If you’ve recently been in a car crash, you’re not alone. Statistics show that car accidents are on the rise in 2020, and there are some essential things that your car accident lawyer wants you to keep in mind in the first few hours and even days after a car accident.
Stop and Exchange Information
Never leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information. Unless you are suffering from a severe injury to the point of being incapacitated, you must exchange information with the other party. This information includes your name, driver’s license number, your insurance company’s name, and your insurance policy number.
Call the Police
Call the police because your insurance company and personal injury attorney will use the police report’s information as evidence for your case. Another reason you may need law enforcement is that the other party could be hostile. If emotions are running high and you feel threatened, sit in your car with the doors locked and wait for the police to arrive.
Take Pictures
Chances are, you have a phone with you, so as soon as you feel up to it, take some pictures. You should photograph the damage to both vehicles and any visible injuries you or your passengers have.
Do Not Admit Fault
Limit conversations with the other party. Although you will need to answer questions from the police, do not admit fault for the accident. When talking to the police, do not guess or speculate about details you are unsure of the correct answer.
Get Medical Treatment
Motor vehicle injuries don’t always manifest themselves immediately, so you may find that you are very sore the next day. Seek medical care as soon as possible, mostly if the accident wasn’t your fault. Be sure to show up for all follow-up appointments.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
If you suffer from an injury due to a car accident, contact a law firm like Robert J. Debry & Associates. Personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t have to come up with anything out of pocket. A car accident lawyer will investigate your accident and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and your attorney doesn’t get paid unless you do.