Being involved in a car accident can be one of the most frightening experiences a person can face, and yet being prepared is one of the most important assets you can bring to a car accident. While there are obviously fatalities and terrible injuries caused by collisions on a daily basis, there are often times smaller accidents as well. In many cases you may experience injuries that don't incapacitate you and therefore it is essential that you know what to do in those moments. When an accident is caused by the negligent or careless acts of another driver on the road, you are likely entitled to receive compensation for the injuries they have caused you and as a result it is smart to know of an experienced car accident attorney in your area whom you can call when this occasion occurs.
According to the United States Census, there were a total of 10.8 million motor vehicle crashes that were reported in the year of 2009, and 33,808 fatalities that year as well. Clearly, car accidents are a way of life here in America and for that reason being prepared is even more essential. First off, as a driver you should always have a first aid or emergency kit in your car so that you are prepared for an accident. As a driver you should always have a cell phone with you at all times that you can call for help immediately. Other essential artifacts you should always have on you include a pen and paper, as well as a card that has information about any specific medical needs you may have. You will want to have a flashlight in your car in case the accident occurs at night; and also cones and warning triangles in order to warn on coming drivers of the accident.
Another important aspect to be aware of is that even when there is an accident, safety is essential. If there are no serious injuries, moving your vehicle to a safe area on the side of the road should be your primary goal. This will prevent other cars from being at risk of crashing into yours or the other cars that were involved in the accident. In the event that a vehicle is unable to be moved from the middle of the road, make sure all people involved remain in their seatbelts until emergency help comes to the scene. It is in situations like this that emergency flares, and cones can be very helpful especially.
Once you are in a safe designated area, make sure you exchange information with the other drivers involved. This will include name, address, phone number, driver's license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Also, you will want to use a camera or your cell phone to take pictures of the accident this includes your own cars damages, all other cars involved including their license plates. You will want to make sure the scene of the accident is well documented, so that you can make sure there is evidence and that the right people can be held responsible. Next, you will want to call the local highway patrol officers to make an official report . While you can go into the police station or DMV later on to do so, by having an officer on the scene who can vouch for what happened will be helpful in the event you want to file a lawsuit later on for you injuries.
When you are involved in a car accident, it is also helpful to have a general understanding of your own insurance policy at this time. Being familiar with insurance will help you not have to experience the shock of making a deductible payment while you wait for your recovery from the other driver's insurance company. It is also helpful because if you were involved in an accident, there is a good chance you will need a rental car; knowing whether your insurance company will reimburse you for this is helpful the day of an accident if you need a ride home.
Lastly, if you have been injured in any way from an accident; do not hesitate in contacting a personal injury attorney in order to take legal action and seek the compensation you deserve for you injuries! No person deserves to suffer from the wrongful acts of another person, you deserve more than that. Find an attorney in your area for more information!