5 Steps to Take When You Are in an Auto Accident
Auto accidents can be an incredibly stressful situation, but it’s important that you take a few steps to protect yourself. Whether the other driver is at fault and you need to hire a personal injury lawyer or you’re being charged with a crime and need a criminal lawyer, taking the following precautions at the scene of the accident can save you a lot of headache later.
- Move to a safe area: If possible, then move your car out of traffic. Stand far away from the road in a safe location as you discuss the accident with the other driver or passersby. A damaged car may also be dangerous. If it looks like there’s more than superficial damage, then approach the vehicle with care or wait for authorities to investigate the scene.
- Evaluate yourself and others for injuries: Even if you’re feeling alright at first, adrenaline can mask the appearance of injuries. Carefully check yourself and your passengers for injuries, especially head injuries, and call an ambulance if necessary.
- Take pictures: It’s incredibly important to document the accident, especially if there are multiple parties involved. Take pictures of the damage and the scene of the accident; they may help your personal injury lawyer with your case or protect you if you have a criminal lawyer and are facing charges. Pictures are also helpful for insurance companies.
- Exchange information: If there is another driver or drivers involved in the auto accident, then it’s important to get their information, including their names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information.
- File an accident report: It is required by law in some states to file an accident report through the DMV. For a serious accident, especially if it involves injuries, you should call the police.
If you’re looking for a personal injury lawyer after an accident in the Jacksonville or St. Augustine area, then call Kevin M. Cobbin, Attorney at Law at (888) 824-5179. We also practice criminal law and family law and can provide assistance in a number of legal situations.
Disclaimer:
The materials available at this website are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Use and access to this website or any of the links contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship. The opinions expressed at or through this site are the opinions of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the firm or any individual attorney.
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