If you can, focus on these priorities in the first hours and days after the crash:
- Get medical care—even if you feel “mostly okay.” Some injuries common in pedestrian impacts (including concussions and soft-tissue trauma) can worsen after adrenaline wears off.
- Request the incident details. If police respond, obtain the report number. If you weren’t sure whether officers came, ask for the status—this matters for later investigation.
- Document the scene while it’s still fresh. In Boston, conditions change quickly due to traffic volume, construction, and weather. Take photos of the crosswalk/turning area, traffic signals, lighting, vehicle position, and any visible hazards.
- Identify witnesses early. In busy areas—Back Bay, the Seaport, near transit stops—people may move on fast. Collect names and contact info.
- Be careful with recorded statements. Insurance adjusters may request information quickly. Don’t guess on timelines or fault.
These steps aren’t just “paperwork.” They help build a consistent record for causation and damages—especially when liability is disputed.


