There you are, driving peacefully along when you feel the impact of another car slamming into yours. From that moment on, your stress level goes through the roof, and you feel overwhelmed by what just happened, not knowing where to begin. If this has happened to you, you know that the first step is making sure that both you and your passengers are alright, that nobody is injured, and that you can safely get out of the vehicle. If that is not possible and there are injuries, you must seek medical attention as soon as possible. If needed, call an ambulance to get you to the nearest emergency room.
If you can stay at the scene of the accident, there are several key actions that you must take:
After also making sure that the other driver is not injured and calling an ambulance if needed, you should call the police. No matter how large or small the accident is, you must call the police. You also need a copy of the official police report once it is available. If the collision happens in PA, you can easily find the Pennsylvania traffic crash report online. All you need is some of the incident’s basic information, such as your car’s VIN and the incident’s date and location. This document is your best weapon when it comes to holding the other driver responsible for the accident and accountable for damages and the costs associated with repairing your property.
Police officers are experts when it comes to determining what happened and who is at fault. Also, your insurance company will need a copy of the report. Giving it to them will result in a speedier claims process.
If you want to have information on the other driver, the time to get it is while they are still at the scene. Make sure to get their contact information, their insurance company and policy number, as well as the make, model, and license plate number of their car. Refrain from talking about the accident, about what happened, or about who you think is responsible for the crash.
If there are any witnesses, take advantage of this and ask for their testimonies and contact information. This may come in handy in the future should you need to file a claim.
Even if you seem not to have been injured in the accident, it is essential to confirm this through a medical professional. You may discover that there are internal injuries or something might be off without you noticing it. Follow your doctor’s instructions and keep a detailed file of everything you do to recover your health.
You might have doubts as to whether your insurance company will pay or the other driver’s. In any case, it is important to let your insurance provider know about the accident and give them the police report. You may discover that your injuries are so severe that you exceed the coverage offered by your policy and will need to sue the driver who is at fault to recover your damages.
Even if it is minor, being a car accident victim will involve expenses either to recover your health or to fix your damaged car. Working with a Lakeland car accident lawyer will allow you to get all your questions answered, and you will get the help you need to fight for your rights.
