Car Accident Tips from Auto Accident Lawyers in Southern California
Car accidents affect millions of people every year. While everyone has seen a car accident at some point in their lives, few people are prepared to deal with the aftermath of an accident when they are involved in one. For this reason, our Southern California accident attorneys have compiled the following list of tips so that you know what to do immediately after being involved in a car accident.
Stop Your Car
Immediately after you are in an accident, it is important to stop your car. Leaving the scene of an accident can be considered a hit-and-run and can get you in trouble. The best thing for you to do is to remain at the scene until police arrive. If your car is in the flow of traffic, move your car to a safer location if possible to avoid additional cars colliding with you. If it is not possible to move your car, use road flares to alert oncoming traffic to drive with care and remain in your car with your seatbelt buckled.
Check for Injuries
Once you have made sure that you are in a safe location, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone has sustained serious injury, do not move them as you may make their injuries worse. The best thing to do is to call an ambulance and wait for trained emergency medical technicians to assist.
Call the Police
It is important to have an official record of your accident should you need to pursue legal action in the future. When talking to police, do not admit blame. Simply tell police officers the facts of the accident and allow them to make their report. When you receive your copy of the police report, be sure to check it for accuracy.
Exchange Insurance and Contact Information
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, exchange insurance and contact information with the driver of the other vehicle. Be sure to write down the name of their insurance company, coverage expiration date, and insurance company phone number in addition to the drivers name, address, phone number and license plate number.
Take Photographs
Taking photographs of the accident scene and any injuries is a great way to document what happened in an accident. Be sure to take photos of the accident scene from different angles and perspectives as these images can help you recreate the accident should you need to in the future. Keeping a disposable camera in your glove box is always a good idea since digital photos can be contested on the basis that the images may have been digitally enhanced.
It is not necessary to call an attorney after every accident. An attorney should be consulted if serious injuries or significant property damage occur. If you believe that another person was at fault for your accident and you would like to seek compensation for your injuries, an Orange County vehicle accident lawyer can help. An attorney can serve as your legal advocate, handling all communication with insurance companies and fighting for your best interests.
Call 714-953-1500 to speak with one of our Southern California auto accident lawyers or 602-234-1555 to speak with one of our Phoenix car accident lawyers.