There are six crucial things you should always do immediately after a motor vehicle crash. Our Ventura car accident lawyers explain.
1. Call 911
Report the incident to the police. Be accurate and detailed in what took place and if you hear statements by other parties involved that are false, report that to the investigating officer.
If you are asked whether you are injured and you are not sure, then state you are not sure—never say “no.” It is common for pain from injuries as a result of an accident to present hours or even a couple days after the collision. Also, you will be provided with a police report number, so save this information.
2. Exchange Driver Information
Talk to all parties involved in the car wreck, including drivers and passengers. If possible, take a photo of the at-fault driver’s insurance card and driver’s license.
The information you should collect from the other motorists includes:
- Names
- Addresses
- Telephone numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Auto insurance company names
- Auto Insurance policy numbers
3. Gather Witness Information
If there are any witnesses it is important to get their names and phone numbers. It is not uncommon for police reports to be inconclusive as to fault and in these scenarios witness information is vital.
4. Take Photos of the Accident Scene
Take photos of all cars involved and of the accident scene. This cannot be recreated as accurately in the future if there are not good photos, so preserve this evidence. Photograph your injuries and any property damage. Take pictures of skid marks and debris on the road as well.
5. Report the Claim to Your Auto Insurance Company
Call your auto insurance carrier and report the accident. It is often fastest to have your insurance company handle your property damage claim and then they will seek recovery from the at-fault insurance through subrogation. It is also perfectly appropriate to go through the at-fault insurance.
There are often pros and cons based on which company handles your damage claim. Please call Richard | Bartlett Lawyers for more details.
6. Seek Medical Attention
It is vital to safeguard yourself by seeking medical attention after an accident and reporting to your medical provider that you were in an accident. To best treat you, your doctors need all the information, so if your body hit anything in the vehicle this must be reported. If you are not sure whether you lost consciousness, then say you do not know, rather than “no.”
The more detailed you are, the more likely you are to get comprehensive and effective treatment. This information will also reflect positively on your auto insurance and potential personal injury claim.
Have you or a loved one recently been in a car accident? Our Ventura car accident lawyers are here to help. Contact us online or call (805) 438-2440 to schedule your free, confidential consultation.