After a car accident, it can be challenging to establish fault. If you were involved in a car accident, you should follow all of the following as much as you can to safeguard your health while also making sure you get paid for your damages.
#1. Stop and dial 911
If it’s possible to do so safely, you should stop at the accident scene and move to the roadside. You should then dial 911 after stopping and ensuring everyone is secure.
It’s crucial to dial 911 from the accident scene for two important reasons. First, even though you initially feel fine after an accident, you should seek medical care. After an accident, some injuries, like whiplash or severe internal wounds, may not show symptoms for days or weeks. Second, you need police to show up so they can create a police statement that will support your injuries claim.
#2. Share information
Share information with all other drivers who were in the collision as well. They should provide you with their name, contact details, insurance details, and driver’s license number.
Once you’ve done this, you ought to keep your conversations with other drivers to a minimum and refrain from speculating about the accident’s cause. The most crucial thing to remember is that you should never blame yourself for the collision or offer an apology.
#3. Collect evidence
Take pictures of the accident scene, the injuries you’ve sustained, the impact on all of the cars involved, and the road’s skid marks if it’s convenient and you’re physically capable. Note down any other details that seem significant about the accident while it is fresh in your memory, for example, the weather, the state of the roads, and the contact information of any observers.
#4. Inform your Insurance provider about the accident
Often these insurance companies specify that whenever you are in an accident, you must promptly notify them. When speaking with your insurance provider, it would be best if you refrained from blaming yourself for the accident. Additionally, since some injuries, as was previously mentioned, may take a long time to express, you should refrain from saying anything that minimizes the intensity of your injuries.
#5. Contact a reputable personal injury attorney
Finally, you should consider speaking with a reputable personal injury lawyer, such as the New Jersey-based advocates at ReinartzLaw.com, to review your case. Your lawyer can make claims on your behalf for lost wages, suffering and pain, medical costs, and other accident-related damages. It is best to hire a lawyer as soon as possible because they will ensure you don’t say anything or do anything that could affect your case.
For instance, you shouldn’t provide the other driver’s insurance company with a statement. Allow your lawyer to speak with them on your account. Additionally, before signing any documents or accepting cashier’s checks or other forms of payment, you should speak with an attorney who can advise you on your legal options.
Conclusion
A car accident is a terrifying experience. A person’s mental and physical being is shaken, and they’re left with many questions. The police will likely want to interview you, and your insurance company may want a statement. It isn’t necessary to be nervous while sitting with the police officer or on the phone with your insurance company. As long as you respond calmly and collectedly, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about after an accident.
