In the aftermath of a car accident, you will likely be confused, disoriented, and potentially injured. It is important that you know the basic steps you should take following a car accident in order to protect yourself and your legal rights. Not acting appropriately after a crash could leave you vulnerable to additional injuries or potentially diminish your later personal injury claim. Our New Jersey personal injury lawyers offer a look at the following five steps you should take after a car accident:
Move your vehicle out of the roadway: If your vehicle remains in the roadway after a crash, you should consider moving your vehicle to the nearest soft shoulder or other safe place close by, if possible. Remaining in the roadway leaves you vulnerable to injury should another car crash into your vehicle.
Call the police: You should report the car accident immediately to the appropriate authorities. A police officer will be dispatched to the scene and will gather vital information in order to complete an accident report. Be sure to provide the officer with as much information as possible concerning the accident to aid in the accuracy of the report.
Seek medical attention: Do not delay obtaining medical treatment if you have been involved in a serious car accident. Injuries sustained in a crash can be serious, so it is important that you seek medical attention so as to prevent worsening injuries.
Gather witness information: If possible, you should gather the names, addresses, and phone numbers of witnesses to the crash. Witnesses could be critical to your later personal injury case. Take pictures of the scene of the accident and the damage to your vehicle as well.
Call a personal injury lawyer: If you believe your accident was caused by a negligent driver, contact a car accident lawyer right away. Your car accident lawyer will take swift action to investigate the crash and protect your legal rights.
A car accident is a traumatic event for anyone, but by being prepared and keeping your cool, you can emerge from the accident without additional injuries or legal complications.