No one ever expects to be involved in a car accident. But, unfortunately in South Bend, they happen every day. If you're involved in a car accident, there are some important things you need to do to protect yourself and your rights. After all, this ensures that, post-accident, everything goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Check for Injuries
The first thing you need to do after a car accident or any other Motor Vehicle Accident is to check for injuries. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Once emergency medical help is on the way, you can start to assess the damage to your vehicle.
2. Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is still operable, move it to a safe location off of the road. If it's not, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help. This is to ensure that other cars don't accidentally hit the vehicles or someone, causing more trouble than there already is.
3. Call 911
Even if the accident seems minor, it's always a good idea to call the police. They can document the accident and help to determine who is at fault. They can also help secure the location for your safety.
4. Exchange Information
Get the contact information from the other driver, including their name, phone number, and insurance information. You should also exchange information with any witnesses to the accident.
5. Take Photos
If you have a camera or smartphone, take photos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you or your passengers have sustained. Also, take pictures of the other vehicle and its license plates. These photos can be helpful in documenting the accident and proving your damage.
6. Reach Out to a Lawyer
You should always reach out to a lawyer when you can after an accident. Why? Because having an experienced personal injury lawyer like Attorney Ayers can help determine who was at fault for the accident and also help you deal with the insurance company.
Essentially, they'll take care of everything that's accident-related, allowing you to focus on recovering and getting back on your feet.
7. Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you don't think you're injured, it's important to see a doctor after an accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. And, if you wait too long to seek medical treatment, the insurance company may argue that your injuries aren't related to the accident.
Conclusion
While it is unfortunate to find yourself in an accident, these are the things you can do to make life a little easier for you. Everything from contacting the police and taking pictures down to reaching out to a lawyer will help you make your case. This will help you obtain the compensation you deserve from your insurance company and allow you to proceed quickly with your normal life once more.
The Law Office Of Tiecia Ayers is a law firm that services and assists injured clients nationally. If you are looking for representationSouth Bend, Mishawaka or Houston , contact us today!