4 Vital Steps to Follow Immediately After a Car Crash
Between 2015 to 2017, approximately 536 citizens died in Mangalore, due to reckless driving, according to the Times of India. While defensive driving is essential for staying safe on the road, there are incidents that even the most careful drivers cannot escape. For this reason, always be prepared to take the right actions to ensure you are safe and defend your privileges when an accident occurs.
Stop and Check for Injuries
Always stop your car near the accident scene regardless of how slight the crash might seem. If the damages are minor, move the vehicle to the side of the road to prevent traffic congestion. In cases where you cannot move the car, turn on your hazard lights, place warning triangles, or use flares to signal other drivers of the accident. Failure to follow the right road accident safety tips can lead to a secondary collision.
Once you are safe, the most significant thing you can do is to check on the well-being of those involved. Unless there are potential hazards at the crash location, do not move anyone who is critically injured. Although sometimes you may not feel pain after an accident, make sure to seek medical care. Call your local emergency services to provide immediate medical attention.
Inform the Police
Filing a first information report or FIR following an accident is a legal requirement in Mangalore. Whether the damages are critical or minor, you will need to report the accident to the nearest police station. Since official police accident reports cover essential details, including time, date, weather, and road condition at the time of the crash, your insurer will have the necessary information they need to settle your claim. In the event there are disagreements during a settlement case, a police report will help determine the party at fault.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
According to Lopez Law Group, victims of personal injury should collect the maximum settlement for their full recovery. If the car crash resulted from the other driver’s carelessness, you are eligible for compensation for damages caused. However, receiving a fair amount of settlement can be tricky because the at-fault driver and their insurer do not have your best interest at heart. That is why you should seek the assistance of a car accident lawyer.
Hiring an experienced auto accident lawyer immediately after the crash is a smart move to defend your privileges. An attorney will offer professional advice on how to collect evidence at the scene and tips to communicate with the other driver and authorities. When filing a claim case, a personal injury lawyer will guide you through the process and negotiate a fair settlement for your injuries, damages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
Notify Your Insurer
There are several reasons to inform your insurer of the accident. First, you will need to claim reimbursement for car damage repairs, medical expenses, and car rental services. Your insurer can only assist you if you notify them and follow the right steps for filing car insurance claims. You also need your insurer to defend you or negotiate for a fair amount of compensation with the other party if you were responsible for the accident.
It is natural to panic when involved in a fatal accident. However, refrain from saying or doing something that the other party may use against you. Instead, stay calm, collect evidence by taking photos of vehicle damages and bodily injuries, and contact an auto accident lawyer.