Important Steps to Take After Being Involved in a Car Accident
Approximately 6 million car accidents occur in the United States each year. Whether it be minor or severe, a car accident can be an extremely traumatic experience, resulting in both physical and emotional damage. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to know what to do and who to contact for help. Learn what steps to take with the lawyers at Davis Law Group.
Call 911
Regardless if no injuries were sustained and there is minimal damage, it is important to call 911 and wait for a police officer to arrive at the scene. A police officer can complete an accident report, which can prove to be helpful when you later file a claim with your insurance company. If you believe you were the one responsible for causing the accident, it is important to avoid admitting fault as there could have been other contributing factors involved.
Seek Appropriate Medical Care
Medical attention is crucial after being involved in a car accident. If the accident is severe and you sustained major injuries, you will most likely be transported to the emergency room via ambulance. Even if you feel fine or have minor injuries, seeking medical attention from a professional is important. Symptoms of injury may appear days after the accident and could continue to worsen without proper diagnosis and treatment.
Exchange Insurance Information
If you are able to at the time, it is imperative that you exchange insurance information with the parties involved in the accident. Every driver should be carrying an insurance card, which includes their name, home address, the insurance company in which they are insured by, the policy number, their vehicle identification number, the make, model, and year of their vehicle, the date the policy went into effect, and the date at which it will expire.
Take Photos of the Scene
Photos of the accident can serve as visual evidence for your insurance company. They can show vehicle damage, injuries, and the conditions of the road at the time, the weather, and more. Capturing photos of the scene of the accident can help determine how the accident occurred and who may have been liable.
Identify Witnesses
Witnesses can be of significance following a car accident, as they may have been able to see exactly what happened. It is important to get the names and phone numbers of those who observed the accident. Statements made by witnesses can be helpful when seeking compensation for damages and injuries.
Document What Happened
Before you are able to report the accident to your insurance company, you need to gather all necessary information and document what happened. This includes your account of the accident and the parties involved, any photos of the scene, information from key witnesses or a responding officer, and details about where and when the accident took place.
Contact the Experienced Car Accident Lawyers at Davis Law Group
When you are ready to report the accident, you should consider contacting a lawyer first. A lawyer can help guide you through the claims process and ensure that you are given the fair compensation that you are entitled to. At Davis Law Group, our car accident lawyers possess the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate car accident cases. They are dedicated to making sure each client obtains the justice that they deserve and will work tirelessly to ensure that the most favorable outcome is achieved.
