what to do if you've been in a car accident

If you have been involved in an accident, you may want to consider the following:

Seek immediate medical attention: If you have suffered any injuries or have immediate pain, it is essential that you seek the proper medical attention you need. Often times following an accident, the shock and excitement may distract you from the physical pain you may be feeling. It is important to visit a hospital emergency room or urgent care if you feel any immediate pain. If pain increases over the next few days, it is important to visit with your primary care physician who can better diagnose your injuries
Obtain Information: It is important to get the other driver’s accurate information following your car accidents. The drivers name, address, date of birth, telephone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance information (policy number), insurance company name, phone number (on policy), type of vehicle (year, color, model), the names and contact numbers for any passengers that were in the vehicle, witnesses that saw the accident, the police officer’s name and/or emergency response team that responded to the accident scene,
Take Notes: After the accident, it is helpful to document the entire event so that you can have a place to go if you need to remember the course of events. Typically, you should note what you were doing before the accident, where you were going, the time of day, any road conditions, weather conditions etc…
Do Not Take Blame: There is no sense in volunteering any information that you were at fault for the accident. This may not be the case at all. While you may feel that it was your fault, you may learn later that you were not the cause of the accident. It is important to speak with a car accident attorney before making any statements that could hurt your case. You must cooperate with the responding officer(s) honestly and fairly by providing them with an accurate description, to the best of your ability of the accident.
Speak with an Attorney: After your accident, it is important to speak with an experience car accident attorney about your claim. An attorney will be able to provide you with the experience needed to deal with the insurance companies, adjusters and other party’s attorney. By having the proper legal representation you are less likely to be taken advantage of by the insurance companies who will try and pay you as little as possible for your injuries. You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages and punitive damages.
Report the Accident to the DMV: The law may require you to report your accident regardless of fault to the Department of Motor Vehicles. California Vehicle Code 1806 outlines the requirements for reporting your accident.

Don’t delay your car accident claim and speak with an attorney today for a FREE consultation at 888.222.8286