Steps To Take After A Car Accident

What to Do After a Car Accident

Trusted Guidance from Farah Law

At some point in most people's lives, they will be an automotive accident. While some collisions may seem minor, with apparently little damage and seemingly minor injuries, the harms and losses could ultimately be substantial. All car accidents require immediate action to obtain the best possible recovery for your harms and losses. Our El Paso car accident lawyers are happy to present the following guide for all those who want to be prepared for a possible auto accident and take proactive efforts towards a full recovery from your harms and losses.

1. Call the Police

Contacting law enforcement is always the first necessary step following a collision. The police can help establish the details of an accident, provide an official accident report, help divert traffic, and mediate, if needed, between the drivers involved. Make sure you obtain the police report as soon as possible to check for inaccuracies. If there are any inaccuracies, contact the investigating officer as soon as possible to resolve the inaccuracies.

2. Accept Medical Treatment

The health and well-being of those involved in the car accident is a top priority after a collision occurs. If you or your passengers have been hurt, make sure to follow the instructions of emergency medical personnel who arrive at the scene. If you are able, please check on all persons involved in the accident to make sure they are not injured.

3. Take Photographs of Both Vehicles

Photographing the damage suffered in the collision is the first step in documenting the accident. Ensure that all damage, on both vehicles, is photographed (with an available mobile phone camera), from multiple, clear angles with as much available light as possible.

4. Take Down Names of Witnesses

If other drivers or pedestrians witnessed your collision, then they are a resource in helping document what exactly happened. Be sure to get their names and phone numbers so that, if necessary, they can provide an account of the circumstances of your accident.

5. Take a Photo of the Other Motorist's Driver's License and Insurance Card

All drivers involved in the accident should exchange license information and insurance information. Use your cell phone camera to take a sharp, readable photograph of the other driver’s license and insurance information. It is not uncommon for drivers involved in auto accidents to give incorrect or false information.

6. Refrain from Giving a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver's Insurance Carrier

Once an insurance company is informed that their insured was involved in an auto accident, they will likely take measures to deflect fault from their insured to save from paying for repairs or medical bills. This means that they will try to contact you to get recorded a statement. Always decline to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance carrier. It is in your best interest to hire a lawyer before you talk to any insurance company.

7. Hire a Personal Injury Attorney as Soon as Possible

Dealing with insurance companies after an auto accident can be intimidating and stressful. A dedicated and skilled personal injury attorney can help you through every step of this process. Make sure you hire a personal injury attorney to ensure that your rights are protected, and to properly advocate for any reimbursement you are entitled to.

Have more questions? Do not hesitate to contact us at Farah Law. Our compassionate and experienced team is ready to hear your story during a free case evaluation.