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Do You Know What to Do – and What Not to Do – Following a Car Accident?

Most people will end up involved in a car accident at some point in their lives, yet many people do not have the first clue about how to deal with it. Read on to learn about the dos and don’ts that you should follow after a car accident. Remember that you can contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 now for a free legal consultation.

Do Not Leave the Scene

Even if you are not at all at fault for the accident, if you leave the scene you could be charged with a hit and run – which is a felony. You must stop after the accident and exchange information with the other involved driver(s). Of course, if you or someone in your vehicle has sustained a catastrophic injury and must go to the hospital, then this is the only exception. You should then report it to the police as soon as possible.

Do Call for Help

If there is even a minor injury, it is important to get emergency services to the accident. If there are no injuries but there is property damage of at least $500 then you need to contact the police. Of course, if emergency help is needed, you will call 9-1-1.

Do Not Move Your Vehicle Unless You Have To

If you must move your vehicle to be safe, then do so. Otherwise, no matter how aggravated other drivers may be, you want to take photos of all the cars involved in the accident before they move. You can take videos too. Documenting the exact location of vehicles is important to establish how the accident happened and who was at fault.

Do Gather as Much Information as You Can at the Scene

Start by gathering information on the other involved parties. This includes phone numbers, insurance information, and more. Then get information on their vehicles. This includes license plate numbers and even VINs. Get names, addresses, and phone number for people who witnessed the accident as well. Take notes on the weather, road conditions, any lanes that were closed, nearby signage, and anything else that might be necessary to your case. Do not assume that you will remember these important facts.

Do Not Call Your Insurance Company without First Talking to an Attorney

You will be tempted to contact your insurance company. Do not do this. Instead, call a personal injury attorney. We can ensure that you do not inadvertently say something that could be used against you. You might think that as long as you were honest and stuck to the facts you would be fine, but even the slightest inconsistency can be used as “evidence” that you are not being dishonest about your injuries.

You can call Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 now for a free legal consultation.