If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident of any kind, there are several steps you need to take to protect your rights and yourself, in case you decide to make a claim against the other party responsible for your injuries. With the help of an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney, you may be able to recover damages, including medical bills and pain and suffering.
Seek Medical Attention
If you were injured in a car accident, you will need to seek medical attention immediately. Receiving treatment for any current injuries should be your top concern. Even if you have no visible injuries and feel fine, or you think your injuries are minor and will heal on their own, you should still seek medical attention. While medical treatment may not be as pressing an issue when you do not feel hurt, some injuries take time to develop. Our bodies’ fight-or-flight response can block the pain from injuries that developed during a shocking event, like a car accident, for days, weeks, or even longer.
Call the Police
Call the police immediately following any motor vehicle accident, no matter how minor. Some insurance policies even require a police report.
Document the Accident Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, you can take steps to document the scene of the accident yourself. If you can safely do so, take pictures of the accident scene, including the positioning of the cars, the damage to all vehicles involved, the weather conditions, the conditions of the road, the signage present, the license plates of cars involved, any injuries you have, and anything else that seems to relate to the accident.
Most people have access to camera phones, but it is recommended that you keep a disposable camera in your glove box, in case your phone isn’t working, is damaged in the accident, or you do not have it with you.
Exchange Information with the Other Parties and Witnesses
Exchange insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. Obtain the name, contact information, license plate number, insurance company and policy number for the other drivers. If witnesses are present, you may want to obtain their information as well. Do not discuss the accident with any other the parties, bystanders, or witnesses. Do not apologize, make accusations or discuss fault.
Consult with an Experienced Southern California Car Accident Lawyer Who Will Help You
Only an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney can advise you regarding your rights following an accident, so it is very important that you seek legal advice as soon as you can. For more information and to schedule a free consultation with a Southern California car accident lawyer, call the Law Offices of Vahdat & Aboudi today at 1-800-BUT-4-LAW.