Car wrecks, trucking accidents and other motor vehicle wrecks can create numerous problems for you and those involved. These tips will assist you in dealing with issues involved in virtually every car wreck.
- Call the police. Always call the police. In most jurisdictions it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident. So stop, call the police and wait for them to arrive.
- Get the names and contact information of all people who may have witnessed the incident. I consult with people all the time who tell me that so-and-so came up to me at the wreck and said that they saw it and that it was the other person’s fault. Then, they tell me that they didn’t get the name and phone number of the person. Lo and behold, it doesn’t show up on a police report. What happens? No witnesses oftentimes means a swearing match regarding fault. Get people’s names and insist that the police investigating the incident do the same.
- Document what happened. Take pictures at the scene. Photograph tag numbers of vehicles that may have stopped. Write down a short statement of what you remember happening as soon after the incident as possible.
- If you are injured, go to the doctor or emergency room as soon as possible. Do not refuse treatment. Oftentimes pain will not show up for several hours as the body and mind begin to relax after the initial impact. Objective review of your medical condition offers irrefutable proof of your injuries. You will need this information for your claim.
- Remember, the insurance company for the person who caused the wreck or accident is not your friend. They work for the insurance company and represent the other driver. They will not be looking to pay you the full value of your claim. If you find that you are unable to deal with them, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
If you have been injured in a car wreck or accident of any kind and it is not your fault, you are entitled to be repaid for your injuries.
