Thinking clearly can be difficult after being involved in a car accident. The entire ordeal is stressful, even if the accident isn’t all that severe. Still, it’s always best to know what to do in the aftermath to be sure you keep yourself protected and create the best case for getting the compensation you deserve. Continue reading to learn what to do after a car accident, and discover how a Paterson car accident lawyer can help.
1. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
Car accidents are dangerous, and your first concern should always be safety. Check yourself first, and if you’re able to move, check the other people in your car if you have any. Then, go around and make sure no one else involved in the accident needs medical attention. If anyone is injured, call an ambulance immediately. Remember, nothing takes priority over people’s safety.
2. Notify the Police
Every car accident that has injuries and/or property damage warrants a police response. They need to investigate the scene and gather all the necessary evidence for a police report. This report will come in handy later on when you have to make your case to an insurance company in an effort to get the compensation you’re owed. Official police evidence isn’t going to be contradicted by insurance company lawyers who weren’t there on the scene.
3. Collect Evidence Yourself
In addition to the police report, it’s always helpful to have a backup plan. Whether something happens to the police report or the report is vague, you’ll need to have some evidence of your own to back up your claims. That’s why it’s essential that you collect evidence yourself if you can. This includes taking photographs of the accident from which the entire scene can be analyzed clearly. Additionally, you’ll want to get photos of any apparent damage to your vehicle as well as any skid marks left on the road from the accident. It’s generally best to take them before the cars are moved off the road unless doing so presents a safety issue.
4. Get Information From the Other Driver
Getting insurance information from the other driver is a routine step in every accident. This is fairly standard and shouldn’t be a problem in most cases. All you need is their carrier, their agent’s name, and their agent’s phone number. You’ll also need their personal information such as their name and license plate number. Remember, not to apologize or even discuss who’s responsible for the accident. Anything you say that can be construed as an admission of guilt.
5. Call a Paterson, New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer
Your best bet after an accident is to call an experienced Paterson, New Jersey car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Ideally, you’ll want to have a lawyer in your corner before you even talk to an insurer. For the best chance at getting the compensation you’re owed, get in touch with Peter N. Davis & Associates. We’ve been fighting big insurance companies for over two decades now and have won over $150 million in settlements for clients. Contact us today for a free consultation!