6 Steps to Take if You Have Been in a Car Accident

Could this day possibly get worse? You were involved in a car accident, and now you have to go through the process of filing police reports and reporting your claim to the insurance company. The best thing you can do is not panic and follow the correct legal protocols to resolve the situation. Here is some tried and true advice from our car accident attorneys in San Diego that you should keep in mind:

1. Assess Your Injuries

Safety is your first priority. If you or anyone involved in the accident is hurt, you should seek medical attention immediately. If needed, call 9-1-1 for emergency medical care at the scene of the collision.

2. Gather and Exchange Information

Exchange information with the other drivers involved. Take note of everyone’s name, address and phone number (including passengers). Record the other car’s make, model, license plate and location of the damage. Get the name of the driver’s insurance company and policy number. Something that our personal injury attorneys always recommend is to take a picture of the other driver’s insurance car to ensure that you have the correct information. Next and if possible, look around for any witnesses and politely ask for any relevant information they can offer.

3. Document the Scene

Take pictures of the vehicles and any objects that come in contact with your vehicle. This includes street signs, curbs, bushes, and any other traffic fixtures. Also, take pictures of the area where the accident occurred and step back to include any possible landmarks in your photos as well. Document the damage on both vehicles. Don’t leave any stone unturned – make sure you are collecting all the information and evidence that’s available.

4. File a Police Report

All accidents must be reported, and an accident report is essential when it comes to filing an insurance claim. When speaking to the police, be sure to include all facts and do your best to explain your side of the story. The officers will document the accident and other details.. The report may not be available for several days, so be sure to record the officer’s name, contact information and badge number.

5. Removing the Vehicles

If either vehicle has become disabled and deemed unsafe to drive due to the accident, be sure to record the name of the towing company and the destination of the vehicle. It may be going to a mechanic shop, the tow company’s yard, or another location. If your vehicle is able to drive, be sure to wait until the police officer tells you to move it. If the accident is impeding traffic or is in an unsafe spot, the officer may tell you to move your vehicle before taking down your information. It is imperative to follow their directions and navigate the scene of the accident as safely as you can.

6. Filing an Insurance Claim and Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

Before filing a claim, contact your car accident lawyer in San Diego and consult with them about your legal options moving forward. We understand that you want to receive compensation immediately. However, waiting to hire a personal injury attorney in San Diego may impact the success of your claim. Insurance companies may handle your claim differently if you file without the assistance of an attorney.

Book a Time to Speak with Our Car Accident Attorneys in San Diego

Contact HHJ Trial Attorneys today for a free consultation. Our car accident attorneys in San Diego believe in the philosophy to fight with passion and dedication, as if every client we serve is a part of our own family. Through our unique approach, we assign the right personal injury attorney to each case, giving our clients the chance to recover the maximum amount of compensation. The HHJ Trial Attorneys team is going to fight for you every step of the way. Get in touch with us today.

Testimonial from Dylan, Car Accident Victim

When my family was affected by an auto accident, I reached out to HHJ Trial Attorneys. I learned they were highly recommended and respected amongst their peers. HHJ treated my family as their own from the very beginning. From start to finish they maintained constant communication with us and ensured we were in good care. I don’t wish anyone ever has to experience a hardship of which attorneys are needed, but if you do I strongly encourage you to call HHJ. Special thanks to Mike Hernandez and Shelby Cardoza for being there for my family when we needed it most. True professionals.