It only takes a few seconds for your life to change forever. Car accidents are a terrifying reminder of this, and while you may be shaken up, it’s important you know what to do.
According to the car accident lawyers at Maho | Prentice, LLP, the actions you take immediately following this accident could help you when building your case against the negligent driver.
1. Do Not Leave
In California, leaving the scene of an accident is considered a hit-and-run. Make sure you call 911 to help anyone with injuries. Additionally, you must move your vehicle out of the way if you can do so. If your injuries are too severe or your car is damaged to the point it is inoperable, arrangements can be made to have it moved.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Not all injuries sustained in a car crash come with gaping wounds. You may think you’re fine, but get checked out to be sure. You could have internal bleeding or a head injury that requires treatment following the accident. Without a medical report to back it up, you will not recover the losses from your injuries.
3. Get Evidence
You will want to show that you are not at fault in the accident to recover full compensation for your injuries. Photos and videos can help you document the accident scene and prove that you were not at fault. Make sure to capture what you can by documenting the vehicle damage, skid marks, weather conditions, debris from the accident, and anything surrounding the accident area.
4. Get a Police Report
When the police come to the crash site, they will eventually file a police report. You can submit this document to the insurance company when you file your accident claim.
5. Get Information from the Other Driver
After an accident, you should exchange contact information with the other parties involved. This includes exchanging insurance information. If anyone witnessed the accident, you should ask for their contact information as well.
While most people will be cooperative, there are some that may refuse to give you their information. This is why it’s essential to contact the police immediately after the accident because the other parties must provide that information to law enforcement. You should also call your own insurance company to let them know about the accident.
What Else Should You Do After a Car Accident?
Once you have followed these five steps after your accident, you should contact an experienced car accident attorney. Many people find that after they are injured in a car accident, the reimbursement from insurance isn’t enough to cover the repairs to their vehicles, medical bills, or loss of income. You don’t want to find that out the hard way.
If your injuries are so extensive that you will be unable to work for a long time, you will want a personal injury lawyer by your side to help you get the compensation you deserve. It’s a stressful time, and you should focus on healing. With a free initial consultation, you can see how an attorney will benefit you in getting the compensation you deserve.
