If you are involved in a car accident, it is important to determine as soon as possible who caused the collision. In some cases, it can be hard to know for sure who is at fault. For example, maybe bad weather led to the accident. The following things should be done to obtain a factual account of the car crash.
Call the Police
Contact the local law enforcement agency to file an accident report. An officer will come to the site of the accident and objectively collect both drivers’ accounts of the crash. Typically, all involved vehicles may be photographed, and passengers or other witnesses may be interviewed. The police report will detail the location of the accident, along with weather conditions, road type, and other contributing factors. The report will then be filed with the agency and posted publicly within a few days.
Get a Medical Exam
If you are injured or if the collision caused an old injury to flare up, call 911 for transport to a nearby emergency room or call your doctor to schedule a medical evaluation. Even minor scrapes or bumps should be assessed, as they might indicate the driver’s actions or response to the driving of another person, which may help to clarify who caused the accident.
Identify Witnesses
In addition to people the police officer talked to as potential witnesses to the accident, ask others who knew your whereabouts before the incident if they can verify your location and behavior as well as your regular driving habits. This information may be helpful if the other driver or an attorney tries to accuse you of driving under the influence or having a disruptive reaction to medication that you take. Collect as much objective and relevant information as you can. Even if it is not all needed, it will be helpful to keep it on hand until the accident damages are legally resolved.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney
Contact an auto accident attorney for information and advice about the best way to manage a car crash insurance claim or legal case. The attorney can advise you of timelines and requirements associated with a car collision court case. You can find out what to do, and when, in order to comply legally and protect your rights.
Car accidents should be processed effectively to determine who is at fault and what damages, if any, should be paid to the innocent driver. Collect accurate and detailed information that can help you make clear decisions on these important matters.
Author information: Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor-related. She was raised in a big family, so she’s used to putting things to a vote. Also, cartwheels are her specialty. You can connect with Anica here.
