Did you know that there are more than 10 million car and light truck crashes in the U.S. every year? Being in a car accident can be nerve-wracking and life-altering. So, it’s important to think clearly to protect yourself and other passengers with you.
We understand it’s hard to think clearly immediately afterward. However, by taking the right actions, you can safely and swiftly get compensation from car insurance companies and other drivers.
That’s why we’ll explain the steps you should take to protect your rights after a car accident.
Check for Injuries
The first step you should take is to ensure you and everyone involved are safe. You can call 911 or ask someone else if someone is hurt or if the accident is a major one. Try not to move if you’re injured. It’s also best to get a police report, even if the accident is minor.
However, if you’re not injured, exit your vehicle when you can and turn on hazard flashers to alert other drivers.
Take Inventory and Exchange Information
Once you’ve ensured everyone is fine, it’s time to take inventory. Take pictures of the accident, especially the vehicle and any debris on location. Ensure you take pictures before the vehicles are towed away.
Then you have to exchange information about car insurance with the other drivers on the road. This will prove to be crucial if there are any claims in court. Make sure you get the other driver’s information if they don’t have car insurance as it’s an infraction in California. However, you shouldn’t apologize during an exchange. It might seem polite, but admitting anything can hurt your chances of winning the claim in court.
Decide If You Want to File an Insurance Claim
Your insurance coverage depends on the fault and insurance coverage. You have to have sustained minimum amounts of bodily injury and property damage liability coverage.
If it wasn’t your fault, the other driver’s insurance will cover any property damage to your vehicle or any other damage. Moreover, it will also cover you and your passengers’ medical bills and expenses. This will all be according to the other driver’s insurance policy limit.
Your insurance policy will cover medical expenses regardless of who was at fault if you have Personal injury protection coverage. In some cases, you can even cover lost services and wages.
Call an Attorney
You should immediately call an attorney if you get into a car accident. Even if the accident seems minor, it can be taken up in court, so it’s always wise to get an attorney involved.
Even if you think your insurance will pay for the damages, insurance companies always try to pay the least amount possible. In some cases, they might even deny your claim. However, an attorney will ensure you and your rights are protected throughout the process.
Did you have an accident and believe it’s the other party’s fault? You are eligible for car accident claims coverage.
Our car accident claim attorneys will help you work on getting you the reasonable amount for your damages.
If you’re looking for a general practice firm in Chico, CA, you can reach out to us at Marquez Law Offices.
