Thursday, July 12, 2007

Post Car Accident Tips

Not everybody who has driven a car has been involved in a car accident. Regardless if you are the one who caused the accident or not, it would benefit you to know what to do in case of a car accident.

In an accident, somebody is usually at fault. However, an individual needs to preserve his or her evidence in order to pursue personal injury claims later on. In preserving evidence and collecting information, regardless of who is at fault, an individual must do the following immediately after an accident:

1. Make sure that you or your car is not prone to secondary accidents on the road. If you are in the middle of the road, try moving your car to the side. If your car is not operating anymore, leave your car and go to the shoulder of the road;
2. Check yourself for injuries including the other party. Make sure that both of you are not in critical need of medical attention;
3. Exchange personal information to include: names, contact information, car registrations and insurance information.
4. Look for witnesses and get contact information as well as statement of the incident;
5. Call 911 for medical attention if necessary and wait for police officers to get a report of the incident;
6. Last, but not the least important, call a car accident attorney who will advice you on legal matters concerning your future claims.

The above information will save you a lot of time later on in case you end up litigating your personal injury claims. Your lawyer will thank you as well for doing a great job at protecting and preserving your personal injury claims.