What Should I Do After a Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident?

What Should I Do After a Philadelphia Pedestrian Accident?

Part of the PhillyLegalConnect Quick Answer Series

Simple answers to Philadelphia’s most common accident, insurance, and injury questions.

Quick Answer

If you are struck by a vehicle while walking in Philadelphia, your first priority should always be your health and safety. Call 911 if possible, seek prompt medical attention, report the accident to the police, and document the scene if you are physically able. Even if your injuries seem minor, some conditions may not become apparent until hours or days later. Preserving information early can help protect both your health and your ability to understand your legal and insurance options.

Key Takeaways

• Call 911 and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
• Report the accident to the police.
• Photograph the scene if you can do so safely.
• Obtain the driver’s insurance and contact information.
• Collect witness names and contact information.
• Save all medical records, receipts, and accident-related documents.
• Follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.

Understanding What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident

Pedestrian accidents often happen without warning and can leave victims feeling overwhelmed. Whether the collision occurs in Center City, South Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, University City, or another neighborhood, taking a few important steps immediately after the accident can help protect your health and preserve important information.

If you are physically able:

• Call 911.
• Accept medical evaluation.
• Cooperate with responding police officers.
• Photograph the accident scene, vehicle, intersection, and visible injuries.
• Obtain the driver’s contact and insurance information.
• Ask witnesses for their names and telephone numbers.
• Keep copies of all medical bills and records.

Many injuries—including concussions, neck injuries, back injuries, and internal injuries—may not produce immediate symptoms. Prompt medical evaluation is important even if you believe you are “okay.”

Learn More on PhillyLegalConnect

Continue exploring related pedestrian accident and insurance questions:

• Philadelphia Pedestrian Accidents
• Philadelphia Most Dangerous Intersections
• Philadelphia Neighborhood Safety Guide
• Philadelphia Injury Playbook
• Uber & Lyft Accidents in Philadelphia: Rideshare, Delivery, and Transit Injury Guide
• 5 Essential photos you should take after a car accident
• Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Pedestrian Accident?
• Slip-and-Fall accident?

What To Do Next

If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident:

• Seek appropriate medical care.
• Follow your physician’s treatment recommendations.
• Preserve photographs, medical records, and other important documents.
• Review your automobile insurance coverage, including any available uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits.
• Learn about Pennsylvania’s insurance laws before making important decisions regarding your claim.