It’s a situation no one wants to imagine: you’re driving, maybe turning a corner or navigating a narrow street, and suddenly, you feel a bump, hear a shout, or see someone stumble. You’ve sideswiped a pedestrian, and now need the guidance of a criminal defense Attorney Glendale. Your heart races, panic sets in, and your mind spins with questions. What do I do? Am I going to be arrested? While it’s terrifying, staying calm and taking the right steps can make all the difference for the injured person and yourself. Here’s exactly what you should do if you accidentally hit someone with your vehicle.
1. Stop Immediately and Ensure Safety
First things first: stop your vehicle right away. Do not drive off, even if the contact seems minor. Leaving the scene of an accident involving a pedestrian can be considered hit-and-run, a criminal offense that could result in serious legal consequences, even if the injury appears insignificant.
Turn on your hazard lights; if it’s safe, exit your vehicle and approach the person cautiously.
2. Check on the Person You Hit
Ask the pedestrian if they’re okay, but don’t move them unless they’re in immediate danger (like lying in the middle of the road). If there is any doubt about their condition, call 911 immediately. It’s always better to have emergency medical services assess the situation, even if injuries appear minor.
Stay with the person until help arrives. If they’re conscious and able to talk, keep them calm while you wait.
3. Call the Police and Report the Incident
Even if the pedestrian says they’re fine or brushes it off, it’s crucial to report the incident to the police. A formal report creates a legal record of what happened and protects both parties. The officer will document the scene, gather witness statements, and assess whether any traffic violations occurred.
Resist the urge to negotiate or settle things privately. Doing so could backfire if the person later files a claim or accuses you of fleeing the scene.
4. Exchange Information
Just like in a car accident, you’ll need to provide your:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
- Vehicle registration details
If the pedestrian is lucid, get their name and contact information. Also, gather the names and numbers of witnesses who saw what happened sideswiped a pedestrian. Their accounts could be essential later on.
5. Document Everything You Can
Use your phone to take photos of:
- The location and surroundings
- Any visible injuries (with permission)
- Your vehicle (especially any contact points)
- Road signs, lighting, and traffic signals
If a police report is filed, ask how and when you can obtain a copy. Write down the responding officer’s name and badge number sideswiped a pedestrian.
6. Contact Your Insurance Provider
Even if you’re unsure whether a claim will be filed, inform your auto insurance company about the incident. Being transparent early can help you avoid complications down the road.
Provide the facts, not assumptions. Let your insurer handle communication with the other party’s representatives if they pursue a claim sideswiped a pedestrian.
7. Don’t Assume It’s Over—Stay Proactive
Even if the pedestrian walks away seemingly uninjured, issues such as delayed medical symptoms or legal action may arise later. That’s why documentation and official reporting are so vital. Monitor your insurance account and stay alert for any incoming correspondence.
It’s also good to write down your recollection of the incident while it’s still fresh—what happened before, during, and after. That can be invaluable if you’re later questioned or need to defend yourself.
Final Thoughts: A Scary Moment, a Serious Responsibility
Accidentally sideswiping a person is a deeply unsettling experience, but how you handle it makes all the difference. Prioritizing safety, staying at the scene, reporting the incident properly, and documenting everything protects the injured party and your future. If there’s any risk of being accused of negligence, reckless driving, or hit-and-run, don’t try to navigate it alone. Speaking with a qualified criminal defense Attorney Glendale can help you understand your legal rights, respond appropriately to any charges, and ensure one moment doesn’t define your life.
