Getting into a car crash can be disorienting and scary, especially if it was not your fault. It is common for car accidents to cause serious personal injuries as well as property damage to the vehicles. If you are involved in an accident, there are important steps to take to make sure the at-fault party is held responsible, and you receive the compensation you deserve. It is of the utmost importance that you properly document all damage done to your vehicle and any injuries you may have suffered.
You should do the following:
- Pictures of damage – Take from multiple angles and distances. Do this not only for the damage to your vehicle but to the other vehicle and the surrounding area (e.g. a guardrail or sign).
- Other driver’s info – Of the highest importance are name, address, phone number, license number, and insurance policy number. It would also be helpful to know the make and model, color, and vehicle identification number. Try and avoid roadside conversations, as they can be dangerous in heavily trafficked areas. They also can lead to some accidental and inaccurate admissions of guilt, which could complicate the future of the case. Do not tell anyone the accident was your fault.
- Police report – this is the official documentation of the damage done that will be important in insurance claims and legal proceedings. When speaking to the police, stick to the facts of the matter, because statements that can be interpreted as ambiguous or admissions of fault could be used against you.
- Doctor’s report – another form of official documentation, but more importantly it addresses injuries that may not be visible on the surface immediately following collision. If injuries are serious, this should be the first step. Pain and injuries can be masked by adrenaline after a crash, so it is not unusual for it can take hours or days to feel pain.
These four steps are important after the accident because the information will give you the strongest case to make sure the other party is held at fault when taking this to court or dealing with the insurance company.
In the event that you find yourself in a car accident due to someone else's negligence, seeking legal support from Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C. can be helpful in pursuing the compensation you deserve. Our experienced car accident lawyers can investigate your case and provide guidance to help you recover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
Don't delay getting help. Hire the legal support you need today. Call (603) 288-1403 or contact us online to learn more.