Most people will go through at least one car accident in their lifetime, and even minor events can be unnerving. While victims are usually shaken up afterward, remembering the below steps will help them save a great deal of hassle and anxiety.
Seek Medical Treatment Right Away
Call paramedics for those who are injured and don’t move anyone unless it’s necessary to prevent further injury. While getting medical help may seem like an obvious step, many people who go through auto accidents do not immediately feel pain, as the adrenaline rush masks these symptoms. If a victim leaves the scene but feels pain later, they should call their doctor or go to the nearest ER. When victims are seen by a doctor, they gain the medical proof an Accident Lawyer in Greenbelt needs to build a case.
Call the Authorities
Even if an auto accident is minor, the police should be called. A police report documents the event’s facts and, if a case arises, will serve as important evidence. Police reports contain info on the date, place, and time of the event, the conditions when it happened, involved drivers’ insurance information, reported injuries, vehicle damage, and fault findings.
Document the Event
If it’s possible, write down information at the accident scene. List injuries and symptoms as well as a description of how the incident happened, and don’t forget statements made by other drivers. As useful as police reports are, they’re not infallible, and it’s good to correct potential errors as soon as possible. This documentation is useful in case the other party tries to change his or her story later.
Stay On the Scene
Unless a victim is being taken to the hospital, they should stay on-scene until the police and other parties have left. By staying put, victims can prevent other parties from making statements they have no chance to respond to.
Being in an auto accident is a very frightening experience for anyone but, by using these tips, victims can ensure their medical needs are addressed, and their legal rights are protected. For information or assistance from an Accident Lawyer in Greenbelt, call the Jaklitsch Law Group today.