A car accident is often a very traumatic event. Stress and injuries may affect your ability to think clearly. Sometimes injured clients are physically unable to consider these maters but if you are able the information that you obtain at the time of the accident can be a critical element in your case. After an accident:
- Stay as calm as possible.
- Stop your car immediately at the scene of the crash. If at all possible stop in an area that does not obstruct the regular flow of traffic.
- Check for injuries. Life and health are more important than damage to vehicles. When in doubt, call an ambulance.
- Turn on hazard lights. If warranted, and possible, use cones, warning triangles or flares for safety.
- Contact the police to make an immediate report of the accident and remain at the scene until an officer arrives.
- The officer will likely prepare an exchange of information form and make a formal report.
- If the officer does not provide the information make sure that you acquire each driver's car insurance information including the name of the person insured on the vehicle, the company's name and telephone number if known and the number of the insurance policy.
- Speak with any potential witnesses in the area. Acquire their names, addresses and telephone numbers.
- Cooperate with the police in preparing an accident report.
- Visually review the scene of the accident, make immediate notes about the accident including the specific damages to all vehicles involved. If a pen and paper is not available, make a mental note of approximate distances, the weather conditions and any other visual information such as skid marks and vehicle damage.
- If you have a camera handy, and it is safe to do so, it may be helpful to photograph the accident scene.
- After the accident photograph the exterior and interior of the vehicles involved in the accident.
- Consult with a physician immediately if you are experiencing any pain or discomfort. A delay may raise questions whether the pain or discomfort was in fact caused by the accident.
- Do not fill out any insurance documents, releases or provide recorded statements without first consulting with a lawyer.
