Can I Report to the Police if a Car Almost Hit Me When I Was Crossing the Street in a Pedestrian Light?

Reporting a car nearly hitting you while crossing the street can be a concern, but it's important to understand the legal and practical implications of such a situation. While you have the right to report it, the outcome and follow-up actions may vary depending on the circumstances.

Legal Considerations

According to most legal systems, unless the incident involves clear evidence of premeditation or recklessness, there might not be substantial actions taken by the police. Here are some details to consider:

Premeditation and Recklessness: Unless you can prove that the driver's behavior was premeditated or extremely reckless, the incident might go unaddressed. Video Evidence: Having video evidence, such as from a security camera or a smartphone, can greatly strengthen your case and increase the chances of a follow-up investigation. No Damage, No Accident: If there was no damage and no injuries, the incident may not be considered an accident. In such cases, reporting it may not have practical consequences.

Steps to Take

Here are the steps you can take if you feel a report should be made:

Step 1: Collect Evidence

Witnesses: Try to gather information from any witnesses who might have seen the incident. Licence Plate Number: If you can obtain the licence plate number, report it to the police. Location and Time: Note down the exact location and time of the incident.

Step 2: Report the Incident

You can report the incident to the non-emergency line. Provide details such as:

The location and intersection where the incident occurred. The direction the driver was heading. The make, model, and color of the vehicle, if you can identify it.

Step 3: Reflect and Improve

Even if the police do not take any immediate action, reflecting on the incident can help you improve your behavior in future. Ask yourself:

Were you distracted by your phone or music? Did you assume it was safe to cross because the crosswalk light was green? Can you do anything differently to avoid similar situations?

Conclusion

Near-miss car accidents can be stressful, but understanding the legal and practical aspects can help you navigate the situation more effectively. While reporting to the police is an option, reflecting on the incident and improving your behavior is often a more constructive approach. Always remember, 'Heaviest object wins.' Protect yourself and be vigilant when crossing the street.