You are on your way to work, maybe to the store or simply a night out when suddenly you are in a car accident. Don't panic. There are several things you must do to protect yourself.
First, call the police. If you are injured seriously, call 911. Even if you are not seriously injured call the police. The police will conduct an investigation. They will question the drivers involved and get their information, including insurance and license information. Often they will even draw a sketch of the scene. The police will not assign blame for the accident, that is not their job. Do not let the other driver talk you out of it. Call the police and wait for their arrival.
In the meantime, take photos of both your car and any other car involved. Take more than one and take it from various angles. If you have injuries, take pictures of those as well. It is important to gather as much information as possible.
Get the other driver's information. Get their driver's license and insurance information. State law requires drivers to carry this information in their car. Don't settle for what they say, ask to see their insurance card. Take a photo of it as well as their license.
Get medical treatment if you are injured. Many times auto accident victims have delayed onset of pain from their accident. If you feel pain go to a hospital or see your doctor.
Finally, you might want to consult with an experienced lawyer. There are hundreds of car accidents every day that result in injury. Not every driver is insured and sometimes injuries can be serious. Insurance companies care about their bottom line, not you. Scarpello & LaTour will make sure you receive the money you need to cover medical bills, repairs and the pain you have suffered. If you have been injured in a car accident or know somebody who has, call Scarpello & LaTour and speak with one of our attorneys immediately about your options.