In order to receive a driver’s license, people are taught how to operate a vehicle safely. This is to avoid causing a car accident. However, the unfortunate reality is that these accidents still happen. It is because of this that it is crucial for a person to know what to do if they find themselves in this situation. While this knowledge cannot avoid car accidents, it can help people handle them properly.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
There are numerous ways a car accident can happen. Sometimes, they may be out of a person’s control. This may be due to weather conditions, road conditions, poor road designs, or defective car parts. However, one of the most common causes of car accidents is driver negligence. The following actions are examples of driver negligence:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Eating and driving
- Using electronic devices while driving
- Failing to yield
- Unsafe changing lanes
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Disregarding traffic directions
- Ignoring the rules of the road
What Should I Do After an Accident?
After an accident occurs, it is important to stay calm. While the scene of an accident can be chaotic, keeping your head on straight allows you to handle the situation at hand. The first thing you should do after an accident is to contact the proper emergency services. It is important to call law enforcement even if the other party involved in the accident tells you otherwise. This is because they can direct traffic around the scene of the accident, keeping you and others from any more harm. In addition to this, they can draft an official police report containing all of the information about the accident. However, you should still document the necessary information as well. This includes the other party’s names, contact information, car insurance information, and any witness information.
It can be beneficial to walk about the scene of an accident, as long as it is safe to do so, to gather photo documentation of the wreckage. This can be used later on for a claim. It is also important to seek medical attention after an accident. While emergency responders may conduct examinations on the scene, you should also seek further medical attention. This is because while you may feel fine, accidents can manifest at a later time without you realizing.
Recovering Compensation
Many victims of an accident caused by negligence wish to hold the other party responsible for their actions. This can be done with a personal injury lawsuit. During this, the injured party must prove the other party’s behavior directly caused the accident and their injuries. This can be done with evidence such as medical documentation of the injuries, photos of the wreck, witness statements, and more. If they are successful in doing so, they may be eligible to recover significant financial compensation. This exists as coverage for any damages that stem from the accident. However, it is important to know that there is a 2-year statute of limitations on filing a personal injury claim. This means you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file or you may be denied the right to compensation.
Contact our Firm
If you or a family member have been injured in a car accident, contact Lloyd J. Eisenberg & Associates today.
