If you, or a loved one, have been injured in an automobile accident, you know what a pain it is, both literally and figuratively.
Serious bodily injury can be sustained not only from the impact of the vehicles, but also from the secondary impact within your own car (i.e., the windshield or dashboard, for instance). Automobile accidents remain the leading cause of death among young adults.
Here are some things you can do that may help your case, if you are in an accident:
- Check for injuries to you, passengers, and the other party.
- Call 911 to ensure medical professionals come to assess and treat injuries. It’s also important that law enforcement be dispatched to properly record all relevant information concerning the accident.
- Get the name, address, phone number and insurance information for the other party, as well as information from any witnesses to the accident.
- Take photos of both your car and the other party’s automobile. This is essential so that we can show the extent of the damage. Take photos of any injuries you have, such as bruises and abrasions, and anything else that is a visible result of the accident.
- Report the accident to your insurance carrier.
- Do Not provide a recorded statement. Such statements may be taken out of context and may be used against you.
If you are involved in a multi-car crash, there are other factors that will be considered when determining fault. Following too closely may cause driver number two to be at fault, and if driver number three was also following too closely, they could also be held responsible.
If one of the drivers is drunk, talking on the phone or otherwise distracted, they may also be at fault.
Vehicle malfunction, such as airbags that don’t deploy, may mean that the manufacturer shares some fault.
In a hit-and-run accident other drivers may indeed be innocent. Facts gathered at the scene will help officers determine fault.
If you’re involved in a multi-car accident, it is a good idea to consult an attorney who can sort through all of the factors involved in such a crash.
If you need to find an attorney in your area, please consult our Online Legal Directory.