Your Safety. Your Rights. Your Recovery.
Pedestrian accidents are among the most severe and life-altering crashes on Virginia roads. Whether you were struck in a crosswalk, a parking lot, a neighborhood street, or a busy Roanoke or Blacksburg intersection, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. The steps you take immediately after a pedestrian accident can greatly impact your physical recovery and the strength of your injury claim.
At The Thomson Law Firm, we represent injured pedestrians across Roanoke, Blacksburg and all of Virginia. This guide outlines exactly what to do after a pedestrian accident and how to protect your legal rights.
Get to Safety and Call 911
Your health and safety always come first.
If possible, move out of the roadway and call 911. A police report is essential for documenting what happened, identifying the at-fault driver, and creating an official record for your case.
Even if your injuries seem mild, get medical attention immediately. Many pedestrian injuries—such as concussions, internal bleeding, and soft-tissue damage—may not show symptoms right away.
Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)
Evidence from a pedestrian crash can disappear quickly. If you’re able—or if someone with you can help—collect:
- Photos of the scene, crosswalk, traffic signals, signage, skid marks, and vehicles
- Photos of your injuries
- Contact and insurance information from the driver
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Information about nearby security cameras or businesses that may have captured video
This evidence becomes critical when proving the driver’s negligence.
Evidence from a pedestrian crash can disappear quickly. If you’re able—or if someone with you can help—collect:
- Photos of the scene, crosswalk, traffic signals, signage, skid marks, and vehicles
- Photos of your injuries
- Contact and insurance information from the driver
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Information about nearby security cameras or businesses that may have captured video
Do Not Admit Fault or Apologize
Even casual statements like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” can be used against you by insurance companies.
Stick to the facts when speaking with the driver, police, medical staff, or witnesses.
Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
Follow All Medical Advice
Your medical treatment is one of the most important parts of your claim. Consistent care establishes:
- The severity of your injuries
- The pain and limitations you’re experiencing
- Your long-term medical needs
- Whether you will need future treatment or rehabilitation
Keep all follow-up appointments and follow your care plan exactly as instructed.
Save Every Document Related to the Accident
Start a dedicated file for:
- Medical bills, receipts, test results, and discharge papers
- Photos of your injuries as they progress
- Insurance letters or emails
- Proof of lost income
- A journal documenting pain levels, mobility issues, and daily challenges
These records can significantly increase the value of your pedestrian accident claim.
Stay Off Social Media
Insurance adjusters routinely check social media for posts they can use to undermine your claim.
Even normal photos—such as smiling at a family event—can be twisted to suggest you aren’t injured.
Notify Your Own Auto Insurance Company
Many people don’t realize that their own insurance may help, even if they were the pedestrian. Your policy may include:
- MedPay coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage
- Hit-and-run protections
These benefits can help pay medical bills upfront while your injury claim is ongoing.
Contact an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrian accidents can be complex and often result in severe injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can help:
- Investigate the driver’s negligence
- Obtain surveillance video
- Interview witnesses
- Review police and EMS reports
- Preserve critical evidence
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Pursue the full compensation you deserve
At The Thomson Law Firm, we help victims recover damages for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Long-term or future medical care
- Wrongful death (if applicable)
Why Pedestrian Accident Victims Need a Roanoke Attorney
Virginia still follows the strict doctrine of contributory negligence.
This means that if an insurance company can claim you were even 1% at fault, they may try to deny your entire claim.
This is why choosing a knowledgeable local attorney—like Paul Thomson, licensed in both Virginia and West Virginia and known for fighting insurance companies—is essential.
Call The Thomson Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you do not have to face the insurance companies alone.
Call us now: (540) 777-4900
We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Your recovery is our priority.
Your rights matter.
Let us help you rebuild your life.
