The Hudson Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the world to go for a walk. From hikes on trails, to the sidewalks of historic streets, to the shores of the Hudson River, there are so many great places for people to walk either for exercise, recreation, or to get to work or errands. However, accidents can still happen, and pedestrians can sometimes find themselves injured after being struck by a vehicle.
How often do pedestrian personal injuries and fatalities happen? According to the Institute for Traffic Safety Management & Research:
| 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dutchess County | 63 Incidents (63 Injuries, 5 Fatal) 25 Incidents in Poughkeepsie, 6 in Hyde Park, 4 in Fishkill | 74 Incidents (71 Injuries, 3 Fatal) 29 Incidents in Poughkeepsie, 5 in Fishkill, 5 in Hyde Park, | 59 Incidents (53 Injuries, 5 Fatal) 23 Incidents in Poughkeepsie, 6 in Hyde Park, 5 in Fishkill |
| Orange County | 93 Incidents (90 Injuries, 3 Fatal) 30 Incidents in Newburgh, 11 in Middletown, 7 in Kiryas Joel | 94 Incidents (91 Injuries, 3 Fatal) 30 Incidents in Newburgh, 10 in Wallkill, 9 in New Windsor | 74 Incidents (69 Injuries, 5 Fatal) 24 in Newburgh, 13 in Middletown, 6 in Wallkill |
| Ulster County | 33 Incidents (30 Injuries, 3 Fatal) 10 Incidents in Kingston, 4 in Town of Ulster, 4 in Marlborough | 29 Incidents (27 Injuries, 2 Fatal) 7 Incidents in Kingston, 6 in New Paltz, 4 in Town of Ulster | 26 Incidents (26 Injuries) 8 Incidents in Kingston, 4 in Town of Ulster, 3 in New Paltz |
In such a scenario, it is essential to know what to do next to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are the top things that you, as a pedestrian or a loved one, should do after being struck by a vehicle and injured:
Seek Medical Attention:
The first and most crucial step for a pedestrian who has been hit by a vehicle is to seek medical attention immediately. Even if the injuries appear to be minor, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately but could be life-threatening if left untreated.
Stay Calm and Call for Help:
If you’ve been struck by a vehicle, it is important to stay calm and try to assess the situation. If possible, move to a safe location away from the road and call for emergency services. It is also essential to remain on the scene and provide information to the authorities when they arrive.
Collect Information:
Collecting information is vital for any pedestrian who has been struck by a vehicle. It is important to obtain the driver’s contact information, vehicle registration number, and insurance details. Additionally, it is helpful to get the contact details of any witnesses or passersby who saw the accident occur.
Document the Accident:
Documentation is essential in any personal injury case, and it is important to document the accident as much as possible. Take pictures of the scene, including the damage to the vehicle and any injuries sustained. Write down any details about the accident, including the date, time, and location.
Contact an Attorney:
After a pedestrian has been struck by a vehicle, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can help the pedestrian navigate the legal process and ensure that they receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
At Mainetti & Mainetti, P.C., we offer free personal injury consultations at our offices in Kingston, NY and Poughkeepsie, NY. Please give us a call at 845-600-0000 to schedule your free consultation.
Follow Medical Advice:
After seeking medical attention, it is important for the pedestrian to follow any medical advice given by their doctor. This may include rest, medication, or physical therapy. By following medical advice, the pedestrian can ensure the best possible recovery from their injuries.
Keep Records:
Throughout the recovery process, it is essential to keep records of all medical expenses, including doctor visits, medication, and any other costs related to the injury. This information can be used to support any claims for compensation and damages resulting from the accident.
In conclusion, being struck by a vehicle as a pedestrian can be a traumatic experience. However, following these steps can help ensure that the pedestrian receives the necessary medical care, legal support, and compensation for their injuries and damages.