Steps to Take If You’re Injured in a Car Accident
Steps to Take If You’re Injured in a Car Accident
It can be difficult to think clearly after a car accident, particularly if you’ve sustained injuries. However, it’s important to try to remain calm and take certain steps to protect your legal rights. Doing so can improve your chances of successfully obtaining injury compensation near San Jose with the help of your car accident lawyer. If you’re ever unsure of what you should do following an accident, your lawyer can help.
Assess the Situation
Immediately after the collision, check yourself, your passengers, and other involved parties for serious injuries. If anyone has sustained severe lacerations or other bleeding injuries, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth or item of clothing. Check to see if your car is in the path of oncoming traffic. If so, try to move your car to the side of the road if possible. You could also set out flares if you have any.
Make a Few Phone Calls
As soon as possible, call 911 and inform the emergency dispatcher that you’ve been in a car crash. Let him or her know if anyone may require emergency medical attention and advise him or her of the location of the crash. Once emergency responders are on their way, you may wish to arrange legal representation. When you speak with a car accident lawyer, you can ask him or her what information you’ll need to gather and which steps you should take next.
Gather Information
By gathering as much information as you can, you’re helping your lawyer substantiate your claim. Your lawyer will need information such as the other driver’s full name, contact information, insurance carrier, insurance policy number, and driver’s license number. You should also write down the make, model, and color of the car, and the license plate number. Write down the names and contact information for all passengers and any nearby witnesses, if applicable. Then, make some notes about the circumstances of the crash. When the police arrive, write down their names and badge numbers, and get a copy of the police report.
Get Medical Help
Even if you do not think you’ve been seriously injured, you need to see a physician promptly. Go to the ER or nearest urgent care clinic and let the staff know you’ve just been involved in a car crash and you need to be evaluated. Keep all records of your medical treatment and related costs.
