San Jose Car Accident Lawyers Discuss What To Do After An Accident
Most drivers aren’t sure what to do if they are involved in an automobile accident. For most people, the answer tends to vary because everyone reacts differently in times of despair and uncertainty. The following are the steps that a San Jose personal injury attorney will suggest you follow after a car accident.
Remain at the scene
You should never leave the scene of an accident until it becomes clear and appropriate to do so, especially when people have sustained injuries.
Check the state of those involved and call the police
It is important that you check on all the drivers and passengers involved in the accident to see if they are okay and call the appropriate emergency authorities if someone is badly hurt. You should also call the police to the scene to prepare an accident report.
Exchange information
It is imperative that you do your best to get the names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license and license plate information of those involved. Also ask for insurance information like insurance provider and policy number. It’s best to request the other driver’s insurance card and take a photo of it if you can.
Talk to those around
San Jose personal injury lawyers recommend talking to any witnesses who may be able to provide a clear picture of what actually took place. Write down their phone numbers, names, and addresses in case you need to contact them again in future. It may be beneficial to ask a witness or another bystander to take pictures of the scene for you with your phone while you exchange information with the parties involved in the accident. Furthermore, bring the witnesses to the attention of any officers that respond to the scene.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You should contact your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, and if you are going to retain the services of an attorney, refrain from making any detailed statements to any insurance representatives until your attorney can be present for the statement. If you are contacted by a representative of the responsible driver’s insurance company, politely request all appropriate claim information, including the claim number, the adjustor handling the claim, phone numbers and fax numbers, and provide that information to your representative.
Keep proper medical records
You should take notes and keep proper records, especially for any type of payment or receipts thereof, for any doctors, chiropractors, physical therapists, or other certified medical professionals who may have played a role in your treatment due to the injuries you sustained as a result of the accident. These records will serve as evidence when claiming for compensation.
Take photos
If possible, take photos of any evidence at the scene such as skid marks, debris strewn about the roadway, and any and all damage to the vehicles. This will serve as crucial evidence that you can present to your insurance firm when seeking reimbursement for damages. If you do not have a camera phone, keep a disposable camera in your glovebox for such occasions.
Contact Our San Jose Personal Injury Attorneys for Legal Representation
The fact of the matter is that after an accident, you should get in touch with personal injury attorneys for representation. The Law Office of Farling, Hecht & Davis, LLP is a reputable and professional a San Jose law firm that can represent your auto accident case and get you the compensation you deserve. Our team will be able to provide you with the right kind of legal assistance that will help get your life back to normal again. Contact us today at (408) 295-6100 or via our online contact form to set up a consultation.