How to deal with a car accident
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| what to do after a car accident |
What To Do After A Car Accident: A Step-by-Step
If anyone is injured, this ensures that they receive proper care as quickly as possible. The ambulance team will take care of your injuries and recommend the correct course of action. Any injuries sustained to yourself or others are important to note.
1-Notify the Police
The police will examine the scene thoroughly and file a report. Be polite and cooperate with the police officers and other emergency personnel at the accident scene. Note the names of the officers and ask them for the accident report number.
2-Gather Information
Get contact information from the other driver or drivers. Jot down their name, address and phone number. Make a note of the color, make and model of the other vehicles, and the license plates if you can. The police officer can help you get all this information, and will often have a form for you to exchange with the other driver(s) involved. Do not be afraid to ask such information, or for the form.
3-Identify Witnesses
Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. If you can, do this quickly. Often, people who saw the collision will stop for a short time, but leave before the police arrive. Other motorists, passengers or pedestrians can be critical witnesses. Get their name and phone number.
4-Do Not Discuss Fault
Do not blame the other driver even if they were clearly at fault. It may just start an argument. But, if the other driver admits it was their fault, make a mental note of it. When you get home, jot down precisely what you remember them saying. Even if you feel you may have been partially at fault, do not say anything that admits your feeling.
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| after being in a car accident |
5-Recall the Events of the Accident
After the accident write a note to yourself. Include all the information you have gathered and can remember while it is fresh in your mind. Explain how the accident happened as best you can. Drawing a sketch or diagram of the collision will be a helpful memory aid later on. It may be months, or even years, before the insurance companies fully resolve any claims.
6-Contact your Insurance Company
All insurance policies require you to notify your insurance company. This must be done shortly after the accident. Unnecessary delay in telling your insurance company about the crash can result in a denial of your claim, but do NOT give a recorded statement!
7-Get the Accident Report
If anyone is injured or there is significant property damage to the vehicles an accident report is typically filed by the police department. Contact the law enforcement agency that responded to the wreck for directions on how to obtain the police report. Typically, the reports are available the following day.
8-Take Pictures
If you can, and it is safe, take pictures of the vehicles before they are moved. Pictures can prove how the accident happened and document the force of the collision. This can be helpful evidence if the accident caused any injuries. If you do not have a camera available, the camera on your cell phone will do the job.
9-Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
A car accident lawyer is your most valuable ally in an accident claim. They are experienced in dealing with insurance companies, third parties, and your legal rights. To ensure proper compensation for all property damages and injuries, it is important to have an attorney review your settlement offer. CALL AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY who specializes in accident and injury claims for advice and answers to your questions.