What To Do After A Car Accident

Get Help from Our Ventura Car Accident Attorneys

Being involved in a car accident can be scary for all involved. You may suffered from a personal injury, or your vehicle may have been damaged in the collision. During this stressful time, you may not know what to do and your adrenaline and emptions can be raging, clouding your judgement. No matter what the situation may be, there are some important things you should remember after an accident to ensure that your rights are protected and you can work with our lawyers to recover the maximum amount of possible compensation.

If you have been harmed in a car or other auto accident, it is imperative that you act quickly. Once you have recovered medical attention, you need to contact your trusted Ventura car accident attorney from Richard | Bartlett Lawyers as soon as possible. We offer free consultations to offer you the service you deserve.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident?

With millions of car accidents occurring in the United States every year, too many people find themselves harmed. You need to be sure to protect yourself and your interests during this time.

Be sure to follow the following steps after a car accident to protect your rights!

• Stop and stay at the scene of the accident.
• Check on all passengers in the vehicle and assess the situation.
• Call police and report the car crash.
• Develop an accurate record of the accident- take pictures!
• Get the information of any witnesses to the crash.
• If the accident happened with another vehicle, exchange information.
• Retain and keep all information about the accident.
• Consult with your trusted Ventura car accident attorneys.

The most important thing you can do during this time is protect yourself under the law. In personal injury cases, there are numerous considerations that need to be accounted for, and insurance companies work to prevent you from recovering the full amount that you are owed. During this time, you need a car accident lawyer more than ever!

FAQ: What to Do After a Car Accident

What Are the First Steps I Should Take After a Car Accident?

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe area if possible, and check for injuries to yourself and others.
• Call 911: Notify the police and emergency services, even for minor accidents. A police report can be invaluable later.
• Turn on Hazard Lights: Alert other drivers to prevent further accidents.

Why Is Gathering Evidence at the Scene Important?

Evidence is crucial for proving liability. Take photos of:

• Vehicle damage
• Road conditions (e.g., skid marks or debris)
• Traffic signals and signs near the accident
• Any visible injuries

Collecting this information helps build a strong case for compensation.

Who Should I Notify About the Accident?

1. Your Insurance Company: Report the accident promptly to start your claim.
2. The Other Driver’s Insurance Company: Provide only basic facts, and avoid discussing fault until consulting an attorney.
3. Your Lawyer: They can guide you on the best approach to protect your rights.

How Can I Protect Myself From Insurance Tactics?

Insurance companies often aim to reduce payouts. Protect yourself by:

• Refusing to provide a recorded statement without legal advice.
• Declining to sign documents you don't understand fully.
• Keeping track of all communications with the insurer.

When Should I Seek Legal Help?

Contact a car accident attorney if:

• You’ve suffered significant injuries.
• There’s a dispute over fault.
• You feel pressured into accepting a low settlement offer.

What If the Other Driver Was Uninsured?

You may still recover damages through your own uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help you navigate this process and explore other compensation options.

What Types of Compensation Can I Pursue?

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses, including ongoing treatment
• Property damage and vehicle repairs
• Pain and suffering
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Emotional distress

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

California law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim and three years for property damage claims. Acting quickly ensures you don’t miss these deadlines.

Put Over 30 Years of Experience On Your Side

Car accidents aren't convenient for anyone, and if you have been harmed, you are facing the additional burden of medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages and more. When the accident wasn't your fault, you should especially not be obligated to pay for this care. Our firm can take a thorough look at the situation surrounding your case and identify all of the possible ways that you have been wronged. When you have been harmed, you deserve to hold the responsible party accountable, whether it be in a car accident or other incident. Richard | Bartlett Lawyers is here to help.

Call now and find out what our Ventura car accident lawyers can do for you.