Auto Accident - Procedures to Follow
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Stop immediately
Stay calm and do what you can within reason to avoid blocking traffic. Never leave the scene of a California auto accident in which you or your car was involved, no matter how slight the collision. Pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible without endangering any other person and without obstructing traffic. -
Check to see if anyone is injured
Take care of any person that is injured, including rendering medical attention as soon as possible. Contact 911 or any other ambulance service in order to receive medical treatment. Do not assume that a lack of an obvious injury means that a person is not hurt. -
Call the police
A California auto accident should be reported to the proper authorities. The report may not only be helpful if you determine that you are injured or there is damage to your car, but it may also be helpful later if the other person tries to avoid responsibility for the accident. -
Don't Sign
If an insurance adjuster shows up at the scene, don't give any statements and don't sign anything. -
Gather Information
If possible get the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses. Make a mental note of what witnesses say, such as, "that black car was flying." -
Visit your doctor
Even if you are not sure whether or not you are injured or anyone else in your vehicle was injured in the accident, it is best to be examined by a doctor at the earliest possible time or to go to the nearest emergency room. When a doctor examines you, make sure that you are specific in explaining to the physician how the accident happened and all injuries and problems you sustained as a result. -
Inform your insurance company
Make sure that you call your insurance company immediately to report the accident. Failing to report the accident immediately could in some instances result in the insurance company not covering you for the accident. You should contact the company immediately, and make sure that you ask the company to start paying your bills. This action should open up a file to not only pay the property damage but also all of your medical bills if you are injured. -
Call the offices of Berg Injury Lawyers immediately
Before signing any statements, consult a California auto accident lawyer that specializes in helping those who have been injured in auto accidents. At Berg Injury Lawyers we have helped thousands of clients get the money they deserve for their injuries.
Free Consultation
Have you or someone you care about been injured in an auto accident? We have offices located in Alameda, Modesto, Sacramento, Fresno, San Francisco and San Jose, making us uniquely situated to advocate for clients across the entire state of California. Complete a FREE Consultation Form online or call us today.
