If you are ever in a car accident then it is important that you know what to do. The truth is that you will likely be in shock. You may not have the wherewithal to think critically about your options. This is why it is so important to know ahead of time. Read on to get a full list of everything you should do after a car accident and then reach out to The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for your free legal consultation.
Exchange information with the other involved parties
Any car accident that results in an injury requires you and the involved parties to exchange information. This includes their insurance info and their contact info. If there are no injuries but there is damage that exceeds $750 to either car then you will need to exchange info. In the event that there is damage of $750 and / or an injury or a death, then you will also need to report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles. You have ten days to do that. Your personal injury attorney can help you with this.
Never admit that you were at fault
It is just human nature to want to say “sorry” for whatever part you may have played in the accident. Do not do that. Saying something as simple as, “I’m sorry” can be taken a statement that you were at fault. You can talk to the other people involved, ask if they need help, etc., but there is no reason to say sorry. Even if you feel as though it was your fault, remember that accidents happen in a split second and your initial reaction is not always accurate.
Take plenty of pictures
It is likely that you have a smartphone handy. You can take plenty of pictures not just of the scene and the vehicles, but any other conditions that may have affected the accident, such as a wet roadway, cracks in the road, potholes, etc. You can also take a video if it is necessary. Just make sure that you do not take a video or pictures until you have contacted emergency personnel for help, if applicable.
Talk to a personal injury attorney
Many people assume that their insurance company is on their side. This may or may not be true, but remember that their goal is singular: Making a profit. They are not in the business of offering you the maximum settlement you are owed. If you are working with the insurance company of the at-faulty party then this power dynamic can be further swapped.
The bottom line is that you need a personal injury attorney who will be on your side and your side only. You need an attorney who will look at the case in front of them, consider the evidence, consider your side of the story, and find the best possible way to move forward. You can find this and more when you work with The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000. Contact us now for a free legal consultation.
