Calling an auto accident lawyer should be on your To Do list after a car collision. In fact, a skillful and experienced attorney can be as much of a lifesaver as a seat belt or airbag. Of course, when your car collides with another vehicle, it is normal to feel panicked, frightened and confused. However, if at all possible, remember to say as little as possible.
Here are the steps you should take:
1. Pull over if possible. If it is not feasible, stay in the car with seatbelt fastened.
2. Determine if there are injuries and, if possible, call 911.
3. Get information from the other vehicle driver, witnesses and passengers. Jot down the time and place where you are, license plate numbers, driver’s license numbers, names, addresses, phone number and insurance information. If possible, get the Vehicle Identification Number of the other car. However, do not admit to any fault, even if you were wrong. It could back you into a legal corner.
4. File an accident report with the police and talk to them when they arrive. Stick to facts – leave your opinion and analysis out of it. An off-hand comment could make you held liable to an incorrect degree.
5. Take photos of the damage to both vehicles if possible. This will make it easier for the insurance company to determine what happened.
6. Report the crash to your insurance company in a timely manner. Be truthful with your representative, because misrepresenting what happened could result in your being denied coverage or cancelled. If you want to talk to an attorney before you call your insurer, do so.
7. Call an attorney if you have any injuries, even minor ones. This offers protection from the other driver’s insurance company and any legal actions the driver may take. Most offer free phone consultations and will not charge you any more for their services unless you win a case against another driver.
Under no circumstances should you talk to the other driver’s insurance company or sign a waiver, release or settlement until you have talked with an attorney. If your injuries prove to be worse that they first appear, you – not the insurer – will have to pay for treatment and the far-reaching financial implications of disability.
It pays to have the name of a car accident law firm or two in your car, along with an emergency kit to help you take the above steps. It is always a good idea to be prepared for an accident.
Want to learn more about a car accident law firm?
Get more information: http://www.bressmanlaw.com
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