Nobody expects or looks forward to being in a car accident. However, accidents, by their very nature, happen when you least expect them. At that point, you will probably be disoriented and unsure as to how to proceed. That is why it may be useful to know what to do and how to react in such a situation now that you have a level head and can prepare yourself for what you hope is something that will never happen.
Are There Steps You Can Take Before An Accident?
- Make sure you have all the documents at the ready: your ID, your vehicle’s registration, your insurance information, etc.
- Make sure your phone is with you at all times and has plenty of charge. A car charger may be a good investment.
- Place a first aid kit in your glove compartment.
What Are The First Steps You Need To Take When In A Car Accident?
Move To A Safe Place
If the accident happens in the middle of a busy highway it is imperative that you get out of the way before suffering even more injuries. Check yourself for injuries and, if possible, move to a safe place. Turn on your vehicle’s warning lights to ensure other drivers become aware that something has happened. Stop the car and get out.
Make Sure Nobody Is Hurt
If it is possible for you to move around, check the other people involved in the accident to see how they are faring. Call 911 if you see anyone that is injured.
Call The Police
A police accident report becomes a vital document to have if you will deal with insurance companies or if a lawsuit will have to be filed. Remember not to admit any fault but also do not point a finger at others. The police can do their job and determine what has happened and how is at fault.
Don’t Rely On Your Memory
You may have to convey what happened to a medical professional, a lawyer, your boss, etc. Don’t rely on your memory but write down as many details about the incident as possible. Find out the names of drivers and passengers, make a note of license plate numbers, make and models of all vehicles involved. Also, gather insurance information, find out the contact information for witnesses at the scene and, if possible, get their testimonies. Finally, write down the names and badge numbers of the police officers that responded to the scene.
Take Pictures
If there is a time when a picture tells a thousand words it is immediately after an accident. Document what you see around you, take pictures of the vehicles and anything else you think may be useful.
Reach Out To A Personal Injury Attorney
If you were involved in a car accident, a personal injury lawyer will make sure you get the compensation you are entitled to. Keep in mind that although your insurance will help protect you against financial consequences that could seriously impact your life, you might still need to pay for medical visits, medications or treatments, not to mention having to take care of massive car repair bills.
Call your Fresno car accident attorney, today and set up an appointment to receive your free consultation.
Figure Out How To Pay For It
Accidents, and especially accidents where you’ve been hurt, can be especially expensive. If you’re injured you could loose wages, incur medical expenses or legal fee. One way to cover your costs if you are involved in an accident is to look into lawsuit loans. So, basically, the main idea here is to hire an attorney and sue. If you think the suit will go well, then look into getting a car accident lawsuit loan to provide yourself immediate coverage of your cost. The only thing is you’d need to be sure you understand how much lawsuit loans cost, as well their terms and conditions.