Woman in critical condition after being struck by bus in Toronto’s east end

A woman is in critical and life-threatening condition after being struck by a bus in Toronto’s east end Wednesday afternoon.

Emergency crews were called to the area of Kingswood and Kingston roads, west of Victoria Park Avenue, just after 4 p.m. for a collision.

Police say the woman was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries.

The circumstances surrounding the collision are not immediately known.

Kingston Road was closed between Scarborough Road and Bingham Avenue for the investigation. The road has since reopened.

What to Do after a Car Accident?

1. Ensure Immediate Safety

The first priority after any accident is to ensure that everyone involved is safe. If you’ve been hit by a vehicle as a pedestrian, move to a safe area if possible, but avoid moving if you feel severe pain or think you might be injured. In such cases, it's best to wait for emergency personnel to arrive and assess the situation.

If you’re a bystander or a driver involved in the accident, make sure to set up warning signals if needed (such as hazard lights or road flares) to prevent additional accidents. Call 911 as soon as possible to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Even if injuries appear to be minor or if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. A doctor can identify any underlying issues and document them, which can be vital for both your health and any potential legal claims.

Additionally, prompt medical attention will generate a medical record that provides a clear timeline, which is essential in case you decide to file a claim later. Delays in medical care can be used to question the severity of injuries in a legal case, so make sure to get checked as soon as possible.

3. Document the Accident Scene

If you’re physically able, gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes taking photos of the location, the vehicle involved, any traffic signals or signs, and your injuries. Capture as many angles as possible, and if there were any skid marks or other evidence, photograph those too.

Write down the driver’s information, including their name, license plate number, insurance details, and contact information. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact details and see if they would be willing to provide a statement. Witness accounts can help provide an unbiased view of what happened, which can be essential in legal proceedings.

4. Report the Accident

In most places, it’s required to file a police report following an accident. The police report will serve as an official record of the incident and may include details such as witness statements, the officer’s observations, and any citations issued. Request a copy of this report for your own records. This document can be valuable evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

If you have insurance that covers accidents (like health insurance or personal injury protection), inform your provider about the incident. This helps establish a record of the accident and ensures you are aware of what coverage is available for your medical costs.

6. Avoid Speaking with the Driver’s Insurance Company

While you should report the incident to your insurance provider, it’s best to avoid speaking with the driver’s insurance company until you’ve consulted with a personal injury lawyer. The insurance company representing the driver may try to obtain statements from you that can be used to minimize their liability. If they do contact you, politely decline to make a statement until you have legal representation.

7. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer in Toronto

After addressing immediate medical concerns, it may be wise to consult a personal injury lawyer, especially if you’ve sustained significant injuries. An attorney specializing in pedestrian accidents can help protect your rights, navigate the claims process, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation. Many personal injury attorneys offer free consultations, so you can discuss your case without any financial obligation.

8. Follow Up on Medical Treatments

After initial treatment, it’s essential to continue with any recommended follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions. Not only is this important for your recovery, but consistent medical documentation can further support your claim by demonstrating the impact of the injuries on your life.

9. Monitor Your Health and Mental Well-being

Finally, pedestrian accidents can have lasting physical and psychological effects. It’s not uncommon to experience symptoms of anxiety or post-traumatic stress after a serious accident. If you notice changes in your mood or mental health, consider speaking with a mental health professional for support.

Read more on this here: https://bolandromaine.com/pedestrian-accident-lawyers/