Car accidents are jarring, as they happen suddenly and without warning. This is why you must have a plan before an accident happens. If you have been injured in a car accident and are now seeking financial compensation, please continue reading and reach out to a seasoned San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer from our firm. Here are some of the questions you may have about the steps you should take after a car accident:
How do car accidents happen?
Car accidents are the most common of all auto accidents. Of course, car accidents can be caused by several different reasons, including negligent road designs, poor road conditions, such as potholes, or even inclement weather conditions such as snow or ice–something we all now have to worry about with the winter season approaching. However, unfortunately, though perhaps unsurprisingly, the most common cause of car accidents is driver negligence. Some of the most common forms of driver negligence in today’s day and age include driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, texting or otherwise driving while distracted, driving while drowsy or fatigued, and, of course, speeding. If you are someone who has been involved in an accident as a result of any of the above negligent driving behaviors, there is a very good chance you will qualify for financial compensation to help you recover the damages you have incurred.
What steps should I take after sustaining an injury in a car accident?
The first thing you should do after a car accident is call the police. The police will document the accident as it happened, as well as diffuse the tension if the other motorist is behaving dangerously or aggressively. Though these accidents are of course high-stress situations, it is extremely important that you maintain your composure throughout the interaction. That being said, you must never apologize for the accident, as this may be interpreted as admitting fault. Do not let this happen.
If you are physically capable of speaking with any witnesses of the accident, ensure you do so and ask them for their contact information so they may help verify your claim. Once you have, you must then seek medical attention so a physician can treat your injuries and provide you with medical documentation regarding the severity and origin of your injuries, which you may also use to prove your claim. Lastly, the most important thing you can do is hire an attorney who knows how important it is for you to win the financial compensation you need to get back on your feet again. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place.