July 22, 2025

Hit by a Car? How to Start Your Insurance Claim Process

Being struck by a vehicle can be one of the most traumatic experiences in a person's life. Not only does it involve physical injuries, but it also disrupts your emotional well-being and can lead to financial strain. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an incident, knowing how to initiate your insurance claim can significantly alleviate some of the burdens. In this blog post, we will walk you through the essential steps of starting your insurance claim process after being hit by a car, ensuring that you are well-prepared to navigate this challenging situation.

Understanding Your Rights as a Pedestrian

Before diving into the claims process, it's critical to understand your rights as a pedestrian. In many jurisdictions, pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks and intersections unless otherwise indicated by traffic signals. However, various factors such as jaywalking accidents and driver negligence can complicate these situations. If you were legally crossing the street car accident lawyer when hit, this strengthens your claim against the driver’s insurance policy.

Documenting the Incident

The first step in any successful insurance claim is thorough documentation of the incident. This includes:

  • Gathering Evidence: Collect photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and traffic signals. If possible, take pictures from multiple angles.

  • Witness Statements: Gather contact information from witnesses who saw the accident unfold. Their statements may provide valuable insight into the driver's actions and support your case.

  • Police Reports: Always call law enforcement to report the incident. A police report will serve as an official record of what occurred and can significantly aid in your claim.

  • Medical Records: Seek medical attention immediately after being struck by a car, even if you feel fine at first. Injuries from urban traffic collisions may not manifest until days later; therefore, having comprehensive medical documentation is vital for substantiating your claim.

  • Contacting Your Insurance Company

    Once you've documented all necessary information regarding your accident, it’s time to reach out to your insurance company or that of the driver who hit you (if applicable). When speaking with them:

    • Be honest about what happened.
    • Provide them with all collected evidence.
    • Ask questions about what they need from you moving forward.

    If you're unsure about handling this communication on your own or feel overwhelmed with paperwork and legal jargon, consider hiring a crosswalk injury lawyer who specializes in pedestrian cases.

    Filing Your Claim

    Once you have established contact with your insurer:

  • Fill Out Necessary Forms: They will provide specific forms needed to file your claim officially. Ensure that all details are filled accurately to prevent delays.

  • Submit Medical Bills: Submit copies of all relevant medical bills related to injuries sustained in the accident along with any other documentation requested by your insurer.

  • Follow Up Regularly: Stay proactive throughout this process by following up periodically with your insurer for updates on claims status.

  • Understanding Potential Challenges

    While initiating an insurance claim may seem straightforward, be prepared for challenges along the way:

    • Driver Negligence Defense: The driver may argue that you were jaywalking or not adhering to pedestrian laws at the time of the accident.

    • Low Visibility Accidents: If visibility was poor due to weather conditions or time of day, this could complicate liability issues further.

    • Traffic Signal Violations: Any violation on either party's end can affect how claims are processed and settled.

    In such instances, having legal representation becomes even more crucial for navigating complexities surrounding driver negligence or potential defenses raised against you.

    Settlement Negotiation

    After filing your claim and allowing time for investigation and review by both parties' insurers:

  • Review Settlement Offers Carefully: Be cautious when reviewing settlement offers; they may be lower than what is warranted based on medical bills and damages incurred.

  • Negotiate if Necessary: If you believe an offer does not adequately compensate for losses suffered due to pedestrian fatality risks or ongoing health issues stemming from low visibility accidents, do not hesitate to negotiate for better terms.

  • Consider Legal Action if Required: Should negotiations stall or lead nowhere satisfactory results-wise; consult with an attorney about possibly pursuing further legal action against responsible parties involved in causing injury during urban traffic collisions.

  • Questions & Answers

  • What should I do immediately after being hit by a car?
    • Call 911 for help if injured, document everything about the incident including taking pictures and collecting witness information before seeking medical attention.
  • How long do I have to file an insurance claim after being hit by a car?
    • Time limits vary depending on state laws; typically ranging from one year up until three years post-accident but check local regulations for specifics regarding pedestrian rights within those timelines.
  • Can I still file a claim if I was partly at fault?
    • Yes! Most states allow comparative negligence claims where compensation amounts adjust according to assigned fault percentages; however consult an attorney for advice tailored specifically towards personal circumstances involved here.
  • What happens if my injuries worsen after filing my initial claim?
    • You can reopen your case or submit additional claims related specifically towards unforeseen complications resulting directly from prior accidents but ensure thorough documentation supports new findings accordingly!
  • Is hiring an attorney necessary when dealing with my claim?
    • While not mandatory; legal representation often yields better outcomes especially when liable parties dispute claims made which could lead towards prolonged settlements without professional intervention!

    Navigating through an insurance claim process following an accident can undoubtedly appear daunting but understanding each step arms victims with knowledge necessary for securing rightful compensation while addressing concerns around safety violations involving drivers around them as well!

    Aman Sharma is a seasoned Personal Injury Attorney with over 15 years of experience representing victims of negligence and injustice. As the founding partner of The Sharma Law Firm, he has dedicated his career to fighting for fair compensation for individuals harmed in auto accidents, workplace injuries, slip-and-fall cases, and medical malpractice. Driven by a deep sense of justice and compassion, Aman is known for his strategic legal mind, empathetic client care, and a relentless pursuit of favorable outcomes. He has recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts, earning him recognition in regional and national legal circles. Aman received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, where he graduated with honors. He began his legal journey as a clerk for a federal judge, then transitioned into private practice, where his passion for personal injury law flourished. He is a frequent speaker at legal seminars and a contributor to legal publications on topics ranging...