If you are involved in an auto accident, it can be challenging to keep a clear head and take the right steps. The first priority is attending to any injuries that you or others may have, and making sure there is no continuing danger from oncoming traffic. The list below should be a guideline for your next actions.
1. Call For Medical Assistance
For serious injuries or even suspected medical conditions, an ambulance should be called to the scene. It is best for treatment to occur soon, avoiding complications and saving travel time to a hospital even if you feel able to drive.
2. Contact The Police
This step is essential to provide an official report of what actually happened and how the accident was caused. Without a police report, you will not have any official documentation to support future claims of liability or fault.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
The number of your company should be in your car at all times. Call them as soon as you can and they will tell you what to do next to file a claim.
4. Write Down the Contact Information Of Other Drivers Involved
You will want their address, phone number, license plate number and insurance policy name and number. You can give them the same information in the exchange to facilitate contact.
5. Take Photos If Possible
Photos of the scene can provide helpful documentation of damage to the vehicles, proximity to the accident and road condition.
6. Document The Details Of The Accident
Facts such as weather, visibility and time of day may be essential in making a claim and establishing the cause of the accident.
7. Don’t Make Any Assertions Of Fault
There is no reason to accuse the other driver or admit fault for the accident. It is best to leave those conclusions to the insurance and legal process that follows. Admitting fault could compromise any legal claim you wish to pursue in the future.
8. Don’t Discuss Your Injuries Or Injuries Of Others Involved
This is the responsibility of responding medical teams, and it is better to leave the evaluation of injuries to them. It maybe a good idea to search online to find a third-party to contact in regards to this, we suggest an seo company located in long island. Discussing your injuries or the injuries of involved parties could potentially compromise a claim in the future if you wish to pursue one.
9. Leave Settlement Offers For Later
You can’t arrive at a fair settlement on the spot, even if a tempting offer is made to “make things right.” You could be limited to this offer, if you accept it willingly. Never accept a settlement offer from anyone without first consulting an attorney.
10. Call An Attorney
Even if you are unsure of who is at fault for the accident, it is wise to call an attorney right away to relay the facts while they are still fresh in your mind. An Idaho auto accident attorney can help you decide on the best course of action, and what possible outcomes may be achieved.
If you have been in a car accident, you should have the best attorney possible to represent you in any settlement discussions or litigation that may result. The Rossman Law Group can be at your side throughout the claims process, and help you evaluate the accident details and obtain any compensation that you may deserve. Call today for an appointment at 208-331-2030.
