A serious car accident can leave even the most even-keeled among us bewildered and confused. In an unexpected moment, a life can change profoundly. Here is a checklist of what to do if you are seriously hurt in an accident:
- Assess the damage. Is anyone hurt? Determine if anyone needs immediate medical attention and if so call for an ambulance;
- Call the Police. When the police officer arrives, report the facts only. It is important to make sure that the auto accident is properly reported, even if it appears to be a minor collision and speak to the police officer about the facts.
- Exchange information such as license, registration and insurance, but don’t discuss the auto accident. Be sure to write down the address and information directly from the driver license and record the license plate of the other vehicle.
- If the other driver is a hot head, don’t engage him or her. In this age of road rage, think of safety first. If you feel threatened, stay in the car and wait for the police to arrive.
- Under no circumstance should you admit fault even if you feel guilty. Fault is a legal conclusion, not a fact. Your attempt to be nice, could cost yourself large sums of money
- Photograph the scene and the cars involved. Also record other helpful information such as the location, time of day and weather conditions.
- Don’t leave the scene until the accident is reported. Many states, including Pennsylvania, have laws that may result in criminal sanctions if you flee the scene. If the other driver tries to flee, immediately write down the car description and tag number.
- Call your attorney quickly, even if you don’t feel injured right away. Your lawyer may be a source of important information on how to protect yourself.
- Report the auto accident to your insurance company. But don’t make any recorded statements without the advice of counsel.
- 10. Get checked out by a medical professional. It’s your right to be healthy. Often, because of the shock, your injuries may not be clear right away. Your muscles may stiffen overnight. A quick visit with good doctor may prevent an injury from becoming more serious.
Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Geoffrey B. Gompers & Associates Handle All Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents
The Philadelphia accident lawyers at Geoffrey B. Gompers & Associates, P.C. focus their practice of law on representing accident victims, offering free consultations for accident cases. We work hard to get our clients the maximum compensation for their injuries and have successfully handled all types of motor vehicle accident cases in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey courts including Philadelphia County, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Delaware County. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, call our office today at 215-567-6600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We will answer your call or respond promptly 24 hours a day/7 days a week.