Steps You Should Take After a Car Accident
After being involved in a car accident of any severity, a person’s life can be changed drastically. While only the most severe car accidents will likely lead to fatal or life-threatening injuries, even minor accidents can lead to some level of harm as well as vehicular damage. Regardless of the type of accident you have been involved in, there are a few steps that all people should take in the immediate aftermath of an accident. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, it is time to reach out to a knowledgeable personal injury attorney.
Contacting Emergency Personnel
When a person is involved in a car accident, it can be hard to regain a calm and collected mindset, but your ability to act in a prudent manner is critically important to the health of all passengers and the wellbeing of your family. First and foremost, if any person in your vehicle has suffered an injury, you need to contact medical personnel. Serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries can showcase delayed symptoms and cause permanent damage if untreated. Visiting a medical professional will also give you an accurate understanding of all injuries suffered as it may pertain to an insurance claim or personal injury case.
It is equally important to contact local law enforcement officials after an accident. If the other driver had plans of fleeing the scene, threat of law enforcement involvement may encourage them to stay. It should also be noted that in many cases, insurance companies will request an accident when you are filing a claim. If the driver was acting in a negligent manner, such as drinking and driving, a police report can be invaluable in a personal injury case.
Record As Much Information As Possible
When waiting for police arrival, it is important for you to record as much information as possible regarding the collision. The first step you should take is taking a picture of the driver’s license plate if the driver flees the scene this information will be critically important to the police. If the driver is acting in an appropriate manner, gather their insurance information. If possible, note whether the driver was texting and driving, speeding, or displaying other forms of reckless driving. If any witnesses were present at the time of the accident, document their names and contact information. Having a non-biased account of the accident can be critical in a personal injury case.
Contact an Aurora Car Accident Attorney
At Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Mazur, P.C., we fully understand the ramifications of a car accident. Serious injuries can have a long-term effect on the physical health of the injured party and emotional health of an entire family. We also recognize that significant medical expenses and vehicular damage can be incredibly costly. With that in mind, our firm is dedicated to helping our clients secure the compensation they need in the aftermath of a motor vehicle collision. To schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced Kane County personal injury lawyer, call us today at 630-907-0909.
Source:
https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2018-07-03/7-steps-to-take-after-a-car-accident
