When you’ve been involved in a car accident, it can be a stressful and emotional time. It is important, however, to take the right steps after an accident in order to help you with any potential claim you may have in the future.
Stay Safe
It is important never to drive away from the scene of a car accident. If possible, pull your car over to the side of the road and try to stay out of traffic. Check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. Call an ambulance if necessary.
Call 911
While it is important to have an ambulance on the scene to handle any injuries, it is also important to make sure that the police are present. A police officer will make an accident report, which can become crucial evidence in your case. The accident report will have information about what happened and who was present. Get the report number and the name of the officer preparing the report.
Gather Information
Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the driver of the other vehicle. Get the names and contact information of any possible eyewitnesses to the accident. They may be able to provide valuable information about how the accident took place.
Take Pictures
Use your cellphone to take as many pictures as you can. Take pictures of the damage to the vehicles and the surrounding scene. It is also important to take pictures of any hazards in the roadway or things like skid marks on the road, which could help tell the story of what happened. If possible, try to get pictures of any injuries as well.
Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel that you have not been injured, it is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. Sometimes the adrenaline of the accident can mask any pain or symptoms from an injury. It is important to let a medical professional determine the extent of any injuries.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you should contact an experienced car accident attorney. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have been helping New York car accident victims for over 50 years. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.