When a car accident occurs, the first thing to do is call 911. The 911 operator will then dispatch appropriate law enforcement. They can also expedite medical personnel. This is particularly important in the case of a serious crash.
There are many factors that can determine the severity of the injuries involved in a car accident. For instance, the speed and the condition of the brakes can affect the extent of the damage. Another factor is whether or not the driver was texting while driving.
A major injury such as a head injury, or blunt-force trauma, can have a long-lasting effect on a person’s life. Even if the victim appears fine, they may need to undergo tests and procedures that will require a considerable amount of money. In addition, the person might miss work or incur hospital expenses.
One of the most important things to do after an accident is to document the event. It is possible to get a copy of a police report from the scene of the crash, or request a copy from an insurance adjuster. You may want to take pictures of the vehicle, the damage, and the crime scene. Photos can be an invaluable asset in a potential lawsuit.
Another good reason to get a copy of a police accident report is to see how the authorities analyzed the incident. Typically, a police officer will record the damage to your vehicle, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and any injuries that were sustained. Depending on the state you live in, this information can be useful when it comes to filing an insurance claim.
Other information that you may find helpful is the identification of other drivers. The law requires that you obtain contact and insurance information for all parties in the incident. If the other parties are not cooperative, this can be an even harder feat.
Depending on your state’s laws, you may be able to recover 100 percent of your medical bills, even if the other party is at fault. Additionally, you may be able to recover damages for lost wages, as well as a variety of other costs.
A few other good practices include staying calm and collecting contact information for witnesses. Ideally, all of the following should be done before the police arrive.
It’s a good idea to note the type of injuries you have, including any obvious cuts and bruises, and any visible damage to the car. If you feel okay, visit the doctor within a day or two. However, if you suffer from a traumatic brain injury, the symptoms won’t show up until weeks or months later.
If you’re in a minor crash, don’t leave the scene until police arrive. Make sure to keep the hazard lights on and avoid making any moves in the car. Getting out of a car can be very dangerous.
Finally, if you think that your accident has not been reported, call the police and make sure they are aware of the incident. Not only can they help you in the future, but they can ensure that all parties are compliant.
