Yesterday afternoon, while walking in the crosswalk, I was hit by a car.
The person who hit me was turning into the lane.
At that point, she finally stopped.
I wondered later: if Id gone under her car, would she have seen me at all?
I was also lucky to not be injured, because the vehicle was moving at a relatively slow pace.
Still, it was extremely shocking and scary.
Thankfully, the driver pulled over, as did several witnesses.
This is what you should do if something like this happens to youand what I would have done differently.
I have a deep aversion to calling the cops, and I didnt want to see this woman arrested.
But as I calmed down, Ididwant her to be held accountable.
If this is how she drives, the next person in her path might not be so lucky.
Instead, I was told that I could file a report with her insurance company.
I took a photo of her license and plate, but I didnt think to get her insurance info.
This was stupid, but then again, I had just been just get hit by her car.
Also, I wasnt in a car myself, so its not like I had insurance papers to trade.
I was so upset, Im lucky I took it down.
If anyone has stopped to help you or rubberneck, get their phone numbers and names.
you better start building your case right away, and they will be key to that.
Documentation will help you piece things together later.
Get Checked Out
When your adrenaline is pumping, you might think youre fine.
And your adrenaline sure pumps when you suddenly become an NPC in someonesGrand Theft Autogame.
That doesnt mean you havent been injured.
Its possible that if you call the police, an ambulance will end up coming, too.
Even if it doesnt appear to be a medical emergency, you should be checked out.
You may be in shock and not realize you have a head or other internal injury.
So, I didnt.
I know, stupid!
This morning I am a little sore, but I still live.
Go to the doctor for your health and for your records.
Besides filing a report immediately, there are a few other things to know for your insurance claim.
One, dont tweet about the accident!
Of course, I did!
That can be used against you.
You dont have to disclose any of this, and you shouldnt until youve consulted with a lawyer.
They will badger you with emails and phone calls asking for your account.
Dont give it to themyou might accidentally say something that hurts you.
I dropped them on the ground, but it was a nice idea.
If you might, talk to a therapist and be aware of the symptoms of PTSD.
Take Care Of Others
If you see an accident, stop and help where you might.
Help gather the drivers info if the victim seems too upset or out of it to do so themselves.
This is called being a good citizen, and it could make a huge difference in someones recovery.
It made me cry, but that was just the release I needed.
