After a Car Accident

car accidents

After any car accident, it’s important to protect your rights. Even if the other driver caused an accident, proving fault can be challenging. The auto accident attorneys at Pepper & Odom, P. C. advise victims to take the following steps when they’re involved in a crash.

KEEP CALM AND REMAIN ON THE SCENE

Although you may feel shaken after a collision, try to keep calm. Typically, leaving the scene of a car accident is illegal, so you should also stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives.

Call 911

After making sure you and others are safe, call 911 or local authorities. Even if you believe you aren’t seriously injured or that damage to your car is minor, having the police document the accident is critical, especially if someone else is at fault. A police report is a piece of vital evidence that can help you hold the other driver accountable. If another motorist suggests that you “work it out” on your own to avoid calling the police or making insurance claims, don’t. Calling 911 can also ensure any injured parties get the immediate medical care they need.

EXCHANGE INFORMATION

It is also essential to gather insurance and contact information from any other drivers who were involved in the crash. Get their name, address, phone number, insurance policy information, and driver’s license and license plate numbers. Once you get this information, it’s best not to discuss anything else with them. This is important in cases involving commercial vehicle accidents, as trucking companies may send insurance company representatives to the scene while you’re still there.

Talk to Witnesses and take photos

Witnesses can be vital to proving fault in motor vehicle accident claims. Ask anyone who witnessed what happened for their contact information and get a statement about what they saw as well.

Taking photos and video also provides evidence that can prove another driver was at fault.

seek medical attention

It’s important to seek medical care after an accident, even if you’re not in any pain or don’t have visible injuries. It is not uncommon for symptoms of whiplash, concussion, spinal injuries, soft tissue injuries, or internal bleeding to be apparent until hours or even days later. A doctor can order diagnostic tests that detect fractures, brain injury or swelling, and other internal damage that could be life-threatening if left untreated. If you decide to pursue a car accident case, your medical records provide valuable documentation that can show the extent of your injuries and back up your claim.

inform your insurance company

Even if an accident wasn’t your fault, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance company to let them know what happened. In no-fault states, you may have to file a claim with your own insurance company first. Give your insurer a straightforward account of what happened and answer questions honestly, but do not admit fault or give any further information that isn’t specifically requested.

contact Pepper and Odom

Speak with experienced Mississippi or Alabama Injury Attorney here at the law firm of Pepper & Odom today if you or a loved one has been injured.  Call 601-202-1111 in Mississippi or 205-250-1107 in Alabama today for a free initial phone consultation with one of our Attorneys.