Five Things To Do After an Accident
Should you have the misfortune of being involved in an auto accident, it is important that you gather information and undertake a few responsibilities.
These are the most important steps to take following a collision. Click here for a useful form that you can keep in your vehicle. This form will help you gather important information at the scene of the accident.
1. Obtain the information listed on our form:
Name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number of all drivers.
Insurance information from all the other drivers (Ins. co. name, telephone number and policy number).
License plate number and (VIN) for all other vehicles.
Name, phone number and address of any eyewitness to the collision.
2. Report the accident:
immediately to the police and cooperate with them in preparing an accident report. If no police are available to respond to the scene, consider contacting the local police agency to determine if you can complete a report at a later time. You will also need to fill out and file an SR-1 with the DMV.
to your insurance company, even if you are not at fault. If your insurance policy provides medical payments coverage and you require medical treatment because of the accident, your insurance company will provide you with information about how to use that coverage. Additionally, you may need to make a claim under your policy’s uninsured coverage (if your policy provides such coverage).
3. Photograph:
Vehicles involved in the accident. Take several photographs that clearly show any damage. Take photographs from different angles and all four sides of the vehicles. Consider keeping a disposable camera in your car for this purpose, although a cell phone that takes quality pictures will work too.
Your injuries.
4. Seek medical treatment without delay if you are injured or experiencing pain.
5. Obtain legal advice by calling Heiting & Irwin before meeting with any insurance company representative, filling out insurance documents or giving a recorded statement or medical authorization to any insurance company (even your own). You have no obligation to provide this information before you have had the opportunity to speak with an attorney. If an insurance company representative contacts you before you are prepared to discuss your claims, politely explain that you do not wish to discuss the matter at this time, and you will contact them in the very near future to discuss your claims.
We suggest that you consult with an experienced personal injury firm. Heiting & Irwin, offers free, no-obligation initial consultations. Our experienced attorneys will provide you with a thorough, thoughtful case evaluation that will help you to decide how best to proceed with your claims. Call (951) 682-6400, email or visit Heiting & Irwin for more information.
