Even the tiniest of fender benders can send Virginia drivers and their passengers into a tailspin. It is stressful being in a car accident — no matter how serious the accident is — and this is why it is important that individuals are aware of what they should do to protect their rights following an accident.
The most important thing to remember is to get medical help first. Then, call the police so they can evaluate the accident scene and determine who was at fault. Next, make sure to fully cooperate with emergency medical personnel and any officers once they arrive.
Be sure to write down the license plate information of all vehicles that were involved in the crash. Get drivers’ names, telephone numbers, addresses and insurance information as well. Get the same information for any potential witnesses who may have seen the events leading up to the collision.
For the purpose of dealing with insurance, contact all of your insurance companies to notify them of the incident. For the purpose of protecting your innocence and building a potential personal injury liability case, take pictures of the accident scene and the areas surrounding the crash – preferably before anything can be moved. Also, take pictures of your injuries, both after the crash and while they are healing. Make note of any work that you missed and any medical appointments relating to injuries. Do not forget to make a list of all property damage and valuations of the damage received from your insurance carrier.
Finally, get in touch with a personal injury attorney who is qualified to represent you in a motor vehicle accident case. A personal injury attorney can help determine if you have a viable claim for financial damages relating to your personal injuries and property damages. Your attorney can also help you try and seek financial restitution to pay for those injuries in the event that a viable claim exists.
Source: FindLaw, “Car accident dos and don’ts” Nov. 26, 2014