Everyone knows about the importance of exchanging contact information with the other driver after a car accident. But what exactly does that mean? And what information should you ask for?
Determining who was responsible after a car accident in California is a complex process, especially when multiple parties are involved. However, it is generally based on negligence. In other words, the driver who caused you harm will typically be held responsible for any injuries you suffered, as well as the resulting financial compensation.
The team of experienced car accident attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers have outlined 7 key steps you must take after a car accident in order to protect your legal rights and obtain maximum compensation for your injuries.
Please read below to understand what information to ask for and a few general guidelines which will greatly strengthen your claim.
- Stay Where You Are. Neither you nor the other driver should ever leave the scene of an accident until police arrive. Regardless of whether you or the other driver was responsible, you must stay present until help arrives.
- Call 911. Responding officers will complete an official report of the car accident. They will ask to speak with you. You must describe your injuries, no matter how minor they seem. It is very important to request the traffic accident information card with the accident report number before leaving the scene.
- Exchange Contact Information: Make sure to exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, and drivers’ license information with everyone involved in the accident. It is also a good idea to talk to witnesses. If they agree to help, you should request the same information from them, too.
- Document What Happened. It is strongly recommended to write down what you remember, and please include times, locations, and any relevant road or weather conditions. Another recommendation is to take photographs and video of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and any injuries that you suffered.
- Seek Medical Attention. Another important step to take after a car accident is to visit a doctor. Your health must be your first priority, and if you don’t seek immediate medical attention, the other party’s insurance company will argue that you weren’t hurt at all. A medical record is a critical document that will help strengthen your opportunity for the recovery of financial compensation.
- Don’t Speak About The Accident. It’s important to speak with the other driver regarding contact information, but DO NOT discuss the accident. DO NOT apologize or even suggest who may be at fault. DO NOT speak about the car accident at all.
- Consult A Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney. Car accidents involve complex issues, insurance policies, and accident investigations that are best handled by a skilled car accident lawyer. We recommend speaking with an attorney even before reporting the accident to your own insurance provider.
West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here To Help
If you have sustained injuries in the city of Los Angeles or surrounding areas as a result of an accident, a personal injury attorney at our firm can help you recover financial compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, loss of consortium, emotional distress and pain and suffering. We have offices in Glendale, Bakersfield, Irvine, Beverly Hills, Long Beach, Riverside, Pasadena, San Bernardino, Woodland Hills, and Solana Beach. Our offices specialize in:
Call West Coast Trial Lawyers today at (213) 927-3700 or email [email protected] to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.
