If you’ve been in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be wondering what to do next. Do you call the police? Do you take witness photos? Or, do you need to ring your insurance company first? So many questions will be running through your head, and it can be hard to concentrate. Knowing what to do after car accidents that are not your fault, therefore, is paramount when it comes to obtaining the damages that you are entitled to. These will not just relate to your vehicle but any injuries sustained that prevent you from working to full capacity. By following all the necessary tips, you are giving yourself the best chance of success.
So, here are some steps to take to ensure you get the help you need
Take Notes
First, document the car accident. Take notes at the scene of what happened and any details you can remember about the other driver’s car. Make sure to take photos of all vehicles involved in the accident. This is especially important if you are not at fault for the car accident.
You might already have some dashcam footage and can, if in a position to, then take further photos on your cell phone of the parts missed about the accident scene because of the angles missed to be captured. Some still shots of the accident scene are helpful to support a legal claim for damages.
This is because they provide definite proof and are not just hearsay of how it was. This makes them permissible in court and something of an influencer when it comes to apportioning blame in the right direction.
Witnesses
If there were any witnesses to the car accident, get their contact information. Witnesses can be a valuable source of evidence if you plan to pursue legal action. The good thing about the view of a witness is that it will be an impartial view if they were not directly involved in the accident. They have no incentive to lie, in other words.
Contact the Police to Report the Car Accident
Even if they don’t come to the scene, make sure you file a report with your local police department. This will provide you with an official record of what happened in case you need it for legal action.
If the police do attend, there is no disputing an official report that has been prepared by professionals.
Seek Medical Attention
If you were injured in a car accident, seek medical attention right away. Even if your injuries don’t appear to be serious, it is important to get checked out by a doctor. This will also aid any potential claims for damages.
Medical injuries are proof of the severity of injuries following an accident. This will help raise the level of a damages claim which will benefit the claimant financially.
Contact Your Insurer
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Your car insurance provider will be able to help you determine who is at fault and what steps need to be taken to receive compensation.
It is ultimately the insurer that should deal with the claim but lawyers can handle any dispute over fault or the amount being awarded.
Seek Legal Advice
Finally, seek legal advice if necessary. Depending on the severity of the car accident and the damage caused, it may be useful to consult a car accident lawyer. A legal professional can help you sort out the details of your car accident and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
No matter what kind of car accident you are involved in, it is important to take care of yourself first and foremost. Make sure to speak with a medical professional if necessary, and do not hesitate to seek help from an experienced car accident lawyer if needed. By taking the proper steps, you can ensure that you are not taken advantage of and that you get the help you require.