A car accident can be a very traumatic experience. If you have been in a car accident, you may be feeling a variety of emotions, including shock, fear, and confusion. It is important to remember that you are not alone and there are people who can help, such as a Phoenix car accident attorney. Here are some steps you should take after you’ve been involved in a car accident:
Step One: Check for Injuries and Call 911
The first thing you should do after a car accident is to check for injuries. If anyone appears to be seriously injured, call 911 immediately and request an ambulance. Even if the accident appears to be minor, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention just to be safe. Once you have called for medical help, if possible, move your vehicle out of the roadway to avoid blocking traffic.
Step Two: Exchange Information With the Other Drivers Involved
Once you have ensured that everyone involved is okay and has received any necessary medical attention, the next step is to exchange information with the other drivers involved. You should get the name, address, phone number, and insurance information from the other driver or drivers.
You also need to give them your information, as it’s required under Arizona law. It’s also a good idea to get the names and contact information of any witnesses who may have seen what happened.
Step Three: Notify Your Insurance Company About the Accident
After you have exchanged information with the other driver or drivers involved and have gotten any necessary medical attention, your next call should be to your insurance company. You will want to notify them about the accident as soon as possible so that they can begin processing your claim.
Some insurance companies require that you notify them within 24 hours of an accident, so it’s important to make this call as soon as possible after the incident occurs.
When you call, have all your information—including your policy number—ready so that they can begin processing your claim quickly and efficiently.
You will also want to ask your insurance company how you should proceed with getting your vehicle repaired. Many insurance companies have preferred body shops that they work with which can help streamline getting your vehicle fixed after an accident has occurred.
Step Four: Gather Evidence
The next step is to start gathering evidence. This includes things like medical records, police reports, photos of the scene of the accident, and eyewitness testimony. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Step Five: Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
While some car accidents are minor fender benders that can be handled without involving an attorney, others are much more serious collisions that result in significant property damage and injuries. If you have been involved in a serious car accident, it’s important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive compensation for your injuries and damages.
An experienced personal injury attorney in Phoenix will know how to deal with aggressive insurance companies and their adjusters so that you don’t have to worry about fighting for the settlement you deserve.
If you need help, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.