Seven Important Steps to Take after a Car Accident
Have you been injured in an auto accident? The aftermath of an accident is chaotic. Still, it’s important to defend your rights – even as the dust is still settling.
As soon as an accident takes place, we at Salmu Law recommend that you take these steps:
Check for injuries: First and foremost, check those around you for injury. That includes the other driver. This will help you report the situation accurately when calling emergency services.
Call the police: Call the police and report the accident. This ensures assistance will arrive as soon as possible. It will also establish documentation of the accident you'll need for any court case.
Don’t accept blame: No matter the details of the accident, do not accept blame. Saying you didn’t see the other driver, a light or a sign may undermine your case.
Talk to witnesses and photograph the area: Many people will stop when they witness an accident. Get their phone numbers and other contact information. If you have a smartphone or camera, photograph the accident scene and damaged vehicles.
Get the other driver’s information: If the other driver is cooperative, be sure to ask for insurance and contact information. Even if the driver doesn’t want to talk, you can record the vehicle's license plate number.
Stay until the police arrive: The police will want you to make a statement about the accident. You can be forthcoming with them, but you do not need to implicate yourself. Find out how you can get a copy of the police report for your records. You can also ask the officers to ticket the other driver.
Get a medical checkup right away: You should see a doctor right away, even if an accident seems minor. This helps prove your injuries were caused by the accident. You may be eligible for compensation related to your medical expenses. Remember: Some injuries, such as whiplash, can be subtle and might take days to fully appear.
The Most Important Step: Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer
Even if you feel the facts are clear – or you believe you might have been responsible for the accident – you should speak to an attorney right away. At Salmu Law Firm, you’ll connect with car accident attorneys in San Diego and El Cajon who’ll fight for your rights.