Cars are usually a safe and convenient method of transportation – when drivers adhere to the rules of the road. But we all know that there are times when other drivers sometimes become distracted by their phones, travel at unsafe speeds or drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In these circumstances, no matter how safe you are, disaster can still occur due to someone else’s negligence on the road.
It is common to first feel shocked and upset if you have suffered an injury in a car accident because of another driver’s negligent actions. It is so important not to let the confusion and chaos overwhelm you and make sure you take the proper steps to keep control over your life.
Evaluate the Situation
At the time of the accident, make sure to check yourself and others for any injuries. If there are any life-threatening or severe injuries, immediately call for an ambulance. What might seem like a minor injury to you, become more serious over time, so it is very important to consult a doctor within a couple of days of the accident to get an evaluation.
As soon as everyone’s safety has been established, contact 911 so a police officer can arrive on the scene to make an incident report. The incident report become an important piece of information in the future if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Stay at the Scene
It is not uncommon for people in an accident to go in a minor state of shock. Sometimes they will leave the scene of an accident in confused, fog-like state. It is very important to stay of the scene of the accident until all of the authorities arrive and have spoken to you.
They need to get your information, even if the accident was not your fault. The information gathered at the scene, including any witness information could prove useful to your personal injury claim.
Document Everything
Write everything down. Take pictures. The best way to build an effective personal injury claim is to include as much evidence of what happened as possible.
Documentation is key.
Take pictures of all the cars involved and any property that was damaged as a result of the accident. Save all of your medical records and receipts relating to any injuries, treatments, and medications you received as a result of the accident.
If possible, keep a journal of how you have been impacted by the accident. How has your daily life been changed – physically, emotionally, financially, etc.
It is extremely important to reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you take the next steps toward recovering the compensation you deserve.
Zucker Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, APC is here to help you successfully pursue financial damages following an accident in Temecula, San Diego and Riverside County, Call (951) 699-2100