Pedestrian Hit by a Car: What to Do in the First 72 Hours (Medical, Evidence, Insurance)

If you were a pedestrian hit by a car, the next few days matter more than you may realize. Even if you feel “okay,” injuries can appear later, evidence can disappear, and insurance companies may start building a case against you.

This step-by-step guide explains what to do in the first 72 hours after a pedestrian accident to protect your health, preserve evidence, and protect your potential injury claim.

Why the First 72 Hours Are So Important

Pedestrians have no protection against vehicles. Even low-speed crashes can cause serious injuries like head trauma, internal bleeding, or fractures that don’t show symptoms right away.

At the same time, evidence can disappear quickly, witnesses become harder to find, and insurance companies may contact you fast. What you do—or don’t do—in the first three days can affect your recovery and your case.

Step 1: Get Medical Care Immediately (Day 0–1)

Your health comes first. Call 911 at the scene if you can. If you didn’t go by ambulance, go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor as soon as possible—even if you think you’re just sore.

• Some injuries (head, neck, internal) can worsen over time.
• Early medical records connect your injuries to the crash.
• Delays can give insurance companies a reason to dispute your claim.

Tell the doctor you were hit by a car, where you feel pain, and whether you hit your head or lost consciousness. Follow all treatment instructions and referrals.

Step 2: Report the Accident and Get the Police Report (Day 0–1)

If police came to the scene, ask how to get a copy of the report. If they didn’t, you may still be able to file a report with local law enforcement.

A police report often includes driver information, witness names, and key details about how the crash happened. It can become a critical piece of evidence.

Step 3: Document Everything You Can (Day 0–2)

If you’re able, start gathering and saving:

• Photos of your injuries (bruises, cuts, swelling)
• Photos of the scene, crosswalks, signals, and skid marks
• Vehicle photos, including the license plate
• Your shoes and clothing from the crash
• Names and phone numbers of witnesses
• A timeline of what you remember

Also start a simple injury journal: pain levels, symptoms, sleep problems, and how injuries affect daily life. Small details now can matter a lot later.

Step 4: Be Careful With Insurance Calls (Day 1–3)

The driver’s insurance company—and sometimes your own—may call you quickly. They may sound friendly, but their job is to minimize what they pay.

Until you get legal advice:

• Do not give a recorded statement.
• Don’t guess or downplay injuries.
• Don’t accept quick settlement offers.
• Don’t sign anything.

It’s okay to say, “I’m not ready to discuss this yet.” Early statements are often used against injured pedestrians later.

Step 5: Save All Bills and Records (Day 1–3)

Create a folder (paper or digital) for:

• ER and doctor bills
• Discharge papers
• Prescriptions
• Imaging results
• Therapy referrals
• Mileage and out-of-pocket costs
• Time missed from work

These documents help show the full impact of the accident.

Step 6: Talk to a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer (Within 72 Hours)

Pedestrian accidents can involve serious injuries, complex insurance questions, and fast-moving evidence. A lawyer can help:

• Identify all available insurance coverage
• Preserve video and scene evidence
• Handle communications with insurance companies
• Explain your rights in plain language
• Protect legal deadlines

The sooner you speak with someone, the easier it is to secure evidence before it disappears.

Common Injuries When a Pedestrian Is Hit by a Car

Pedestrian accidents often cause:

• Head and brain injuries
• Broken arms, legs, ribs, and hips
• Neck and spinal injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Severe bruising and soft tissue injuries
• Road rash and lacerations

Even injuries that seem “minor” can lead to long recovery or complications.

What If the Driver Says You Were at Fault?

Drivers and insurers may claim you weren’t in a crosswalk, stepped out suddenly, or were distracted. Don’t argue at the scene. Fault depends on the full circumstances, including signals, speed, visibility, and local laws.

Let evidence—not on-the-spot accusations—tell the story.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I was hit by a car as a pedestrian?

Get medical care right away, report the accident, document your injuries and the scene, avoid recorded insurance statements, and speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Should I go to the doctor even if I feel okay?

Yes. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries show up hours or days later. Early medical records also protect your claim.

Can I still have a claim if I wasn’t in a crosswalk?

Possibly. Drivers still have a duty to watch for pedestrians. Fault depends on the full circumstances.

What if the driver left the scene?

Report the hit-and-run immediately. You may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage, witnesses, or camera footage.

How long do I have to file a pedestrian injury claim?

Deadlines vary by state. Missing them can mean losing your right to compensation, so it’s safest to get legal guidance early.

¿Atienden en español para accidentes de peatones?

Sí. Podemos atenderle en español. Solo pida hablar con alguien en español cuando nos llame o nos escriba.

This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and deadlines vary by state.