Recommendations for Dealing with a Car Accident

A car accident is an unexpected, unforeseen, and almost always traumatic experience, but being prepared is the best way to get through what will undoubtedly be a trying and taxing time. The following are our recommendations of what to do after a car accident.

First, call the local authorities to report that an accident occurred. Generating a formal accident report by the appropriate governmental agency will establish how the collision occurred, what parties were involved in the collision, and which party was at fault. This accident report will be the starting point of any personal injury claim you wish to pursue.

Second, take pictures of the accident scene, surrounding area, and your injuries. Make sure to take photos of any traffic signals and signs, the road conditions, and any other pertinent parts of the accident scene. It will be important to recreate what happened if you wish to pursue a personal injury claim. Also, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved. Most importantly, immediately take pictures of the injuries that you sustained in the accident including any cuts, bruises, and other physical indications of your injuries. The damage to your car may be repaired and your injuries may heal; thus, taking pictures is the best way to document this evidence.

Third, when considering what to do after a car accident, you should talk with all parties involved in the accident and get their contact information, including their names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and auto insurance information. The parties’ contact information will become necessary in order to file a claim against the insurance company for the at-fault driver.

Fourth of what to do after a car accident, is to interview any of the witnesses to the accident. Document their contact information, including their name, address, phone number, and a brief description of the witness’s version of events. Having corroborating testimony, besides that of your own, is essential to what to do after an accident.

Fifth, seek medical attention quickly and promptly for any injuries that you sustained. The importance of seeking medical treatment cannot be overstated. Upon seeking treatment, make sure you clearly describe how you were injured and the extent of your injuries.

What to do after a car accident is not a scenario any of us wish to ever be in or think of. If you are ever involved in a motor vehicle collision follow our recommendations and also contact an experienced Phoenix personal injury attorney for further guidance.