Despite increases in vehicle safety technology, car accident statistics remain alarmingly high. Did you know that nearly 43,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2021? This amounts to 5 people dying every hour in the United States.
The number of significant personal injuries is even higher. Many people do not know what to do when they are involved in a vehicular accident. Without question, it is a traumatic experience with many potential complications.
Read on to learn what you should do after car accidents. Explore 4 things you must do after a car crash including reaching out to a lawyer.
1. Contact First Responders
The first thing to do is undoubtedly contact your local police department or emergency medical services. Making sure that everyone receives the care they need is the top priority.
Even if you feel fine, it is important to get evaluated by a trained professional. There may be serious injuries hidden in plain sight that require follow-on care.
Also, responding police officers write up a report detailing the circumstances behind the accident. This report may prove pivotal in adjudicating a personal injury legal case down the road.
2. Exchange Information
It is critical to exchange contact information with all parties involved in the accident. More than just a name and phone number, you should take down the other parties’ license plate numbers, insurance information, and make and model of the vehicle.
If possible, it is wise to ask for a copy of a driver’s license to verify identity. It is not unheard of for at-fault drivers to provide a fake name and telephone number.
Lastly, you should exchange phone numbers with any witnesses. Their testimony may prove invaluable if the case goes to trial.
3. Photograph the Scene
The police report is only one piece of evidence in a potential trial. It is a good strategy to take photographs of the accident.
Start with the location of the accident taking photos of nearby traffic lights and street signs. Also, take photographs of both damaged vehicles and any contributing factors to the accident.
4. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
The final step is to reach out to a top car accident lawyer, Dagoberto Rodriguez being a good example. The road to recovery after a significant car accident can be long and expensive.
In many cases, the victim is forced to miss work and undergo extensive physical therapy. Some victims are forced to stay in the hospital after the accident for a long period of time.
These medical bills and lost wages all add up. You should be financially victimized on top of the accident itself. A car accident attorney can help you obtain financial justice for the accident fallout.
4 Things You Must Do After Car Accidents
You are now prepared for the aftermath of a car accident. Exchanging information and taking photographs are critical steps that may help you later.
It is important to understand that the accident is not over after both parties leave the scene. Medical and legal fallout means that the accident has implications for many months after.
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