An accident is not a common event. When it happens, people panic and do not know what to do. Here is a guideline of what to do:
(1) Stay calm. Take a deep breath and collect yourself. Be civil. Do not argue with the other driver.
(2) Exchange pertinent information. This includes names, addresses, telephone numbers, driver’s license number, and insurance information. If the other driver refuses to provide you with this information, contact law enforcement.
(3) If possible, take pictures of the other vehicle. Use the camera in your phone to take pictures of the other car.
(4) If injured, call law enforcement. This step is not necessary. But, it can be helpful unless you are the party at fault.
(5) If injured, get checked out. Depending on your injuries, you may need to visit the emergency room or urgent care. Thereafter, you may need treatment with a medical doctor or chiropractor.
Remember that getting checked out is NOT the same as getting treated and medication will not heal your injuries. Without treatment, your injuries will develop scar tissue. Do NOT delay treatment – delaying will hurt you physically and hurt your case.
(6) Never discuss the accident with the adverse insurance company. Do not discuss the accident with the insurance company representing the other side without an attorney. Never give a statement.
(7) Never sign authorization forms. Insurance companies pressure injured parties into signing authorizations, allowing them open access to “all” of the injured party’s records. Never sign authorization forms.
(8) Call a personal injury attorney. The best way to protect yourself is to contact an experienced injury attorney. Remember that injury attorneys take cases on a contingency, and if there is no settlement, then the attorney does not charge a fee.
For more information, please call the Mason Law Firm: (661) 476-5678 or visit the website: www.mrscvlaw.com.