Getting into an accident is a scary, chaotic experience. It’s especially nerve-wracking if you’re not sure about your legal rights. Knowing the legal rights you’re entitled to can save you from financial woe or worse. But the law is complex, and what you might think is true in one state may turn out to be something else in another. Here are legal tips for dealing with a car accident if you get in a fender-bender or something more serious.
1. Don’t Leave The Scene
Leaving the scene of an accident may seem like the right thing to do if you’re in shock or worried about your insurance rates, but it is never advisable. Leaving the scene creates a huge legal problem and can make it impossible for you to get fair compensation for your injuries. Leaving the scene can also result in a hit-and-run charge, adding even more penalties to your situation. If you feel like you can’t stay at the scene of an accident, call 911 and wait for help.
2. Check For Injuries Sustained In The Accident
After any automobile accident, you should always check yourself for injuries. Depending on the severity of the accident and your specific injuries, you may be able to file a claim for compensation from one or more insurance companies. But remember that if an insurance company discovers that you had injuries but didn’t report them, your claim will likely be denied. So it’s essential to report all of your potential injuries immediately after an accident.
3. Always call 911
If you are in an accident and are hurt, there are certain steps you should avoid taking. For one, never drive away from the accident scene until you’ve been instructed to do so. If your vehicle can’t be moved, don’t leave it sitting on the side of the road or in a ditch. You should also never try to drive away with any injuries or if you feel that any substances impair you. And don’t give insurance companies false information about your injuries while trying to reach you. Calling 911 to report the accident is always a smart move.
4. Get To Safety And Wait For Help
Getting out of an accident, no matter how minor, is extremely important. If you can get somewhere safe and remain there until help arrives, you will make a hero out of yourself for helping others stay safe after an accident. You could also throw money away if the accident were not your fault. First aid kits and cell phones are also smart ideas if you’ve been in an accident.
5. Exchange Information
After any car accident, taking pictures of the damage to your and other vehicles is always a good idea. But be sure that you’ve exchanged identifying information with other drivers. That way, if there are any problems or lingering insurance questions, you’ll have a record of who was at fault for the accident.
6. Contact Your Lawyer
It may be wise to consult a car accident lawyer in Lakeland, FL, especially if you get injured in your wreck by the other driver. You will need to figure out how you will cover your medical costs as well. Reach out to a lawyer that specializes in these cases so they can help you.
7. Document The Accident
You should document the accident using a camera if possible. You should write it down immediately if anything goes wrong, such as braking issues or excessive speed. The date and time of the accident are also important to document while they’re fresh in your mind. Write down everything that happened before, during and after the accident, including the weather conditions, what happened to cause the accident and how you were injured.
8. Begin Claim Process
In the unfortunate event that you get into a car accident, starting the claim process as soon as possible is important. Start by taking your personal injuries and car insurance records to a law office or anywhere you can be seen. The sooner you file a claim, the sooner you will know how much money is owed to you after an accident and whether any issues with your insurance company may affect your claim. A lawyer will assist you at the beginning of the process while you recover.
9. Know Your Liability Coverage
Before calling your auto insurance company, you need to know exactly how much insurance you have. If you have no health insurance and only liability insurance, you may need to consult a lawyer. But if you have coverage for more than a liability, they can advise you on the claim process.
Conclusion
Car accidents can be a very frightening experience. This is especially true if you’re unsure about your legal rights regarding insurance, injuries, and more. But by knowing what to do right after an accident and acquiring the right legal advice, you can make sure that you’re compensated for any injuries or damages that result from an accident. Ensure that you know your legal rights to enable you to navigate your accident claim.
