What to do if you are in an Automobile Accident

An automobile accident can be a life changer or a real pain in the neck for a couple of years depending on the collision.  If you are not taken from the scene by an ambulance here are some suggestions.  Call 911 and let them know an accident has happened and be ready to give your location and some basic information about the severity of the accident.  Approach the other driver and be civil as it is an unfortunate situation for everyone.  An appropriate remark would be something to the effect that this is an unfortunate event and the insurance companies will sort things out.   If you admit to the other driver it is your fault, your statement will be held against you even if it turns out you are not at fault.  Ask for their name, address and insurance information.  Look around and see if there are any witnesses to the accident.  Sometimes the other driver blames you when it is their fault for a variety of reasons, and a witness is vital to refuting their misrepresentations.  Make sure you get the cell phone and address of any witnesses.  Ask them what they saw and make a brief note.  Next, get your cell phone out and start taking pictures of your vehicle and their vehicle and the location of the collision.   Finally, once law enforcement arrives on the scene, try to talk to them first and give your recollection of how the accident occurred.  My general observation is that the first person to the officer to tell their story usually has their story in the report as to what happened.  Law enforcement should do the above, but they are often managing several calls at a time and the reports can be lacking in necessary information that causes your claim to take longer to resolve.  If you can, gather the above information yourself and you will minimize the chance of a report that compromises your rights.  Finally, go to an urgent care or ER and have a doctor give you an exam the same day.  It is very common that the adrenalin rush due to the event will mask pain and injury, and about two days later you will feel the effects of the accident.  If you do not see a doctor the same day as the accident, the insurance company will hold it against you and assert you must not be hurt since you did not see a doctor after the accident.  Within a few days, call an automobile accident attorney and ask for a free consultation on your case.  Initial consultations are free at Wagner Law Firm.