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Car accidents happen all the time. Even the most seasoned drivers get involved in collisions on the road. If you or someone you love is involved in a car accident, you should find car accident personal injury lawyer who will help you seek justice. Statistics show that one in three people in California is involved in injuries or dies in a car accident. This is the reason you should know your rights in the event that you are involved in an auto accident.
The Steps You Should Take When Involved in a Car Accident
The moments after an auto accident are very critical. Your first reaction after a car accident will determine whether or not you get justice. The following steps will ensure you protect your legal rights in the event of a car accident:
Do not leave the scene of the accident: You should try at all costs to stay at the scene of the accident until the law enforcement agencies arrive. Leaving the scene of the accident might subject you to hit and run charges.
Check whether there is anyone injured: It is good to check the condition of passengers, motorists, and yourself so you can secure medical attention for those who are injured and perform first aid for anyone who may be injured.
Reach out to the police: In incidences where there is an injury, death, or damage of property, it is advisable to contact the police. You should file an accident report and get the contact information of all the law enforcement officials who come to the scene of the accident.
Exchange information with all those involved: Speak to passengers and motorists who are involved in the accident. Jot down the names, contact information, insurance details, and license numbers of all those involved in the accident. Do not admit guilt, apologize, or use abusive language. Remember that anything you say may be used against you in court.
Speak to witnesses: Speak to all the witnesses present at the scene of the accident. Exchange contact information with the witnesses. Note their version of all that happened during the collision. Their statements will be helpful in your claim for damages.
Take photographs: Photographic evidence is admissible as proof in court during car accident cases. Take photos of the scene of the accident, photos of the damaged parts of your car. You should also have pictures of your car before the accident to help prove the condition of your vehicle.
Be discrete: You should be careful when discussing any details regarding the accident. You should not engage the law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, or any other person without the presence of your lawyer. It is very easy to perjure yourself when you are emotionally excited or in shock after an accident. Call up car injury law firms and do not talk to anyone in the absence of a qualified and experienced lawyer.
Document damages and any injuries sustained: Make notes of all your experiences after an accident. Also, be keen on the medical professional’s diagnosis. Take stock of any losses you have experienced from economical losses to missed work and any other inconveniences you have to face because of the accident.
What are the Major Causes of Car Accidents
The major factors that contribute to vehicular accidents include:
- Excessive speed
- Driver distraction
- Cell phone use
- Illegal turns
- Failure to heed to road signs and stop lights
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Wrong way driving
Types of Car Accident Injuries
Some of the common injuries arising from automobile accidents include:
- Bone fractures
- Shoulder injuries
- Whiplash
- Spinal injuries in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Concussions
- Brain injuries
How Can a Lawyer Help in the Event Of a Car Accident
Hiring a car accident personal injury lawyer in the event of a car accident will work towards your advantage. In the first place, your lawyer will arrive at the scene of the crime and collect all the necessary evidence to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also keep you from committing perjury by dealing with law enforcement agencies and insurance agents.
An auto injury lawyer is skilled in questioning material witnesses. He/she will be able to gather all the necessary word of mouth proof that will help you seek damages from the at fault person.
The main stages of any personal injury case involve gathering evidence, disclosure among the parties involved, settlement negotiations, and trial. Car injury law firms play a crucial role in all of these stages. They will be able to discern the information that will help build a strong case for you. Additionally, they will play a significant role during settlement negotiations. They will advise you on what is fair or not. In case settlement negotiations fail, your lawyer will represent you in court during trial. This is one of the most crucial phases of a personal injury case because it is at this point that the court will rule on the damages that will be awarded. Your auto injury lawyer will combine their skill, experience, and the available information to ensure you receive a reasonable damage award.
What Types of Damages are Awarded in Personal Injury Claims
Depending on the extent of your injuries and the court’s evaluation of what will redeem you to your former status, you may be entitled to any or a combination of the following damages:
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Loss of family or marital relations
- Emotional distress
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Rehabilitation costs
Personal injury claims involving car accidents can be tricky. Without the presence of legal representation, you are likely to lose your claim for damages. You should follow the above steps to ensure your case is strong enough to warrant compensation. Additionally, do not discount the importance of a lawyer since with their help you have a high chance of getting a fair damage award.
