Approximately 93% of all car accidents are caused by DUI, poor driving, inattention, and other human errors. If you’ve been involved in an automobile accident, it’s your legal right to seek damages for physical and mental injuries suffered. Yet many people aren’t awarded sufficient compensation because they overlook several critical things to do (or not do) at the scene of the accident. Here’s what you need to know.
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Do NOT Panic
The pain, shock, and confusion you experience instantly after an accident may cause you to want to flee the scene of the crash. However, it is against the law to flee the scene of an accident and if you’re not the responsible party, running away will weaken your case. Instead, stay calm and phone for help.
DO Record as Many Details as Possible
Record:
- Accident details such as: how it occurred, whether the signal was green or red, what other cars were involved, etc.
- Date and time
- Other factors, including visibility, weather, etc.
Always keep small journal and a pencil in your automobile. Additionally, use your mobile phone camera to take photographs of the accident site and your injuries. Photographs can be very powerful evidence when it comes to supporting your claim later on.
Do NOT Admit Fault
After an automobile accident, the other party will almost certainly attempt to nail the blame on you. In the confusion of an accident, you may not recall much about what occurred. For example, you may incorrectly believe you caused the accident. An investigation into the car accident will disclose who was responsible and it’s not necessary for you to admit or deny fault at all at the scene. Suggesting that it was your error will reduce your odds of receiving adequate reparation.
Do NOT Blow Off Legal Formalities
The next significant step would be to notify law enforcement as soon as possible after the accident. Typically, law enforcement officers are called to the scene in most cases. Don’t neglect this step — contacting law enforcement is critical. Supply your insurance records at the time of reporting the injury. Discuss the injury in detail with the authorities, but as mentioned before, don’t discuss your error or potential responsibility.
DO See a Physician Immediately
Visit a physician promptly after an automobile accident, even if you haven’t suffered serious injuries. The medical examination report is among the most significant records for filing a compensation claim.
DO Speak With an Attorney
Don’t hesitate to contact an accident attorney right away. Call Chalker Injury Law for a car crash consultation at (678) 319-9991.