Steps You Should Take After a Car Accident

December 16, 2019

It’s safe to say that nobody ever expects to get involved in a car accident. Unfortunately, it is a situation that most drivers will have to confront sooner or later. So, how can you prepare for it? If you want to be ready for the possibility of an accident, then you should know in advance who you’re going to call. A personal injury lawyer near Ontario, CA, can provide you with the guidance you need to protect your rights—especially if you have been injured. Here are the other steps you should take in the aftermath of a car accident.

Check yourself and others for possible injuries.

The first and most important step to take after a car accident is to see if anybody has been injured. If you or someone else has been hurt, then it is important to call emergency services right away. Also, try not to move an injured person until emergency personnel arrive. If you don’t have a phone, then ask a bystander if they can call for assistance. It’s also important to make sure that you pay attention to any symptoms you experience that might be related to the accident. If you experience any pain or discomfort later, then you should go to a doctor.

Make sure you are in a safe place.

After checking to make sure nobody has been injured, you should then move out of the way of immediate danger. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road, out of the flow of traffic. If this is not possible, then make sure that you and other people at the accident scene are not standing near the flow of traffic. Be especially careful if you are outside at night, or even at dawn or dusk. Turn on your hazard lights to make other drivers aware of the accident.

Gather evidence of the accident.

To protect your rights, try to get as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Use your phone to take pictures of your vehicles, and write down details of the accident while they are still fresh in your mind. You should also exchange information with the other driver. Make sure to get their full name and address, their driver’s license and license plate numbers, and their insurance information. Also, be sure to keep any medical bills or anything else that documents any treatment you receive for injuries sustained in the accident.

Call the police to report the accident.

Under California law, you must report any traffic accident to the police within 24 hours. If you do not call the police from the accident scene, then you will need to fill out a report at the local police station. Having a police record of the accident is also essential for protecting your rights. If anyone was injured, then you will also need to report the accident to the DMV within seven days.

If you have been involved in a car accident near Ontario, CA, then you need a seasoned lawyer in your corner. That’s when it’s time to call The Baum Law Firm. Our firm has been representing clients in the area since 1959, and we will be glad to answer your questions about your claim. Remember: You won’t owe us a dime unless we are able to recover money for you. Are you ready to learn more? If so, then call (951) 200-4265 for a free phone consultation.