4 Steps to Follow if You Get in A Car Accident
Many people don’t think about injury lawyers until after they’ve already been in a car accident. However, waiting too long to form a plan of action can make it all the more difficult if an accident does happen. As a precautionary measure, it’s good to know in advance what to do if you get into an accident.
1. Call the Police and Talk to Others at The Crash Scene
The first thing to do after a car accident is to call the police and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take pictures of any damage to your vehicle, and get contact information from any witnesses. According to Lem Garcia Law, as many as 80% of car crashes involve some sort of driver distraction, whether that’s dealing with a child in the back seat, using the phone while driving, or something else that makes the driver take their eyes off the road. If the person who caused the accident wasn’t paying attention to the road, eyewitness accounts can help verify this.
2. File a Claim
Next, file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. They may have their own recommended steps for you to take, so be sure to ask for clarification on anything you’re unsure about. If you’ve been injured in the accident, seek medical attention immediately. You’ll want documentation of your injury for potential legal action.
3. Find a Lawyer
Your insurance company will likely appoint a lawyer for you to help with the claim process. However, it’s important to remember that this lawyer works for the insurance company and not for you. You’re allowed to have your own injury lawyer represent you in order to protect your best interests. If you’re hiring your own injury lawyer, look for someone who specializes in car accidents and has experience with cases similar to yours. You should also ask for referrals from friends or do some research online. Make sure to interview a few lawyers before making your decision.
4. Gather Documents
A lot of documentation is involved in the legal process. Expect to gather and provide documents related to the accident and your injury, as well as attend meetings and possibly a trial. While this may seem intimidating, you can rest assured that a good injury lawyer will guide you through each step and tell you exactly what you need to do.
Do your part to stay safe on the road by following all traffic laws, staying alert, and avoiding distractions like cell phone use while driving. By taking these precautions, you can hopefully prevent an accident from happening in the first place. However, if you do get injured in an accident, you can rely on the personal injury attorneys at Zwick Law to advocate for your rights and ensure that your needs are met. Let us support you through every step of your case.