What to do after a car wreck
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 6 million motor vehicle accidents occur in the United States each year. Whether you've been in a minor fender bender or a significant accident, you may be too shaken up to make good decisions, so it's vital to learn ahead of time.
If you get into a car crash or wreck, it's important to know what to do.
Here are the top 5 steps you need to take:
1- Call 911
Check for injuries. Make sure everyone in the car (including family) is okay and has no serious injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 immediately.
The police will come and prepare a report after you call 911. The report will include the officer's statement of who is to blame, as well as a diagram of how the collision occurred, insurance information for the person who caused the accident, weather conditions, any penalties imposed, and so on.
Regardless of what the other person claims; never leave the scene of a crash before the cops arrive and gather information to prepare their report.
2- Take pictures or video of the scene and damage before moving the vehicles
This may surprise you, but people change their stories when talking to the cops.
It is legal to move your vehicle after a crash, so traffic may flow; however, if it is safe to walk around the vehicles.
I always recommend taking pictures and videos to show the position of the vehicles at the time of impact. This could be valuable information if there is a dispute as to who is at fault.
3- Record important information
If you can get to the other side of your car without causing damage,, write down the following key information:
The other driver's insurance company and policy number
The other driver's license plate number and state of issue
Names, addresses, phone numbers, and ages of any injured parties involved in the wreck
A description of the other driver's car
A description of any witnesses
A concise description of the accident
If you are unable to move or are hurt, ask a bystander for assistance. Make sure to get a copy of the police report after your accident.
4- Get Medical Treatment ASAP -
For serious injuries or situations that are less severe, you should visit the Emergency Room or urgent care (or see a doctor the next day). The sooner you go, the better for your own personal well-being as well as our ability to establish that the accident caused your injuries.
5- Call Our Office -
You'll need a lawyer to assist you with your vehicle accident. We must get to work on the case immediately in order to help you recoup all of your deserved compensation, including property damage, rental payments, medical care, lost income, pain and suffering, and so on.
Contact us today to get started on your case.
Advocacy is perhaps the most essential function of a car accident lawyer. This implies advocating on your behalf and with your best interests in mind at every stage of the claim procedure.
Whether you're dealing with an automobile insurance company or attempting to persuade a court or jury, we will be your champion, ensuring that your side of the story is heard and that you are compensated for all of your losses.
Contact us today to discuss your legal options.
