No one likes getting into an accident and because it is not an every day event, people usually do not know what to do or what not to do. So, here is a simple guideline to tell you what to do and what not to do after a car accident.
1. Stay calm and keep your cool. Depending on the severity of the accident and of your injuries, take a deep breath and collect yourself. Do not get into an argument with the other driver. Do not talk about the cause of the accident or fault - remember that anything you say can be used against you later.
2. Exchange all pertinent information, including names, addresses (both home and business), telephone numbers (home and business), driver's license number, vehicle license number, and insurance information. If the other driver refuses to provide you with any information, you may need to contact law enforcement.
3. If possible, take pictures of the other car. Remember that most cell phones come with a camera and although it may not be of the best quality, use the camera in your phone to take pictures. Many times, drivers will have their car fixed but fail to take a picture. So, this may be your only chance to take a picture of the other car.
4. If you are injured, call law enforcement and ask that they come out to make a report. Although getting a Traffic Collision Report may not be necessary, it can be helpful unless you are the party at fault. Depending on the location of the accident, it could be the Sheriff (local streets), CHP (freeway) or LAPD.
5. If you are injured and need medical attention, get checked out by a professional. If at the scene, you may need paramedics. Otherwise, depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need to visit urgent care or the emergency room. This step depends on the severity of your injuries.
6. After getting checked out, you may need treatment. Remember that getting checked out by paramedics, or getting checked out at urgent care or the emergency room is NOT the same as getting treated for your injuries.
If you suffer from a serious injury, you may need surgery or need a cast for broken bones followed by physical therapy. If you suffer from soft tissue injuries, such as strains or sprains, whiplash and back pain, you will need treatment to alleviate those symptoms. Remember that medication will not heal your injured muscles and without treatment, your injured muscles will develop scar tissue which could lead to long term problems.
Do not wait to start on your treatment. Often times, injured parties wait to see if their symptoms subside before seeking treatment - they do not and all you will be doing is hurting yourself physically and hurting your injury case (the longer you wait to get treated, the harder it is to make an injury claim against the other side).
7. Do not discuss the accident with the insurance company representing the other side without first contacting an attorney. Never give a statement without speaking with an attorney first.
8. Do not sign any authorization forms given to you by the adverse insurance company.
9. Call an experienced personal injury attorney. It is best way to protect yourself.
