Involvements in car accidents are often stressful experiences that leave those affected feeling helpless or stuck. “Even the aftermath can be frustrating as you may feel trapped and unsure how to proceed. But that’s where having an experienced car crash lawyer on your side is crucial,” says lawyer Max Paderewski of Lone Star Injury Attorneys. While insurance is mandatory in most states, 12.6 percent of American drivers lack coverage, leading to financial and legal consequences if an accident occurs. If you have insurance, filing a claim and hiring a capable auto accident lawyer can help you maximize a possible settlement.
Protect and Preserve the Accident Scene
Stay with your vehicle at the accident site and put it into park after coming to a complete stop. If possible, move the vehicle to the side of the road or a safe location. Inform the other parties involved of your intentions to avoid misunderstanding. Keep your flashers on to prevent further collisions, and wait on the side of the road until the police arrive.
Call and Notify the Police
Request police presence, even if there are no injuries sustained. You must obtain a police record to file an insurance claim for automobile damages. Unless traffic is restricted, ensure that the two cars involved in the incident remain where they were immediately after the impact.
Obtain Critical Information
If you are not injured, gather important information such as the names and contact information of everyone involved, the name and policy number of the insurance provider, license plate numbers, and driver’s license numbers. Take down information about the witnesses, including name, phone number, and email.
Secure Pictures
Take multiple photos of the accident scene from various angles, including the damage to your vehicle, the collision site, and the surrounding environment. These images can be useful, especially when attempting to prove your innocence or support the other party’s guilt.
Hire an Experienced Auto Accident Lawyer
Hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer is crucial in complicated incidents, as determining who caused the accident and who is liable for compensation can be challenging. An attorney will help gather evidence to prove that someone else’s negligence caused the collision and guide you through each step of the process to receive a fair settlement.
Why an Experienced Car Accident Attorney is Necessary
Working with a personal injury lawyer ensures you know your rights and have someone fighting for you. A knowledgeable attorney can handle all administrative and documentation tasks on your behalf, especially if your case requires filing a legitimate personal injury claim to obtain just compensation.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in a car accident can be a distressing experience, but knowing what to do at the scene of the accident can help obtain a better settlement. It’s crucial to protect and maintain the accident scene, call and notify the police, obtain critical information, and secure pictures. Hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer is essential for investigating the case and determining who is liable for compensation. By knowing your rights and hiring a skilled personal injury attorney, you can be confident that you will receive a fair settlement. In the aftermath of an auto accident, it is essential to remember to stay calm, follow these steps, and don’t hesitate to seek professional legal help when needed.