Note: This blog is intended for those who are not seriously injured in an auto wreck.
If you are, awaiting medical attention is your wisest move.
According to the Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT), in the United States, more than 2.3 million people are injured each year in car crashes. Fortunately, many of these injuries are minor, and the driver is able to walk on his or her own accord. If accident victims are not badly injured, some quick thinking can help provide their auto accident attorneys with evidence that could strongly strengthen a future lawsuit in Brevard County, Florida courts.
If you’re able to move around the scene of the accident, do these 5 important things, after making sure that all involved motorists are not seriously injured:
- Call the police. If there is a significant amount of damage to one or both vehicles, a police report will be written up and filed. This document serves as evidence of damage for your insurance company, and is a great starting point for your injury lawyer.
- Get the other driver’s insurance information. Write down the name and phone number of the other motorist. Document the color, year, make, and model of the vehicle involved in the wreck. If you’re able to record the other car’s VIN number, do so.
- Obtain the names and contact information of witnesses. Anyone who saw what happened is considered a witness. It’s easy to make mistakes when adrenaline is pumping, or when you’re scared, so be sure to double check spellings of names with witnesses, as well as phone numbers.
- Take full advantage of your smart phone. Take as many photos as you can of the damage to both vehicles. In Melbourne, police often are on the scene right away. However; if they aren’t able to arrive as quickly, take extra time to photograph the scene. Make sure that you get a few shots of the scene of the crash before moving your cars (if operable) out of traffic. Consider yourself a detective, unearthing new evidence with every step you take following an accident. This is the information that is needed to proceed with a lawsuit in the event that the other motorist’s insurance company denies your claim.
- Stay calm. It’s important to remain cool and collected following a crash. It won’t do you any good to fight or argue with the other driver, regardless of fault. In fact, you could find yourself facing charges for assault if your temper gets the better of you. Be cordial and to the point, don’t admit guilt, don’t talk too much and avoid confrontation.
If you’ve done one or more of the preceding five things, your initial consultation with a Melbourne car wreck attorney should be easy. Let Couture Law P.A. fight on your behalf in Brevard County, allowing you to focus on recovery.