Your 6 Steps to Take After a Crash
While you never leave your house expecting a crash to occur, it’s all too often a common reality. In fact, millions of crashes occur each year. As a result, people suffer significant injuries, and those who endure harm have to get insurance adjusters involved.
Before you do anything, though, it’s vital to know the six steps you should take after a car accident so that you may protect your rights. Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers want you to safeguard your ability to pursue compensation. Below, we will give you an idea of what you should do following a serious crash.
The six steps you should take after a crash include the following:
- Call a lawyer
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Take photos of the accident
- Contact law enforcement
- Speak with witnesses
- Get medical assistance
Call our firm today at (855) 906-3699 and learn more about your rights and options after a severe crash.
1. Call a Lawyer
Be sure to reach out to a lawyer before you do anything else. Unfortunately, even if you feel your insurance company is looking out for you, they often have a business model that protects their own interests. Insurance companies are often quick to minimize claims when they feel their profits are threatened.
An attorney can help you file your claim from the very beginning, protecting you from many of the tactics that insurance companies may use against you. Hire a lawyer quickly and show insurance adjusters you mean business.
2. Exchange Information
While you don’t want to speak with insurance adjusters alone, you should speak with the other driver you feel is responsible for the crash. Exchange vital information with the other driver so that you can begin the claims-filing process. Here is some of the information you should exchange:
- Driver’s license
- Insurance information
- Contact information
It helps to have as much information as possible.
3. Take Photos
The photos you take can help build your case. For instance, pictures of the accident scene show signs of negligence, such as tire marks from a driver braking erratically. Photos of damage on both your car and the other vehicle can give accident reconstructionists an idea of liability. Pictures of visible injuries can help you when speaking with your lawyer and doctor. Take as many pictures as possible.
4. Contact Law Enforcement
You may not be required to call law enforcement after a Los Angeles crash. However, it is never a bad idea — especially when severe injuries occur, and you have significant vehicle damage. Police officers can put together a report detailing what may have happened and statements from all parties involved.
5. Speak with Witnesses
If you notice any witnesses in the area, speak with them, and ask for a statement. Ask them to detail what they saw. If they are willing to provide you with a statement, try to get it in writing along with a date and signature.
6. Get Medical Assistance
Your health is of the utmost importance, and you want to be sure that you start treatment as soon as possible. Make sure you seek emergency medical assistance after the crash. Even if you don’t feel the effects of a crash immediately, you may still experience ongoing injuries. Latency and adrenaline can both impact when you feel your injuries.
At BD&J, PC, we commit to providing you with the highest quality care and legal representation possible. Trust that our Los Angeles car accident lawyers will work with you to help you understand your options. Let us give you a voice and pursue the compensation you deserve.
CALL OUR FIRM TODAY AT (855) 906-3699 FOR YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION.
