Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions

From A Minor Car Accident To A Head-On Collision, Most People Become Confused About Which Steps To Take Next

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What Are The First Steps I Should Take After A Car Accident?

• Call an ambulance if anyone is injured.
• Move your vehicle away from oncoming traffic to avoid any additional accidents.
• Call the police to file an official police report.
• Obtain information from the other party and any witnesses and collect any evidence
• Don’t leave the scene of the accident.

Depending on the specific circumstances involved with the car accident, these steps could be the furthest from your mind. It is important to understand that you must never leave the scene of an accident unless you are being transported to a hospital.

What Kind Of Evidence Should I Collect At The Scene Of An Accident?

When gathering evidence make sure you obtain the contact information of the other party. You want to make sure you have the following:

• Name
• Phone number
• Drivers license number
• Insurance information
• License plate number
• Year, Make & Model of their vehicle.
• Each vehicle registration number.
• Take photos of the accident scene.

It’s also a good idea to get statements and contact information from any witnesses.

Gathering this information as quickly as possible is crucial.

Should I Call The Police After An Accident?

You should contact the police if there is significant vehicle damage, if someone sustained an injury or died.

Is It Important To Get A Copy Of The Police Report?

The police report is official documentation of circumstances surrounding the accident. It is extremely important to have as much documentation as possible.

Aside from the same kinds of evidence you gathered at the accident scene, police reports also generally include the officer’s own narrative of details and causes related to the accident and sometimes even diagrams of the accident scene and impact point.

Having as much detailed documentation as you can will help tremendously when it comes to:

• Filing your car insurance claim (particularly, a personal injury or property damage claim).
• How the claims adjuster moves forward.
• How the insurance companies determine fault.

Should I Admit Fault For The Accident?

NO!

Never admit fault for a car accident. Fault is determined upon a completed investigation. There may be other facts or circumstances involved that you are not aware of.

Should I Always See A Doctor After A Car Accident?

It’s best to always seek medical attention as soon as possible following a car crash.

How Do I know If I Have A “Personal Injury” Case?

If you were injured in a car accident, contact a lawyer. Personal injury consultations are typically free.

What Medical Records Should I Keep?

You want to have all medical records from each medical professional you see for injuries related to the car accident.

Should I Provide The Other Driver’s Insurance Company With My Medical Records?

NO!

The ONLY people who should have access to your medical records are your doctors and your car accident attorney. When it’s time to present your medical records to the insurance company as evidence, your car accident lawyer will do so.

Who Is Responsible For Car Repair Costs?

Generally, the insurance company of the party at fault is responsible for paying car repair costs.

What If Damages To My Car Prevents Me From Going To Work?

Car accident attorneys pay attention to lost wages when filing a suit against insurance companies. They will help you compile the necessary documentation to prove your lost wages.

How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit?

In the state of California the statue of limitations for injury is 2 years. The stature of limitations for property damage is 3 years. CODE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE – CCP

How Long Does The Legal Process Take?

Just like other aspects of a car accident case this varies. However the more evidence you have, the faster your car accident attorney can work.

Have you or someone you know been involved in a car accident?

Our car accident attorneys at Simpson Law Group are available to help you whenever the need arises. We are always available to provide a consultation for free. We are just a phone call away.

(Source) dmv.org