So you were driving along minding your own business when suddenly without warning, you’re involved in a traffic collision. You’re probably stunned, shook up and possibly injured. But before your mind jumps to finger-pointing and how you’re going to find the best lawyer to fight your case there are some steps you need to take to ensure that you’re OK and that your case is as strong as it can possibly be. Keep reading this article if you want to learn more about this topic, and make sure to visit this link to learn even more: https://www.preszlerlaw.com/locations/toronto-on/car-accident-lawyer/.
Read on for the best course of action after a car accident.
Pullover
Failing to stop at the scene of an accident could land you in a huge amount of trouble and that’s because it’s a legal requirement to do so. If your car is still moving after the accident, put on your hazard lights and move the vehicle over into a place that isn’t obstructing the flow of traffic. Turn off the engine.
Check you’re ok!
It sounds obvious, but you might not notice if you have any injuries straight away. Especially cuts, bruises or potentially something more serious. Check on your passengers as well. If anyone needs medical assistance, get it by dialing 911 or asking someone to do it for you.
Exit the vehicle
If everyone is able to, leave the vehicle calmly and retreat to the sidewalk or behind the barrier. The last thing you want is for you and your car to be involved in another accident whilst you’re still sat inside it. Use your emergency car kit.
Call the police
In most states, the police are required by law to attend any kind of traffic collision, regardless of its severity. Similarly, it’s also illegal not to inform the police of a car accident. The police officers who attend the scene will take statements and fill in accident forms that will serve as evidence and also documentation that your insurance company will request.
Be honest
If you didn’t really see what happened, or you’re not sure, be honest and tell the officer. Don’t speculate or assume you knew what happened. Give an honest account of the events that took place.
Get details.
Start with photographs of the damage to your vehicle, and it’s also worth taking photographs of any injuries that have been sustained. Then take information from the other people involved in the case. Name, address, email, phone number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses around who saw what happened, take their names and details too.
Limit your conversation with the other party
It’s easy to start firing accusations and talking about blame. Be polite, and don’t apologize, even if it seems natural to do so. You could be admitting liability when it wasn’t your fault! Only talk about the accident in detail to the police, your lawyer or your insurance company.
Get in touch with your legal representative
Your attorney will be able to protect your rights and ensure that any legal proceedings are carried out correctly. They will also fight your case and with any luck be able to get you a settlement.
