Around every 3 minutes, a crash is reported in Alabama. No matter how skilled of a driver you are, or if you have never been the cause of an accident in the past, a car crash could happen to you. As it does to so many other Alabamians.
Being involved in a crash can be minor, but it, unfortunately, can also result in life-changing injuries, trauma or significant financial implications.
Our law firm, Laplante, Merritt, Faulkner, Wilson, & Clay, has represented those affected by auto accidents and the negligence of others for many years in northeast Alabama. We have provided quality legal services and helped many clients reach just compensation for their accidents.
Preparing yourself in case the worst happens is the best one can hope for. If a car accident does occur, here are some steps you can take to maximize the chances of fair compensation.
What to do after a car accident
Check to see if you are injured. If you are not badly hurt, exit the vehicle (ensuring the road is safe). If you are injured, contact 911 immediately!
Contact the police
Always report the accident to the police. No matter how little damage, this step is always advised.
Filing a police report might seem like an inconvenience, especially if the accident was minor, but it can help protect you against future issues. Filing a police report is a step to document the facts of the accident. This is an easy way to have an unbiased account of the incident. If either party files an insurance claim then a police report is most certainly needed.
Talk with the other driver
Try to obtain as much information as possible from the other driver and the passengers. If there are any witnesses on the scene or nearby, try and talk to them as well. Don’t admit liability and don’t blame the other driver for the accident. It is best to keep a cool head and not let emotions run high, even if you feel you are not at fault.
Ask the other driver and passengers for their information. Driver’s License, telephone number, insurance information, and any additional information that could be useful.
Document the scene.
Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the damage to the other vehicle(s), and any debris around the area. Take a picture of where the accident happened. Take pictures of any injuries that occurred to you or any passenger. Remember, pictures do not change, they could be the best evidence you have of the extent and circumstances surrounding your accident.
Call for medical attention if necessary
A professional medical evaluation is an important step to consider given injuries may not be present immediately after a traumatic event has occurred. A doctor might be able to detect something wrong that someone would not be aware of
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Call your insurance provider to file a claim as soon as you can. Do not overstate your accident. Inform them of the crash and ask they start a claim.
Contact An Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer
Insurance companies would prefer you not to seek legal representation, however you should be advised that you may need legal representation. Our firm has worked in personal injury law for many years in northeast Alabama. We know the ins and outs of the complexities involved with car accidents and how to build a strong case.
If you are located in Northeast Alabama, contact our firm today for a consultation. We have offices in Anniston and Wedowee and are ready to work with you. Find out more about how we handle car accident personal injury cases by clicking here.