When a car accident happens, injuries may be severe and emotions may be high. However, there are important things that must be taken care of both at the scene of the accident and afterwards. If you drive a car you should know what to do if you are involved in an accident. It is important to take action quickly. In order to protect your legal rights after a car accident, you need to be aware of a few things. Some actions you should take after a car accident are:
- Never leave the scene of the accident until it is appropriate to do so, especially if there are any injuries.
- Obtain medical attention for anyone injured in the accident, including yourself. Some car accident injuries may not be apparent to you right away, so be sure to get examined by a medical care provider without delay to avoid a more serious injury or injuries.
- Contact the police immediately and file an auto accident report. The police report will help determine who was at fault and list the facts of the accident. The police report can be used in insurance investigations and lawsuits. The police will also assist in exchanging information between drivers.
- Take down names and information from the other party or parties involved in the accident, including contact and insurance information. If there were witnesses be sure and obtain their names and telephone numbers.
- Photos of the damage to all parties involved may be taken for further help with the claim. Some people keep a disposable camera in their car for this reason. You also may have a camera on your cell phone.
- Don't discuss the accident with other drivers or witnesses.
- As soon as possible write down all the facts of the accident surrounding the accident, such as time, date, location of the accident and weather conditions.
- If you do seek medical treatment be sure and take note of any doctors, physical therapists, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from.
- Contact an auto accident lawyer immediately. Do not give a statement to the insurance company. Refer them to your well established auto accident attorney. Your attorney will conduct all communication with the insurance companies, protect your legal rights, help seek the compensation for your losses, as well as help you get the medical attention you may need. Your attorney can also determine who was at fault.
- You can call your insurance agent or insurance company to report the accident. Your insurance company will investigate the loss, take statements and inspect the damage to both vehicles to determine fault. If you are working with an attorney, refer your claims representative to your auto accident attorney.
Be careful of early settlement offers from insurance companies. Make sure that any physical injuries you have suffered have been treated. Don't settle a claim until you know you will be compensated for all of your injuries, and consult anMiami car accident attorney before signing any documents pertaining to the settlement.
