When you are involved in a car accident, many things may be occurring at once. Not only will you be concerned about your injuries as well as those of any others involved in the accident, but your emotions will also be running high as well. However, despite all this, it is vital you be able to do certain things immediately following the accident. By doing so, you will be able to gather key evidence and other details that may be important should you file a car accident lawsuit. If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a car accident, contact the car accident attorneys at the Law offices of Beninato & Matrafajlo, who have the good experience and knowledge to protect your legal rights.
Call Police
If someone else has not already done so, call police to the accident scene. While waiting for them to arrive, always stay at the scene, check on those involved in the accident, and wait for medical help to arrive. By having police at the scene, a police report will be filed, which can be crucial to proving your car accident claim.
Exchange Information
While at the scene, always attempt to exchange information with other drivers and passengers at the scene. This should include such information as:
–Names
–Phone Numbers
–Addresses
–Insurance information
–Driver’s License and License Plate Numbers
By having this information readily available, you can provide your car accident attorney with information that will be needed when preparing your lawsuit.
Don’t Apologize
While this may feel like the natural thing to do, never apologize while at the accident scene. Since it may not be clear who was at fault for the accident, saying anything that sounds as though you did something wrong could open you up to potential legal liability. Therefore, be very careful with your words at the accident scene and afterwards.
Beware of Insurance Companies
After you have filed a car accident claim, you will likely be contacted by the other driver’s insurance company. If this occurs, be very wary. In most instances, the insurer will try to trick you into admitting the accident was your fault, or will attempt to convince you to take a quick settlement that is far less than you could possibly receive if you file and win a car accident lawsuit. Rather than deal with insurance companies yourself, refer all communications to your car accident attorney.
Since you will likely need financial compensation for medical treatments, lost wages, and pain and suffering, always schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney immediately to discuss the details of filing a car accident lawsuit.