Even if you’re a cautious driver, the unexpected can happen. You might have the right of way, signal appropriately and even stay within the speed limit – but that doesn’t prevent another driver from turning directly in front of you, or coming at you from an angle so narrow that you have no choice but to hit them. The result is often the same: a car accident that leaves both parties with significant expenses and recovery time. Fortunately, as an educated driver who understands your rights and responsibilities on the road, you are in a better position than most to take action after being involved in a car accident. In fact, by speaking to an experienced car accident lawyer Baltimore Rafaellaw.com as soon as possible after the incident, you can increase your chances of recovering fair financial compensation for any injuries sustained and other related expenses.
Here are the steps you should take if ever involved in a car accident:
Contact the police immediately
If the accident results in injuries or property damage, the first thing you should do is call the police. Whether or not someone is injured, the police report can help you establish a timeline of events, identify witnesses and show that you were not at fault for the accident. It can also be helpful in your efforts to collect compensation. Since most car insurance policies require an officer’s report to make a claim. If you do not feel comfortable speaking with the police, you can ask a friend or family member to make the call for you. If another driver is at fault, you can also request that the officer issue a traffic citation. Depending on your state’s laws, you may also be able to have the other driver’s license suspended or revoked.
Document everything
After the accident has been cleared and any injuries have been treated. It’s crucial to take pictures of the scene, the vehicles involved and any visible injuries. Likewise, you should take pictures of any injuries, receipts for medical treatment and other expenses related to the incident. These items will help you and your attorney build a stronger case and prove that you were not at fault. It’s also a good idea to write down the details of what happened as soon as possible. Include the date, time, weather and road conditions, as well as a description of the vehicles involved and any witnesses to the accident. A written account will also help you stay organized and avoid missing any important details.
Preserve the evidence
Even if you don’t suspect foul play, the accident may have left behind critical evidence. This can include skid marks, tire marks, debris left at the scene and even blood or DNA on your car. Any of these items can help you prove that the other driver was at fault, whether you file a claim with your own insurance company or take the other driver to court. In order to preserve the evidence, you should avoid moving it or cleaning it up. As this could interfere with police investigation or an expert’s ability to collect it.
You should also refrain from touching any broken glass or items that could have blood on them. And You should also keep all medications, bandages and medical bills related to the accident in a safe place. You may have to produce these items in court, so it’s best to keep them organized and in a location that is private and secure.
Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer Baltimore Rafaellaw.com
If you’ve followed these steps and received a traffic citation, been issued a notice of claim by your insurance company or been told by a doctor that you may have suffered significant injuries, it’s time to contact a car accident lawyer Baltimore Rafaellaw.com. Your attorney will be experienced in dealing with insurance companies and can help you maximize your compensation. It’s also a good idea to consult with an attorney before you accept a settlement offer. As this will ensure that you are not accepting too little to cover your expenses. A car accident can be a stressful and frightening experience. But with these three steps, you’ll have a better chance of recovering financially and moving on with your life.
