What Should I Do at the Scene of an Accident?

By Staff Reporter - 28 Nov '19 21:14PM
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  • What Should I Do at the Scene of an Accident?
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In 2014, there were 11 fatal car accidents in Oxnard. Hundreds of others experienced serious injuries in collision. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, the steps you take after your accident can change your life. If you're involved in an accident, follow all of these tips and be on your way to recovery.

1. Check for Injuries

Before you take any other action, assess the situation. Are you injured? If not, are your passengers injured? You should check the other vehicles for injured passengers and call an ambulance if needed. Although you don't want to move injured victims unless absolutely necessary, you should do your best to make sure everyone is out of danger.

Try to make a mental note of any pain you feel. Even if you don't see any bruises or lacerations on yourself, you could have an internal injury. Pay attention to how you feel and don't dismiss minor pain. It may be a sign of a more serious issue.

2. Remain on the Scene

No matter how minor the accident may seem, do not leave the scene. You could be charged with a hit and run. Be sure to remain at the scene until the police arrive and document the accident.

According to California laws, all drivers involved in any accident need to stop. The accident could involve a pedestrian, mailbox, or another vehicle. In any case, you need to fully stop at the scene.

3. Call the Police

In California, you must call the police if an accident caused an injury or death. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't call the police for a collision only involving vehicle damage. After a fender bender, it may be in your best interest to contact the police.

This is because the police will create a police report about the incident. Then, the insurance company will rely on the police report to determine liability. Instead of depending on your own insurance company to pay for the vehicle repair, you may be able to go through the other party's insurance. In addition to saving you on a deductible, this also prevents your insurance premiums from rising.

4. Exchange Information

As you wait for the police, exchange information with the other driver. Take a picture of their license plate, write down their name, and record their insurance information.

You should also collect information from witnesses. If anyone stuck around after the crash, ask them for their contact details. They could provide testimony that supports your claim.

After you've exchanged information with everyone, take pictures of the accident scene. Look for the closest intersection sign and take a picture. You should also take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the other party's vehicle. If there were any road hazards that contributed to the accident, collect photographic evidence of them.

5. Call a Lawyer

When you're ready to take action and seek compensation for your accident, call an experienced car accident attorney. They will help you handle the insurance company and explain your options for seeking compensation. In some cases, they may file a personal injury claim against the other driver.

After a crash, your life could change forever. While there's no guarantee you'll heal from your injuries, there are ways to secure financial compensation for your medical bills, missed wages, and car repairs. Contact lawyer Kenneth King to learn more about what you need to do after your accident.

Copyright © 2017 News Everyday
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of newseveryday.com

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