Being involved in a car accident could be the most stressful and gruesome process you could ever experience. Not only that you’re faced with a broken car which you’d have to bring to the mechanic, you’d possibly be subjected to a dispute in liability with the other driver. And knowing who’s right or wrong in a car accident is very subjective to its own when the emotions are still high. However, these things shouldn’t have to be harder than what it already is. Here’s what you can do.
Assess The Situation
Assessing the situation involves checking in with your surroundings and your passengers. Are you or your passenger/s injured? Is your car badly damaged? Can you still drive to the side away from the main road? Is your vehicle totaled? Questions like these allow you to not only assess what you’re going to do, but it also helps you bring back to the present when you are in a shock. It’s important to be mentally present. It enables you to think clearly and call necessary help should you or your passenger/s require one.
Call The Police
Even if there are no serious injuries present to parties involved, it’s important to call and inform the police of what happened. Even minor accidents have to be reported. The police will then make a report of what happened, thereby allowing you to file insurance from your provider.
Exchange Details
By law, it is required to exchange details with other parties involved. Most times, the attending police officers obtain information such as name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver license number and license plate number for the driver and the owner of each vehicle. However, if there are no police present at the time, make sure to list all these information down for future reference.
Document Everything
Keep a documentation of everything. Take note of the accident location, date, and time. Take photos of the street, including any signages, damages to yours and the other party’s car. Take down witnesses details, if there are any. A witness means that it should be an independent person not related to any parties involved – could be a bystander, jogger, or even a CCTV footage from a nearby convenience store, who happened to be in the location while the accident happened.
Know Your Right
While being in a car accident is completely nerve wracking, it is important to still be vigilant and watch what you’re going to say. Insurance companies may require a statement of the incident. It is important to talk to a personal injury lawyer first before making one in order for your rights to be protected. Your attorney can provide you with the best advice possible to ensure that you are fully compensated.
Car accidents are horrible experiences anyone could ever have. But it shouldn’t be all that bad – getting help and assistance from an attorney is the best way to go through this challenging time.
