You may be feeling confused and frustrated after a car accident. The steps to take to protect yourself legally and help you receive compensation might be the last things on your mind. However, it’s important to know that there are things you will need to do right there at the accident scene that can lay the groundwork for your case before you contact a personal injury lawyer in Calabasas.
The first step after a crash is to make sure you are out of harm’s way. Everyone involved should, if possible, move their vehicles to the side of the road away from traffic. If vehicles are inoperable, stay out of the lanes where other cars are still driving.
Next, call the police. Even if the damage and injuries are minor, a police report can later help your case to prove you were not the one at fault. Law enforcement will also be able to determine if the other driver was intoxicated.
Talk to witnesses and get their contact information. A personal injury lawyer in Calabasas may be able to use this information during your case. Also, exchange insurance information with the other driver.
Seek medical help for injuries, even if they seem mild. Minor injuries, such as whiplash, can show up several days after an accident and may persist for weeks or months. If your injuries land you in the hospital, designate a trusted person to gather the information you will need on your behalf.
It can help to print up crucial info like your name, address, family members and medical information. Keep this information in your glove compartment in case you are ever involved in a serious accident and are unable to act or speak at the scene.
Knowing what steps to take, as well as speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Calabasas, can give you peace of mind knowing that your needs will be taken care of if you or anyone in your family were affected in a car accident.
