Steps to take if you’re ever involved in a car accident
Have you ever been involved in an auto accident? If so, it’s important to know that getting into your car and driving away can be more than just dangerous; it can also put you at risk of serious legal repercussions. In most cases, if you’re involved in an accident, the best course of action is to stay at the scene until law enforcement officials arrive and complete their investigation. While this might not be easy to do, especially if injuries are involved, there are many reasons why it’s important to wait for law enforcement officials before leaving the scene of an accident.
Call the Police
Before calling an ambulance, it’s important to call 911 and report your accident. You can also ask any other witnesses around for their contact information and ask them what they saw—this will come in handy later. Calling an ambulance is absolutely necessary once there are injuries or symptoms of shock. Don’t let someone convince you otherwise.
Call your Insurance Company
If your car is damaged, call your insurance company immediately. Make sure you are clear on what they are going to do for you. They should give you temporary coverage while they evaluate your case. If someone is injured, get names and phone numbers of witnesses who can be contacted later about what happened. Do not admit guilt or apologize for what happened. Accept responsibility only if necessary – depending on who caused it and how much damage occurred.
Get Medical Treatment
Depending on how severe your injuries are, getting medical treatment right away is crucial. Even small issues can quickly escalate into much larger problems, especially when left untreated. The longer it takes for treatment, the more likely you are to suffer long-term damage or complications from your injury. Contacting paramedics immediately following an auto accident is crucial for preventing further injury and ensuring your safety.
Contact Your Lawyer
An auto injury lawyer is there to help their clients and can advise them on what they need to do. If you’re having trouble deciding who will best suit your needs, ask around for recommendations, look at their legal history and review online reviews from previous clients. The most important thing is finding someone who works for you. Don’t be afraid of an attorney trying too hard or taking up too much of your time—the worst they can do is say no.