HAVE YOU BEEN INJURED?

 

Unfortunately, accidents can happen to anyone and the actions which you take following the accident can be important in protecting your legal rights.

AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS:

Following an automobile accident, if it is possible, you should stay at the scene until the police are notified and report to investigate the accident. If there are injuries, you should consider calling an ambulance. It is always a good idea to keep safety items in your trunk (flares, flashlights, etc.) as these items are useful at an accident scene. Although it is preferable to leave the vehicles where they come to rest after the collision until the arriving of law enforcement officers, on occasions your safety or the safety of others may require movement of the vehicles. In such an event, you should document the position of the vehicles as promptly as possible.

If there are injuries and the cars cannot be moved, the police should be notified of this fact so they may respond as quickly as possible to clear the scene. Police should also be called for minor accidents so that a formal report can be taken and filed. You should ask the officer how you can obtain a copy of this report.

Once any injuries are attended to, it is very important that you exchange information with the other involved drivers. You should get their names, addresses, telephone numbers, and driver's license and license tag numbers. It is also important to get the name of their insurance companies and the policy numbers. You should also get the names, addresses, telephone numbers and license plate numbers of all witnesses and of the investigating officer.

It is important to remember that anything that you may say at the accident scene may be later used by the insurance company. While you should be truthful in what you report to the officer, you need not go into detail in explaining the accident. Never allow the at-fault party to leave until the police arrive. If this happens, the insurance company may try to avoid responsibility and deny your claim.

If you are injured, you should consult your personal physician and follow his or her advice. If they are not available and you need immediate attention, you may choose to be seen at an emergency medical care facility. You should be certain to document all injuries that you have sustained.

You will also need to notify your automobile insurance agent of the accident as soon as possible as failure to report a claim can prejudice your rights. Again, be truthful in what you report but keep in mind that there may be differing views on the actual cause of the accident. Certainly you should not give a statement to any insurance investigator or agent.

Once the immediate matters are taken care of, you may wish to consult an attorney for assistance.

OTHER ACCIDENTS:

Most of the above information also applies to other types of accidents (falls, dog bites, etc.) The most important thing to do is to gather as much information as possible as soon after the accident as possible. Taking the time to gather information from involved individuals and witnesses can be very helpful in case of litigation.

Of course, any injuries should always be attended to promptly.

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