Motor Vehicle Accidents – What to do if you are in one

Being in a car accident can be scary and stressful. But it is important to plan ahead and be prepared.

Below are ten steps that should be taken if you have been involved in an auto accident.

1)   Stay at the scene and remain calm:

1. If you leave, you may be charged with a “hit and run.”
2. For safety, move as far off the roadway as possible. But remain at the scene of the accident.
3. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights.

2)   Check on all drivers and passengers:

1. Check to make sure everyone involved is okay.  Get medical attention for anyone who may need it.

3)   Call the police:

1. If the accident involves bodily injury and/or significant property damage.
2. Ask that a police report be filed and obtain their name and badge numbers.

4)   Do NOT apologize or admit guilt:

1. Remember,  it might not be evident who is at fault or more at fault.  Be cordial and cooperative, but do not apologize or admit guilt.  DO NOT have conversations about the accident with the other party or even your own passengers at the scene of the accident.

5)   Exchange information:

1. Obtain the other driver’s name, number, address, driver’s license, license plate number and insurance information. Tip: Take pictures of the driver’s license and insurance card
2. If there are passengers in the other vehicle, obtain their names, telephone numbers and addresses as well.

6)   Take pictures:

1. Take photographs of any damage to all vehicles involved.
2. Take photographs of the area where accident occurred and surrounding areas.
3. Take photographs of any physical injury (i.e. cuts, bruises, etc).

7)   Talk to witnesses:

1. If present, get their names, telephone numbers, addresses and what they saw.
2. Witnesses may not be able to stay around until the police arrive.  Provide the witness information to your Attorney.

8)   Keep records of medical treatment and other expenses:

1. Keep your medical treatments and records and provide them to your Attorney.
2. Keep receipts of any out of pocket expenses you incurred as a result of the accident (i.e. pain medication, car rental expenses, tow fees, etc.)

9)  DO NOT talk your insurance company or the other party’s insurance company:

1. You should consult an Attorney before speaking with your insurance company or the other party’s insurance company.  Don’t assume that just because it is your own insurance company that it is “safe” to talk to them.

10) You need to hire an experienced Personal Injury Attorney:

1. Especially if there are injuries or extensive property damage involved.
2. This also allows you to focus on your recovery instead of dealing with the insurance companies.
3. After an accident, you are stressed, frustrated and in pain.  Having an Attorney on your case will help alleviate the devastating effects of an accident.

Contact JV LAW GROUP can help you protect your rights and obtain the maximum compensation you deserve.