Car accidents are disorientating and stressful. Oftentimes, the moments after an accident are a blur, and time seems to speed up. Hopefully, any accident you may be involved in is not so significant that you are unable to take action immediately after.
If you are involved in a car accident in Connecticut, understanding what to do in the immediate aftermath is essential. In this article, we will outline the steps you should take after a collision, including speaking with a Connecticut car accident lawyer, to ensure your safety and safeguard your interests.
1. Remain on the Scene
After a car collision, the first and most crucial thing to do is to remain at the scene until the police show up. In Connecticut, it is illegal to flee the scene of an accident, no matter how small it may be.
If you leave the scene of an accident, then it may be considered a “hit and run.” You could be charged with a crime that includes paying penalties and possibly going to jail if you are in an accident and flee the scene.
Also, remember that Connecticut requires drivers to exchange information before leaving an accident scene. This is crucial if police are not called or you are not in a safe place to stop. Getting the right information will ensure that you can preserve any personal injury claim.
2. Call 911
Calling the police is a good idea, even if the collision is minor. In the event that you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action, they will produce a report that will be useful. Give the police your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information when they show up.
Make sure to give the police this information as soon as possible if you don’t have it. Important information about the accident will be contained in the police report, including the date, time, and location of the collision,
An accident summary or police report will also include the names and contact information of the drivers involved, their insurance information, and any witness statements. If you need to file a lawsuit or an insurance claim, this report can be useful in supporting your case.
3. Verify Any Injuries
Making sure you and any other people in your car are secure and unharmed after a collision should be your top priority. Examine your body for any wounds, and even if you’re unsure whether you’ve been hurt, get medical help.
Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, might not be obvious immediately, but if they are not addressed, they can have major long-term implications. If anyone is hurt inside your car, dial 911 right away. Make a second 911 call if someone is hurt in another vehicle.
It is still advisable to get medical help as soon as you can, even if there are no obvious injuries. A medical professional can examine you and decide whether you have any wounds that need to be treated.
4. Get the Other Driver’s Information, and the Names of Any Potential Witnesses
After ensuring everyone is secure, trade contact details with the other driver(s) involved in the collision. Obtain their name, address, insurance details, and license plate number.
Obtain the contact information of any witnesses to the accident as well. Witness testimony might help you establish liability and support your case.
5. Take Photos and Video, If Possible
Take pictures of the scene, including any damage to your car, any other involved cars, and any other wrecked property. Additionally, you ought to take pictures of any wounds you or your passengers may have received.
Take pictures of the accident from several angles and distances, if you can, to give a complete picture of the scene. Ask a witness or bystander to record the scene for you if you are unable to do so yourself for any reason.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in an accident, then consider calling an experienced personal injury attorney. Oftentimes, a good Connecticut personal injury lawyer will be able to recover more for you than you might be able to do on your own.
If you’d like to speak with the personal injury attorneys at Injuredct.com, then call 855.CT.Legal.