help you pursue the financial compensation you need and deserve. Call (215) 731-9900 today for a free case review with a trusted Pennsylvania pedestrian accident lawyer.