Pedestrian accidents are predominant in most states, and Florida is no exception. They can result from speeding, aggressive driving, or other circumstances. Some offenders in such accidents leave the scene, complicating the investigation process. With the number of pedestrian accidents rising daily, it is essential to understand the investigation procedure, which helps you identify what is required to facilitate the process. Several very important steps are taken when investigating a pedestrian accident.
Calling the Police
Contacting law enforcement officers is the first step toward investigating any accident. If the accident is not severe, some individuals may decide to agree on a settlement without involving the police. Therefore, it is best to call the police, whether it involves minor or fatal injuries. The police officer will then write a report to document the incident upon their arrival. It is critical not to obstruct the police officer at the scene and allow them to perform their duty such as securing the area and controlling traffic to avoid more incidents. The police also notify emergency services to ensure injuries are taken care of.
Gathering Evidence and Establishing Facts
During the investigation process, the police gather vital information to document. The police officer needs to note when, where, and how the collision occurred. The officer in charge of the investigation also notes the number of people involved and any available witnesses. They need to gather facts about the accident to help with legal matters. If the collision is not severe, the victim can also assist in gathering evidence, such as vehicle number plates, and taking photos of relevant information that can assist during the investigation process.
Interviewing the Parties Involved
The police in charge of the investigation will act as a liaison between the parties involved in the accident. In instances where the accident is not fatal, they conduct interviews with individuals involved. They engage witnesses willing to provide information since many usually provide conflicting information. The police officer must observe the physical and mental state of all parties involved. It helps to identify whether any individual was intoxicated during the incident. The officer notes further about the motor vehicle or instrument that caused the accident.
Protecting Fragile Evidence
It is crucial to protect vulnerable evidence from the crash scene. It can either make or break a litigation or settlement case. The police officer at the scene should look for details to ensure evidence is not tampered with, damaged, or destroyed. Depending on the magnitude of the accident, the officer may not get all the required details for litigation. As a result, it is vital to seek legal advice from a lawyer who can guide you during the investigation process.
Conclusion
Everyone on the road, whether you’re walking, driving, riding a bicycle, etc., faces some type of risk of collisions. With that in mind, an individual must understand how to handle such incidents. Understanding how these collisions are investigated gives you an upper hand in dealing with such situations. You know whom to call and what information to gather to help during compensation or litigation.
