What to Do After a Car Accident?

We all know that being in a car accident is tough. Even if it’s not your fault, dealing with car repairs, medical bills, and emotional stress can be a lot to handle. This article offers some tips on how to handle this life-changing event and make sure you’re in control. A personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles can help you navigate the challenges that come with a car accident.

1. Understanding the Basics of Car Accidents

Causes:

Car accidents happen often, and they’re terrible. The sad part is that we don’t seem to learn from our mistakes. Most accidents are due to the carelessness of some drivers who don’t follow the rules and safety measures.

Common Human Behaviors Leading to Accidents

Driving way too fast
Drunk driving (when people drive after drinking alcohol)
Distracted driving (like texting while driving)
Running red lights
Not using safety gear like seat belts and helmets
Ignoring lane markings
Dangerous overtaking
Reckless driving

Studies from around the world show that these behaviors are the most common causes of accidents resulting in serious injuries or death.

2. What to Do After a Car Crash

Check for Injuries

First and foremost, make sure everyone involved is okay. It’s not just about you. Look for serious injuries, and remember, some injuries may not be visible. If someone is feeling unwell, call 911 or the emergency number your state provides.

Collect Information and Evidence

Even if the accident seems minor, collect evidence right away. Take pictures of the accident scene, any injuries, or property damage. This evidence will help support your case if another driver or the insurance company disputes your claim. Take photos of:

The accident scene
Where the cars are
Any issues with the vehicles
Property damage
Road conditions
Road signs
Any witnesses who saw the accident or what led up to it

Call Your Insurance Company

After any accident, you should contact your insurance company within 72 hours. Check your policy for any specific time limits. They might say you need to notify them within a “reasonable time.”

Consider Your Insurance Claim Options

You’ll have two options for filing a claim: first-party or third-party claims.

A first-party claim is when you file with your own insurance company. If you caused the accident, this is usually what you do.
A third-party claim is filed with the other person’s insurance company if they caused the accident. They should cover the costs if they’re at fault.

Remember, it’s important to determine the type of claim based on what happened in the accident, who’s at fault, and the insurance coverage available. If it’s your fault, you claim with your insurance. If it’s someone else’s fault, you file a claim with their insurance.

This article was written by Alla Tenina. Alla is a top slip and fall attorney Orange County CA, and the founder of Tenina Law. She has experience in bankruptcies, real estate planning, and complex tax matters. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; the ABA and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.