For as long as I can remember, the legal field has always fascinated me. While my friends watched sitcoms and cartoons, I chose to watch courtroom dramas and real life trials unfold. There was never really any question as to what I wanted to be when I got older. The only profession for me was that of a trial lawyer. Unfortunately, a serious car accident several years ago changed all that. Now, my injuries prevent me from leaving my home most days. However, my love for the law has never went away. While I may not be able to realize my dreams of becoming a trail lawyer, I still wish to help people with their legal problems. That is why I decided to start this blog. It is my hope that the information contained in these pages will help other accident victims like me when filing their personal injury claims.
The events that lead up to an automobile accident are not the only factors affecting who is later declared responsible. How you react to an accident and how you handle the situation afterwards can influence how a judge will see the incident and determine responsibility. It can also help an auto accident attorney help with your case.
Avoid legal responsibility for an auto accident by responding properly. The following are four things you should remember never do after an accident:
1. Leave the Accident Scene Too Soon
Don't assume that you can simply leave an accident scene if damage is minor and no one seems to be injured. It's always important to talk with the other drivers involved in an accident and exchange insurance information. It's also almost always advisable to contact law enforcement personnel so that a report can be filed about the accident.
In many states, you could get into serious legal trouble if you drive away from an accident scene before fulfilling your responsibilities as a driver. Leaving the scene too soon can also increase the chances that another driver will succeed in proving that you were liable for the accident.
2. Neglecting to Contact the Appropriate Authorities
Not only should you contact the police after an accident, but you also need to call 911 to report the incident.
Calling 911 and reporting accident details will give you an added record of the events that might help you defend yourself in a personal injury case later on. The operator who answers your call will walk you through any medical concerns and tasks you need to take care of before leaving the accident scene.
3. Losing Your Temper at the Accident Scene
If you feel that another driver was responsible for the crash, it might be difficult to remain in control of your temper. However, it's important that you stay in control of your emotions so that you can handle the situation reasonably and appropriately.
Avoid pinning blame on any drivers who are present at the scene of the accident. You should leave determining blame for court and simply take care of all your accident site responsibilities as calmly as possible.
4. Forgetting to Get the Proper Documentation
The first thing you'll want to do after any injuries have been attended to and after any accident debris has been moved out of the way, is exchange insurance information with any other drivers involved.
Other things you should do, especially if you suspect that liability for the accident might later be disputed in court, is collect evidence. If there are any witnesses to the accident, having their contact information is a good idea. You also might want to take photos of the scene if possible and write down the make, model, color, and license plate number of other vehicles.
Share19 March 2015
