1. Call for help - if you are able you should contact the authorities as
soon as possible so that medical assistance can be dispatched.
2. Assess the situation and do
whatever is necessary to protect your safety and the safety of any other
individuals in the accident. Although we would prefer that the scene is
recorded by photographs or other recording device, it is more important that
you get to safety and out of the way of traffic.
3. Call your attorney. You will
need to report the accident to your insurance company, however if possible you
should contact your attorney, prior to speaking to any insurance company. If
you are unable to reach your attorney, you should report the accident, however:
- Do not discuss what your
injuries are, you may still be going through shock and unaware of the full
extent of your injuries. Let the adjuster know that you will be going to the
doctor and the doctor will indicate the extent and nature of your injuries.
- After an accident, you may
not be as articulate explaining the intricacies of an accident. For the
purposes of reporting the accident you should be as general as possible, until
you had an opportunity to collect your thoughts.
4. Before the authorities
arrive, if you are able to do so, you should, get the information of everyone
that was involved in the accident. You should pay attention to what people say
and write it down if possible.
5. If you have a camera or if
your mobile phone is so equipped, take as many pictures at the scene as you
can. You should also pay attention to any unusual actions by the other drivers
especially if you feel that someone may be under the influence.
6. Once the police arrives,
insist that they write up a report. If you suspect that the person that hit you
was intoxicated or in some other way impaired, please let the officer know.
7. If you were not transported
by ambulance to the hospital, it is in your best interest to drive yourself (if
you are able) to a hospital or urgent care center to have a doctor examine you
for any injuries that may not be obvious.
8. If you had any bruising,
cuts, or any other disfigurement, photograph and document those injuries.
9. Follow the advice of your
doctor.
10. Follow up with your
attorney to ensure all your rights are protected.
Please remember that every
legal situation is different and therefore you should contact an attorney
regarding your specific legal issue. If you have any questions regarding the
preceding, or if you have any questions about an accident or injury case,
please feel free to our office.
Gregory A. McFarlane, Esquire can be reached at (954) 210-5571, or via email: greg@themcfarlanefirm.com