Car accidents can be stressful, traumatic, and even life-changing experiences. Oftentimes people are so shaken up following the accident they don’t know what to do next.
Thai leaves them vulnerable to being taken advantage of by insurance companies and other drivers even if they were not at fault in the accident.
This article will guide you in the unfortunate case of an auto accident, so you know precisely what straps to take, such as calling a motor vehicle accident lawyer. Following this guide will ensure your legal rights will always be protected.
Check for Injuries
The first thing you should do after an accident is to check if you or anyone else involved is injured. Waiting too long to act can complicate any health emergency you or someone else involved may be facing. If there is an injury or someone is unconscious, you need to call 911 immediately if there are any injuries or if someone is unconscious. Be careful about other drivers on the road if you can try to get out of the street and move to a sidewalk or parking lot.
Call The Police
Regardless of the severity of the accident, you should always call the police, especially if you plan on filing an insurance claim on the accident. The police will create an accident report, usually stating which driver was at fault. This is a crucial piece of paper when filing a claim or seeking compensation. A motor vehicle accident lawyer will want that information for their records.
Exchange Information With The Other Driver
The next step is to exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers. Additionally, check if there are eyewitnesses to the accident, and ask if you can get their contact information as well. If you and the driver disagree about the circumstances involving the accident, an eyewitness can help support your argument. Also, remember to take detailed photos of the accident.
Contact Your Insurance Company
You need to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident, even if you’re not at fault. You don’t want your insurance company to find out about the accident from a third party. Provide them with all the necessary information you have, and they will perform their own inspection.
Call a Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer
It is important to consult with a motor vehicle accident lawyer, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. Oftentimes after an accident, you will negotiate with a lot of other parties who want to minimize the amount of compensation you will receive following an accident. A motor vehicle accident lawyer can help defend your rights and negotiate on your behalf. Insurance companies have their own team of lawyers to protect their interests; it pays to have one protecting yours.
You Can Still be In Control After An Accident
Even though it may seem like you lost all control following an auto accident, if you follow the steps listed above, you’ll know exactly what to do. A motor vehicle accident lawyer can help guide you through this traumatic experience and ensure you are being taken care of.