Sacramento Automobile Accident Attorneys

What do I do if I've been in a car accident?

Car accidents can be scary. Even after a minor collision you may be confused or disoriented. Being prepared just in case you're in accident can eliminate some of the stress and worry associated with car crashes.

Immediate steps to follow if you've been in a car crash

• Make sure you're okay. If you've been injured, call 911 if possible.
• Exchange basic information with the other driver such as name, address, phone number and driver's license number. Do not say anything about the accident or your condition such as "I'm fine," "It was my fault," or "I wasn't paying attention."
• When the police arrive, tell them the facts of the case but avoid saying things that might be construed as guilt such as "I was in a hurry" or "I was on my cell phone."
• Gather information about the accident such as:
  • The name of the other driver and any passengers in the car. Try to get their names, addresses, phone numbers and driver's license numbers.
  • The names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses.
  • A general description of the accident scene – i.e. the location of the accident, the direction the cars were traveling, the lanes the cars were in, and your impression of how the accident occurred.
  • The weather conditions at the time of the accident.
  • The time of day of the accident.

Next Steps

After the initial information exchange has occurred, you should take time to determine the extent of your injuries and damage to your vehicle. Some injuries, such as whiplash, take a couple of weeks to present. It's important to seek the attention of a medical professional to determine the full physical impact of the accident. Further, you should also file an accident report with the police.

If you or a loved one has been in a car accident, you should also contact a dedicated and experienced California personal injury attorney to evaluate your claim and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.