Car accidents happen to almost everyone at some point. Regardless of whether the crash your fault or not, accidents can have long-term negative effects for you and your family. If you have an experienced Orange County car accident injury lawyer on your side, the pain and suffering you have from a car accident can be minimized.
Even before you contact an Orange County car accident injury lawyer, there are certain steps you should take as soon as you are in a car crash to make sure that you and your passengers are safe, and to preserve your rights and the evidence in case you need to go to court later.
Pull Over
No matter how minor you think the accident might be, Orange County law requires that drivers involved in a car accident to stop as soon as possible and practicable. If you are able, pull your car over to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic. Never leave the scene of an auto accident.
Take a Deep Breath
Automobile accidents are physically and emotionally draining. Sometimes, one or more of the parties is angry, accusatory or even violent. Keep calm immediately after an accident, especially if there are injuries. It does not do you any good to get hysterical or overly excited. If possible, wait for the police to arrive before talking to the other party. And never admit that you were at fault.
Call the Police and Roadside Assistance
Call the police to the scene of your accident so they may take down an accident report. Your Orange County car accident injury lawyer will want the report to help with your case. If your car is not drivable, a roadside assistance truck can tow you to a repair shop or rental car company.
Exchange Information
To handle your case, your Orange County car accident injury lawyer will need certain information. Make sure to get the other driver’s name and address, insurance company and policy number, and the make, model and license plate number of their car. If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as well.
Get Medical Attention
Of course, if you or your passenger is seriously injured, call 911 and wait for an ambulance. For minor injuries, try to see your doctor, or visit a hospital right way. You never know when a minor injury can cause a lot of pain and misery later.
Contact an Attorney
Lastly, you need to contact an experienced attorney. For a free consultation with an Orange County car accident injury lawyer, fill out and submit the form below.