A car accident can leave victims in shock, devastated, and unsure of what to do next. In a world where people are rushing from one place to another, car accidents can happen at any moment. Whether a small fender bender or a serious head-on collision, accidents can cause the victims substantial physical, mental, emotional, and financial damages. Here in this article, we have answered the top questions victims may have when a car accident arises unexpectedly and want to know how to handle the situation in the best way possible.
What are the very first things I should do after a car collision?
There are a few steps you can take right after a car accident. The first, is to call an ambulance if anyone may be injured. Second, move your vehicle out of the way of other cars and call law enforcement to assist. Then, while waiting you can gather evidence at the scene, and exchange information with the other driver. This information will likely be important later, and your car accident lawyer may ask for it, if you choose to file a personal injury claim.
What form of evidence is helpful to gather at the scene of the accident?
It is important to exchange information with the other driver before permitting him or her to leave the scene. Some drivers may become very nervous, especially if they do not have insurance or identification. Be wary, and call police if it looks like the driver wants to flee. A full list of the evidence to gather includes:
- Name of the driver(s)
- Contact information (cell, home, address)
- License plate number
- Car year, make, model & color
- Vehicle registration number
- Driver’s license number
- Pictures of the scene
- Witness information
What pictures should I take of the accident?
If you can, take photographs of the vehicles and where they were placed after the crash in Fredericksburg VA. However, if it impedes the safety of you and others to leave the cars as they are, you can skip this step. Be sure to take photos of the vehicle damages, any visible injuries, road conditions, weather inclements and debri or glass shattered on the ground. Physical wounds can heal quickly, so it is best to take a photograph when the wound is at its worst. Remember that some injuries may not show until hours or even days later. Take photographs of these injuries as they develop, along with the date and time.
Why is a police report so important?
A police report is an official document that lists the details surrounding the car accident. Police reports overall usually include the officer’s own perspective and potential causes of the accident. An officer may also take a statement from each driver about what happened. You have to call the police if any of these three components occurred:
- Property damage
- Bodily injury
- Fatality
Should I admit fault for the accident?
Even if you believe you caused the accident, you may not be aware of all the circumstances that led to the collision. Never admit fault, even if the other driver is blaming you and trying to make you feel guilty. It is better to remain quiet rather than say something that could be misconstrued and used against you.
Contact MartinWren, P.C.
If you were injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact MartinWren, P.C. today to arrange a free consultation with a Fredericksburg VA car accident lawyer.
Call 434-817-3100 or complete a Case Evaluation form
