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Steps to Take After a Los Angeles Auto Accident
There are certainly more than five steps to take after a Los Angeles auto accident but, here are five useful things to remember. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides that there were 3,074 traffic fatalities in the state of California during 2014. 633 of those fatalities occurred in Los Angeles County [1] alone.
If you are involved in an automobile accident, you may have injuries along with some or all of your passengers. During stressful times like this, it is difficult to remember what steps to take immediately after a collision occurs.
If you are involved in a car accident, there are several things you should do at the scene to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are some steps you can take:
Stay at the scene: If you are involved in an accident, do not leave the scene until you have exchanged information with the other driver and/or emergency responders have arrived. Leaving the scene of an accident can result in criminal charges.
Check for injuries: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance.
Move to a safe area: If possible, move your vehicle to a safe area, such as the side of the road. This can help prevent further accidents and injuries.
Exchange information: Exchange information with the other driver, including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, and driver’s license numbers. Take photos of the other driver’s license plate and vehicle, as well as the damage to both vehicles.
Contact the police: Call the police to report the accident. They will create an accident report which can be helpful later on if you need to file a claim with your insurance company.
Document the scene: Take photos of the scene, including the damage to both vehicles, any injuries, and the surrounding area. This can help provide evidence for any legal claims that arise from the accident.
Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and provide them with the information you collected at the scene.
Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor to make sure there are no underlying injuries.
It’s important to remain calm and cooperate with other drivers, police, and emergency responders at the scene. Avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be used against you later on.