Since 1974, The Law Firm of Terrell Hogan has been representing injured victims and their families involved in all types of accidents: auto, motorcycle, truck, semi’s, slip and falls, bicycle, pedestrian, medical malpractice and prescription mistakes, and wrongful death cases. Our group of attorneys is some of the most experienced, skilled and knowledgeable, trial-tested lawyers practicing today.
If you are involved in a vehicular collision of any type here are some simple steps you should follow:
First, Try and Stay Calm: If you are involved in an accident, it’s essential to stay calm and composed to make the right decisions about the immediate situation effectively. If the accident was caused by someone else, your first reaction might be to get angry but that will not help you to have a clear head and be able to handle what needs to happen in a relatively short time.
Second, Ensure Your Safety: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If there are any injuries requiring immediate medical attention, call emergency services right away. Remember, Doctor First, Lawyer Second.
Thinking About Your Safety First: Depending on the amount of damage incurred and if it is safe to do so, move your vehicle off to the side of the road or a safe location to avoid obstructing traffic. Many times, cars and trucks involved in one accident are struck again by careless or distracted drivers so make sure your vehicle is well out of the way of danger and out of harm’s way.
Contact the Authorities: Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s important to notify the police as soon as you can. Call the local law enforcement agency and inform them about the accident. They will guide you on what to do next and may come to the scene to assess the situation. They can document the accident and create an official report, which can be helpful for insurance claims.
Remember to Obtain a Copy of The Accident Report: If the police come to the scene, they will likely create an accident report. Obtain a copy of this report for your records. It can be helpful when dealing with insurance companies or if legal action becomes necessary.
Exchange Information: Interact with the other driver involved in the accident. Exchange information with the other driver and take cell phone photos if possible. Obtain their name, contact number, license plate number, driver’s license information, and insurance details. Provide your information to them as well. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information too.
Document the Incident: Take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to both vehicles. This visual evidence can be useful for insurance purposes. Make notes about the time, location, and any other relevant details while they are fresh in your memory.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about what happened. They will guide you through the claims process and advise you on what steps to take next. Be honest and provide accurate details about the accident.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Even if you believe you may be partially or entirely at fault, it’s generally best not to admit fault at the scene. Fault determination is typically handled by insurance companies and, if necessary, the legal system. Stick to providing accurate information and avoid discussing fault or blame with the other party involved.
Seek Medical Attention if Needed: Even if you don’t initially feel injured, some injuries may have delayed symptoms. If you experience any pain or discomfort after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. This ensures that any injuries are properly assessed and treated.
Consult With an Attorney at Terrell Hogan: In most cases, if the accident was not your fault and even if there is not significant damage, having expert legal counsel is always beneficial for ensuring you receive fair and just compensation for any loss you might have: non-use of the vehicle, time off from work, diminished value, etc. If there are significant damages, injuries, or disputes regarding liability, consulting with a personal injury attorney is essential. They will provide guidance and help protect your rights throughout the process. Having an attorney involved, where damages are being sought, will enable you to receive higher compensation for your injuries and loss, than if you are not represented by legal counsel.
To speak to a personal injury lawyer give us a call at 904-722-2228 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Remember, it’s crucial to stay calm and cooperative throughout the entire process. Avoid arguing or placing blame at the scene of the accident, as it can escalate the situation further. Focus on gathering accurate information and following these necessary steps to ensure a smooth resolution.
These steps are general guidelines, and the specific actions you should take can vary depending on your location and the circumstances of the accident. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding motor vehicle accidents and call an attorney who will protect your interests at no cost unless they win money for you.
