According to the Insurance Information Institute, the lifetime chances of dying in a motor vehicle collision are approximately 1 in 645. Fortunately, most car accidents are not fatal. When you look at the lifetime chances of sustaining injuries, though, the odds are significantly higher.
In fact, getting in a car crash at some point is essentially inevitable for the average American. Forbes reports that motorists can expect to file a collision claim with their insurance provider once every 18 years.
Since accidents are so common, it is wise to review what you should do in the event that one occurs. If you want to file a successful personal injury claim regarding the incident, there are essential steps that you need to take before even leaving the scene.
Of course, not all accident victims are physically capable of exchanging insurance information or photographing the scene from all angles. If you were in a crash and sustained injuries that required emergency medical care, you may be wondering how to go about building a claim now that your health has stabilized.
To discuss your case with a car wreck attorney in Irvine and determine the best way to proceed, contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C. Our team is devoted to helping clients secure the compensation they deserve, and we are proud of our high win rate. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a case evaluation.
Read on to learn what you should do immediately following a collision:
- Call the Police
In the state of California, motorists must report accidents that result in injury or death. Since adrenaline can mask the symptoms of serious injuries, it is wise to call police even if you feel fine following a collision. If it turns out you did get hurt, having an official police report from the scene will serve to strengthen your claim if it shows that the other driver was in fact at fault for the collision.
- Photograph the Site
If there is a camera on your phone, take pictures of the scene while waiting for police to arrive. Make sure you stay a safe distance from any moving traffic, though, so you do not sustain additional injuries. Once police arrive and start directing traffic, you can shoot the scene from various angles and depths.
- Exchange Information
Get the names and insurance information of any other motorists involved. Look for any witnesses who might have seen the crash, and get their contact information, as well
- Visit Your Doctor
If responders do not administer emergency medical care at the scene, visit an urgent care center or make an appointment with your primary care provider. You do not want to postpone seeking medical care because if you wait too long, the opposing party may argue that you did not actually sustain your injuries in the accident.
Once you have addressed any pressing health concerns and are ready to start building your claim, contact the Law Office of Joel W. Baruch, P.C. Call 949-864-9662 to schedule a consultation with a car accident lawyer in Irvine. If you want to learn more about personal injury claims in California, visit the USAttorneys website.