What You Should Do Immediately After an Automobile Accident
The aftermath of a car crash can prove almost as chaotic as the collision itself. Events unfold faster than most people can process them. However, the first moments and hours after an automobile accident are critical from an evidence-gathering standpoint. Protect yourself after a car accident by completing the following essential tasks.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Yourself and Your Passengers
First and foremost, be sure that you and your passengers receive emergency medical attention. The medical reports and bills will provide evidence that may be useful in the event of protracted litigation.
If you do not have medical insurance, contact us at Dobbs Law Firm in Odessa, TX. Our law office will make sure you still receive the medical care you need.
If you do not have medical insurance, contact us at Dobbs Law Firm in Odessa, TX. Our law office will make sure you still receive the medical care you need.
Gather Evidence at the Scene of the Accident
Record the Names and Contact Information of Witnesses
If you are able, engage potential witnesses at the scene. Write down their names, statements, and contact information so you and your attorney can reach them in the future. Also, you can take videos of the witnesses if they allow it. Videos or voice recordings may provide evidence of their perceptions of what happened immediately after the event.
Take Videos and Photographs of Damage to the Vehicles Involved
Once you have recorded information from witnesses, you should take videos and photographs of the damage to all vehicles involved in the collision. You’ll want to capture the photos as soon as possible in case one or more of the vehicles gets towed. You should also take photographs of the scene, tire marks, and any nearby property damage.
Avoid Speaking with All Insurance Providers
If you receive a communication from an insurance provider, do not speak with them aside from informing them that your attorney will contact them soon. Insurance carriers almost always record conversations with parties involved in an insurance claim and may use your statements against you in court. If you say the wrong thing, your insurance company may reduce your benefits or even deny your claim.
Contact Us at Dobbs Law Firm Immediately
Record the Names and Contact Information of Witnesses
If you are able, engage potential witnesses at the scene. Write down their names, statements, and contact information so you and your attorney can reach them in the future. Also, you can take videos of the witnesses if they allow it. Videos or voice recordings may provide evidence of their perceptions of what happened immediately after the event.
Take Videos and Photographs of Damage to the Vehicles Involved
Once you have recorded information from witnesses, you should take videos and photographs of the damage to all vehicles involved in the collision. You’ll want to capture the photos as soon as possible in case one or more of the vehicles gets towed. You should also take photographs of the scene, tire marks, and any nearby property damage.