No one ever plans on being in a car accident. In fact, we try our best to avoid them at all costs. No matter how careful you are or what precautions you take, you can still be involved in a wreck. It happens quickly and can be disorienting, but just because you have been blindsided, does not mean you need to be unprepared. Here are a few things to make note of if you are ever in an auto accident.
FILE A POLICE RECORD
After a car accident occurs, it is important that you call the police afterwards. The police will file a report, which will include vital information such as time of day, road, conditions, etc. You might be in shock when the accident actually happens, thus making it harder to remember little details later on. But with a police report, they’ll write everything down. And they can serve as an unbiased, third party.
TAKE EVIDENCE FROM THE SCENE AND OF ANY DAMAGES
It is important to have evidence to back up your claims during a collision. The easiest way to mark damages from a scene is to take pictures. Luckily, most people have smart phones or tablets with which to take pictures. If not, it might be helpful to keep a disposable camera in your car. Take pictures of both the car, to show any physical damage, and the scene, to give insight into what happened.
TAKE DOWN WITNESS STATEMENTS
Not all accidents will have witnesses, but if yours does, this can work in your benefit. Witnesses can be great assets during a difficult situation. They can give their testimonies which can help solidify your claim, especially if you are not at fault. In some cases, you can settle outside of court. Therefore, after a wreck, look around to see if there is anyone who might have seen what happened. Ask their name and number and save it. If there are no eyewitnesses, check for security or traffic cameras.
INFORMATION FROM THE DOCTOR
After an auto accident, it is imperative that you get examined by a doctor. You may not initially feel any pain, but that may be because you are in shock. It is important to have a professional look after you. Keep the doctor’s records, receipts, and results. Depending on the damage, your San Antonio attorney can assess how much compensation you should be awarded.
GET AN ASSESSMENT FROM A QUALIFIED MECHANIC
Make sure to take your car into a mechanic that you know and trust. Have them evaluate the damages and give you a full quote on how much it will cost to fix everything. Much like the doctor’s reports, your attorney can use the mechanic’s estimate to factor in how much you are owed.
GET AN ATTORNEY
Although it might be tempting to deal with everything yourself, consider hiring an auto accident attorney. They have experience and knowledge that will not be readily available to you. They can also help make sure that you are given what is owed to you.
No one wants to be in a car accident. But being prepared can give you an advantage and allow you to drive easier. If you have been in a collision, contact our San Antonio auto accident lawyers today!