Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can be stressful, but knowing the proper steps to take afterward can help protect your safety and rights. Here’s a guide on what to do if you’re in an accident:
1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
The first priority is safety. Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any hidden problems.
If the vehicles are in a dangerous spot, like in the middle of traffic, and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side. If they cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights and set up warning signs or flares if you have them.
2. Call the Police
It’s important to notify the police, especially in accidents involving injuries or significant damage. A police report will document the incident and can be valuable when dealing with insurance companies or potential legal issues. When the police arrive, provide a clear account of what happened but avoid admitting fault.
In some cases, the police might not come to the scene. If that happens, you may need to file a report at the nearest police station, depending on local regulations.
3. Exchange Information
Once safety is secured and the police have been called, exchange information with the other driver(s). Collect details such as:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license and license plate numbers
- Insurance company and policy number
- Make, model, and color of the vehicles involved
If there are witnesses, be sure to get their contact information. Witnesses can provide crucial details if there are disputes over the accident.
4. Document the Accident Scene
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including all vehicle damage, road conditions, and any other relevant details like traffic signs or skid marks. Photographs of any visible injuries can also be helpful for your case. This documentation can play a key role when filing an insurance claim or if legal issues arise.
5. Avoid Discussing Fault
Even if you think you might be partially responsible, avoid admitting fault at the scene. It’s better to let the police and insurance companies determine liability based on their investigations. Casual comments made at the scene could be used against you later.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to see a doctor as some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Prompt medical attention ensures that any injuries are properly documented, which can be critical for insurance or legal purposes.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the other driver’s information, the police report number, and any evidence you’ve gathered. Be clear and honest in your account, but avoid admitting fault.
8. Consult an Attorney if Necessary
If the accident involves serious damage or injuries, or if there are disputes over liability, it may be beneficial to consult a personal injury attorney. They can help protect your rights and guide you through any legal complexities.
Motor Vehicle Accidents Common?
Frederick, MD motor vehicle accidents are common and many people who get in them have found it beneficial to have the help of a reliable Frederick, MD motor vehicle accident lawyer.
Motor vehicle accidents are incredibly common for a number of reasons and as a result, there are a variety of ways that you may suffer from an accident.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Frederick or anyplace in MD, DC, or VA, Cohen & Cohen has a lawyer who will likely be able to give you the upper hand when managing your case. We have over 25 years of experience successfully defending the rights of motor vehicle accident victims. We will work tirelessly to make sure we have the essential elements needed to prove your accident claim.
Motor Vehicle Accidents are Commonplace
When compared to the rest of the world, the United States lags behind when it comes to the development and utilization of public transportation. Each year, there is a rise in population, meaning more of the population are driving motor vehicles from place to place each year. In 2016 alone there were more than 37,000 fatalities alone. When a driver gets behind the wheel, there is always the risk that they may be in an accident. According to the NHTSA, 94% of serious motor vehicle accidents were the result of human error.
Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Because motor vehicles are a primary means of transportation in Frederick and throughout MD, there are many ways in which a motor vehicle accident that warrants the need of a lawyer may occur. Even the most minor of accidents can produce damaging results. Here are some of the most common types of motor vehicle accidents:
- Fender Benders
- Merging Lanes
- Head on Collisions
- Side Impact Collisions
- Multi Vehicle Pile Ups
There are a number of factors that may contribute to a motor vehicle accident such as alcohol or drug use, distracted driving, inclement weather, and speeding. If you have fallen victim to a motor vehicle accident in Frederick, MD and believe that the driver who hit you was at fault, you may want to speak with a lawyer regarding your case.
Working With Cohen & Cohen
By choosing Cohen & Cohen, you will have our commitment to helping you resolve your case. Our team will put forth our resources to help you obtain the best outcome possible based on your specific situation. We are a dedicated team of professionals who will shoot straight with you. We will fully review your case and provide you with an honest assessment of the best way to move forward. In order to take action, your case will need to make up several key components that a Frederick, MD motor vehicle accident lawyer can most likely help to prove:
- The person who hit you had a duty of care
- There was a breach in the duty of care
- The accident resulted in injuries and damages
- Proof that your injuries were caused by the accident
In addition, proving your case will require that there is evidence to support your claim. We may work with you to help gather the necessary evidence to provide the insurance company with. We will present you with your options and advise you throughout the duration of your case.
Let us help you during what is likely to be a trying time in your life. Knowing that you have a compassionate and experienced Frederick, MD motor vehicle accident lawyer on your side can help to alleviate some of the stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness and being overwhelmed that you might be feeling.
Accidents can leave a lasting impact. Not only may you be struggling with your emotional and physical recovery, you may even be grieving if the accident resulted in a fatality of a loved one. Don’t attempt to manage the personal injury motor vehicle accident on your own. Cohen & Cohen can help manage your case so that you are able to take the time needed to focus on your recovery. Let us take the lead in managing your case, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.
For a highly rated Frederick, MD motor vehicle accident lawyer, contact Cohen & Cohen any time of the day or night, any day of the year.
