Posted on Monday, September 26th, 2016 at 4:57 am
Being in a traffic accident is a traumatic event. In a split second your life can be turned upside down by a distracted, drowsy, drunk, or reckless driver. It may be difficult to think straight after a traffic accident. You are dealing with physical pain from injuries as well as emotional stress. You may be worried about bills too. A Sacramento personal injury attorney can help you sort through the legal issues so that you can focus on your recovery. Contact the Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 to speak with an attorney today.
If you have already been injured in an accident, it may be too late to take some of the steps below. However, it is good to know the steps to take after a traffic accident in case it should happen again or happen to a family member or friend.
Stop and Remain at the Accident Scene
It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident (hit and run). If your vehicle is drivable, move your vehicle to a safe location on the side of the road to avoid another collision.
Call 911
Call for emergency assistance. If medical assistance is needed, inform the operator. Be as clear as possible when reporting the situation and follow the operator’s instructions.
Give Aid If Possible
If someone is injured, offer aid. However, do not move an injured person unless the situation is dangerous because you could cause more injury by moving someone.
Get Information
Ask the other driver for his or her name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information. Be prepared to provide the same information for yourself. In addition, if there are any eyewitnesses, ask them for their names and contact information.
Take Photographs
If you are able to safely photograph the accident scene, do so. Even if you take pictures from your vehicle, that could be helpful for your attorney as he investigates the accident to prepare your accident claim. Never put yourself in danger to take photographs of the accident scene.
Write Down Everything You Remember
As you wait for the police to arrive at the accident scene, begin making notes about the accident. Include everything you can remember from before, during, and after the accident. Include detailed descriptions of the time, place, weather conditions, and road conditions. The smallest detail could be the exact detail your attorney needs for your accident claim. If you can, draw a simple diagram of the accident scene. This can help you later when you need to recall details of the accident.
Avoid Saying You Are Sorry
It may be natural to say “I’m sorry” if you are in a traffic accident. You may only mean that you are sorry the accident occurred, but your statement could be construed as an admission of guilt.
Contact Our Office To Hire A Car Accident Attorney
If you have been hurt in a traffic accident, you may have several questions. Our Sacramento car accident attorneys offer free case evaluations and free consultations so you can get answers to your questions. Contact the Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by chatting with a representative on our website.
