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Home > Accident Attorney > CRITICAL STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : December 22, 2021
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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.

Categories: Accident Attorney, Accident Injury, Attorney At Law, California, Car Accident

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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

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Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.