What To Do If You Get Into an Automobile Accident

Every 14 seconds, someone is injured in a car accident.  Hopefully you will never be part of one, and if you are, hopefully it is not life threatening.  However, it is important to know what to do.

Note: This advice applies to accidents when you are not seriously injured. If you are, please call 911 immediately.

Stay Calm – It’s easy to lose your cool, but rather then getting upset about being in an accident, try to keep your wits about yourself.  If your car is undrivable, remember to turn on your hazard lights, exit your vehicle when it is safe to do so to avoid causing more injury.  If your car is drivable, move it to the side of the road.

Check for In juries – Ask everyone in your car if they are okay.  Afterwards, check on the driver and passengers of the other vehicle.  Call 911 for an ambulance if necessary.

Call the Police – Always call the police, even if the other suggests that you don’t because by law you may be required to call the police, a police report can help establish liability, and help protect you from fraud.  In addition, the police presence can help keep everyone calm.  remember to get the policeman’s name and badge number.

Exchange Contact Information With The Other Driver – this should include their name, address, e-mail, phone number, driver’s license number, insurance company, and policy number.

Take Down Some Notes – You should note the time, location, description of the vehicles, and description of the individuals should you ever need to go to court.

Take Photos – With technology being what it is, take lots of photos to document the accident and vehicle damage.  This will help you make your case with the claims adjuster.  Take both closeup and far away photographs.

Get Information From Witnesses – It’s also helpful to get contact information for witnesses in case you need their testimony later.

Call Your Insurance Company – It’s necessary to contact your insurance company and report the accident to them.  Regardless of fault, it’s important to get your insurer on your side.

 

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Carl David Ceder is a very aggressive attorney who specializes in criminal defense and personal injury law. Carl Ceder also has strong experience with Driving While Intoxicated cases. The Law Offices of Carl David Ceder can practice law in any county located in Texas including Dallas County, Denton County, Collin County, Rockwall County, and Tarrant County. Carl David Ceder is a 5th generation resident of Austin and practices in Travis County, Williamson County, and Hays County. Mr. Ceder has trial experience with misdemeanors and felonies, and enjoys helping people who are accused of a crime through the justice system.