You might not think that a car accident will ever happen to you, but really, few people do. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2014 there were 13,675 serious crashes reported in a year, leading to the injuries of 17,152 people.
The aftermath of a car accident can sometimes be a scary affair. You or someone you love could be injured, your car might be severely damaged, and your life may be forever changed.
Always keep in mind that the steps you take after a car accident are very important. Not doing something important can have long-term ramifications, and could cause a massive headache down the road if you are not diligent.
An experienced automobile accident attorney will be able to provide advice and fight for your rights. However, there are some steps you can take yourself right after an accident that will assist immensely in supporting your cause.
Top 5 Things To Do Following An Automobile Accident
- Call 911. If you or someone else is hurt, ensure that proper medical care is administered. You will also want an official police report drafted regarding the accident, both for your insurance company and for a potential lawsuit.
- Assess The Damage. If you are too injured, ask a bystander to take photos of the accident scene and surrounding area. Take special note about the road conditions or weather at the time of the accident. Insurance companies often rely on this type of evidence as they make decisions regarding payments and compensation.
- Exchange Contact Information. Make sure to get the personal contact information of the other party, even if the actual accident was mild. Make a note of the license plates and insurance card information of any other drivers or their vehicles. It would be prudent as well to collect contact information for any witnesses, as they could serve as powerful advocates for your case.
- Get Witness Statements. If someone witnessed the accident, ask them for their contact information and, if you can, get a brief statement from them before they leave.
- Journal Your Care. If you are injured, you will want to keep a separate journal of medical appointments, diagnoses and treatment information. It is also advisable to keep track of time off of work; mileage expended getting to treatment and all monies expended as a result of the accident. Keeping good on-going records will make it easier to build your case and alleviates headaches down the road.
Of course, the best thing you can do for yourself or a loved one who has been involved in an automobile accident is to enlist the help of an automobile accident attorney. The Tony Nguyen Law Firm assists clients just like you in assessing your case and getting the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation.