No person goes on with their day expecting to be involved in a vehicle collision. However, when that day comes, it is important to take the necessary measures listed below that can help safeguard your rights as you try to recover from your injury and seek compensation for your damages.
Remain at the scene and assess your condition
The first thing you need to do after being in a car accident is to evaluate yourself for injuries and any signs of trauma. Call 911 and seek medical assistance as soon as possible. You can do this by asking the paramedics to take you to the nearest hospital.
While waiting for help to arrive, exchange information and insurance details with the other driver. If there are any witnesses in the vicinity, collect their contact details as well.
Notify the police and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
After getting your injuries assessed and treated by a medical professional, it is important to contact the police and inform them of the accident. If the accident led to an injury, death or property damage exceeding $1,000, then you will also have to notify the California DMV. These reports are crucial as they both create an official record of your car accident, which you can later use as evidence in your insurance claim.
Be aware that if you fail to report your crash to the California DMV within ten days, you risk getting your driver’s license suspended.
Return to the scene and gather proof of the accident
Once you feel better, you must go back to the scene of the accident to collect additional evidence. Take photos and videos documenting vehicle damage, license plate numbers and car models.
These media files, along with your medical records, witness statements, the California DMV and police reports, can all be used as evidence that can strengthen your case and help determine who was at fault in the accident.
Consider contacting a car accident lawyer
Although this step is not required, seeking the assistance of a California car accident lawyer can help speed up your insurance claim process and ensure that your rights remain protected. They may review your evidence, evaluate the case and provide a course of action that can help lead you to the best outcome possible.
Notify your insurance company
Call your insurance company to inform them of the car accident. Be mindful of the conversation and avoid sharing too much information about your injuries or who was at fault. A good rule of thumb is to stick to the basic facts.
You have the right to seek compensation
Your path to recovery should be easy. By learning about California’s car accident compensation laws and being proactive with your case, you can gather the key documents that can help solidify your personal injury claim and manage the entire process with better ease.