Being involved in a car accident can be a jarring experience, but how you handle the situation can greatly affect the outcome of your claim. Taking the right steps at the crash scene is essential for protecting your rights and building a strong case. Our Germantown, MD car accident lawyer will do everything possible to secure maximum financial compensation and preserving evidence quickly will strengthen your case.
Speaking With The Police
One of the first things you should do after a car accident is call the police. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have an official report filed. The police can document important details like the location, time, and cause of the accident, which can help validate your claim later.
When speaking with the police, stick to the facts. Don’t speculate on what happened or admit fault, even if you feel responsible. It’s common for emotions to run high after a crash, and saying something like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” could be used against you later. Simply describe the events as you remember them and allow the police to investigate further.
Preserving Evidence
Evidence is one of the strongest tools you can have when pursuing a vehicle accident claim. Timely action after a car accident is essential for proving negligence. Take photos of the crash, including damage to all vehicles involved, the road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Photos can provide a clear, visual record of the accident and can be influential in proving fault.
In addition to photos, speak with any witnesses at the scene and collect their contact information. Eyewitness testimony can provide a clear account of what happened, which may back up your version of events. Make sure to note any relevant details, such as traffic conditions or actions of the other driver that may have contributed to the accident.
Dealing With The At-Fault Driver
When interacting with the at-fault driver, it’s important to keep things brief and professional. Exchange contact and insurance information, including names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and policy numbers. Avoid discussing the accident in detail or speculating about fault. Statements like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m fine” can be misinterpreted or used against you later.
Do not argue with the other driver or get into an emotional exchange. Simply gather the necessary information and wait for the police to arrive. If the at-fault driver seems unwilling to provide information, document their license plate number and any other identifying details.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the crash, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be apparent right away but can become serious over time. A medical professional can assess your condition and provide a clear record of any injuries sustained in the crash.
Your medical records include key documentation you will need for your accident case. They serve as evidence to show the extent of your injuries and how they impact your daily life. If you wait too long to seek treatment, it may be harder to prove that your injuries were directly caused by the accident. In some cases, delays in seeking medical attention can also harm the credibility of your claim.
When To Contact A Car Accident Lawyer
Once you’ve taken the necessary steps at the scene of the wreck, the next important step is to reach out to our auto accident lawyer. The sooner you contact Antezana & Antezana LLC, the sooner we can begin gathering evidence, handling communication with insurance companies, and working to protect your rights. We have over twenty years of experience advocating for personal injury victims. Our attorneys recover over $30 million in settlements annually. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you take the next step toward justice.
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