What To Do In A Car Wreck.
Car Wrecks
If you are involved in an automobile accident here are some things that you can do that will be beneficial to you and your potential case.
Remain Calm
Becoming upset because of an accident may lead to emotional decisions that may create additional problems for those involved. It is important to try to remain calm and stay at the scene of the accident. Do not make statements admitting fault or negligence.
Notify the Police & Seek Emergency Medical Services if Needed
You will need to contact the local authorities to report the accident and request emergency medical services if the accident involves injuries that will require medical treatment. Many times after an accident a victim may think that they have not sustained any injuries just to have the symptoms of the injuries appear several days after the accident. It is always best to be evaluated by a medical professional after an accident to make sure that any injuries that were sustained in the accident are discovered, treated, and documented. Local law enforcement will need to report to the scene of the accident and complete an accident report. For legal claims to be brought in court against a negligent party an accident report must be completed by the local law enforcement agency and filed with the Alabama State Police Department. The accident report may also be used in court as evidence of the accident.
Exchange information with the other driver(s)
Law enforcement will generally provide for the exchange of information between drivers involved in an accident but Alabama law (Alabama Code Section 32-10-2) requires that in the event of a car accident, the driver give his name, address, and the registration number of the vehicle he is driving, shall upon request exhibit his driver’s license to the person struck or the driver or occupant of or person attending any motor or other vehicle collided with or damaged and shall render to any person injured in such accident reasonable assistance, including the transportation of, or the making of arrangements for the transportation of such person to a physician or hospital for medical or surgical treatment, if it is apparent that such treatment is necessary or if such transportation is requested by the injured person.
Notify Your Insurance Carrier
Alabama law requires that you must notify your insurance carrier when you have been involved in an accident or they may not have to pay your insurance claim.
Make Notes About the Accident and Keep Important Records
In the event of an accident it is important to document the details of what occurred including the names of the police officers who took the accident report, the names of those involved in the accident, traffic conditions, weather conditions, statements made by individuals at the scene, location information, and information about any video cameras that may have recorded the accident. Keep a record of any bills paid for medical treatment, car repairs, or other related expenses and any paperwork you may receive from insurance companies. The more detailed your notes are the easier it will be later when you need to produce this information for litigation purposes.
Contact Guntersville Law, LLC
Call us to set up your free consultation and speak to an attorney who will be able to help you deal with the insurance companies and other parties to protect your interests and get you the help you need during this difficult time.
Please call us and schedule a free consultation (256) 202-6774.
Guntersville Law, LLC is a private law firm and is not associated with any Government entity. As required by the Alabama State Bar: “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.”