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Motor vehicle accidents are always devastating because they are unexpected. Each day, millions of drivers encounter threatening driving situations. Whether a person is driving through bad traffic or near a driver who isn’t paying attention, he/she has a chance of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Not surprisingly, the vast majority of motor vehicle accidents are caused by reckless and negligent driving. All too often, people pay more attention to things other than the road before them. Negligent driving behaviors include:
- talking to other passengers
- talking on cell phones
- making wrong turns
- disobeying traffic signs
- speeding
- driving under the influence
When people do not pay attention to the road, they put themselves and others in great danger.
5 Important Motor Vehicle Accident Steps
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, there are 5 basic steps you can take to ensure your general welfare.
1. Contact Law Enforcement
After you are involved in an auto accident, one of the best things you can do is contact law enforcement. The police can draft a police report, speak to the other driver, call for medical help, question witnesses, and gather necessary insurance information. If the accident was caused by negligence, and you plan to take legal action, you will need all of this information to build a credible case.
2. Trade Information with the Other Driver
After an accident, you will want to speak with the other driver involved. When speaking with the other driver, try to gather the following information:
- their name
- their address
- their phone number
- their license number
- their insurance information
- their car’s model and make
3. Photograph the Scene
After the accident has happened, you will want to take as many photographs of the scene as possible. Be sure to take pictures of your car, the other car(s) involved, the road conditions, and traffic signs. Photographs do not lie! Pictures can reveal hidden conditions or things that may have gone unnoticed. If you plan to take legal action, photographs can provide proof and justify your side of the story.
4. Get Medical Care
Just because you cannot see or feel an injury doesn’t mean one doesn’t exist. For your own safety, it is important that you seek medical treatment immediately after your motor vehicle accident. By visiting a physician, you may learn of any internal injuries or injuries that you did not notice. The physician will make a record of your physical health and injuries, which may be needed at a later date if you plan to take legal action.
5. Contact a Motor Vehicle Attorney
One of the most beneficial things you can do after your motor vehicle accident is to speak with an experienced attorney. An attorney can evaluate your case, advise you of your legal options, and investigate evidence provided by you and the police report. At Brodie & Friedman, P.A., we have helped countless clients involved in motor vehicle accidents. Contact our team of experienced attorneys if you have legal questions concerning your motor vehicle accident.
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