You were
just involved in a car accident. It wasn’t your fault and now you’re at the
scene wondering how in the world this could have happened when you were driving
safely. You always drive safely. Now you’re not sure if your car is able to
drive from the scene or what you should do. Here are some tips that lawyers
wish they could tell you at the scene of the crash:
Take
Photographs After a Car Accident
We often
forget that our phones have become powerful tools (able to take photos and
videos with a simple button). Take photos of the collision scene to document
where the cars were at impact. Take photos of the other driver’s license plate,
insurance card, and driver’s license (in case they give you inaccurate or false
information).
Get
Witness Information
If other
people stop or witness the collision, get their name, number and address. Even
if you don’t think you need it, get it. Sometimes people change their story
later about how the collision happened. You want your attorney to have access
to potentially helpful (or damaging) testimony from the beginning of your case.
Call the
Police
It is not
always necessary to call the police, but in these situations it’s a good idea:
- If you feel threatened. If you feel threatened by the other driver you should call the police and allow them to help you exchange information.
- If your car needs to be towed. If you are unable to drive your car safely from the scene, call the police and get your vehicle safely towed from the scene
- If you are feeling pain at the scene. An officer may ask you if you need an ambulance to get to the hospital. If you need to go and can’t drive your vehicle there or are advised not to, be smart. Do not put yourself or other’s at risk.
Get
Medical Help
If you are
hurt, get help from your local Emergency Room or Urgent Care. Pay attention to
how you are feeling over the next 24-72 hours. Often times, your adrenaline is
running as a result of being part of a traumatic experience. Some aches and
pains may not register right away, but you may start feeling aches that are
different and nagging.
If you have
continued pain and problems, seek help with a local doctor, physical therapist,
chiropractor or orthopedic. Bonus tip: keep your appointments so that you get
better sooner!
Call an
Attorney After a Car Accident
If you are
hurt, you should call a car accident attorney. Insurance companies know
that, if you are without an attorney, the company can take advantage of you.
They can talk you out of getting the right medical care and lowball you on
offers for your case. Ultimately, they know you will not be successful bringing
an action against them or their driver in court by yourself. By yourself, you
have little to no leverage to get what is fair and just for your injuries.
Call
Trollinger Law LLC at 301-298-2502, for an experienced personal injury
trial attorney to discuss your case for a no fee consultation and ask us
about our Worry Free Representation.
