Tucson Car Accident Lawyers
Casa Grande Auto Accident Injury Attorney
Sooner or later, nearly everyone who drives a car will be involved in some type of car accident. Whether it's a fender bender or a major highway wreck, it is important to know what to do in the first moments after the crash.
The actions you take — or fail to take — in the first 15 minutes after your accident can have a huge impact on whether you will be able to collect damages in an auto accident injury claim.
Following are some tips from the attorneys of Kinerk, Schmidt & Sethi, PLLC, a Tucson law firm that has been representing clients injured in car accidents for decades.
1. Dial 911. Tell the 911 operator if you suspect anyone is injured, even if the injuries are minor. Do not move anyone who is seriously injured. If an ambulance or paramedics arrive on the scene, do not refuse treatment. If you do, you may jeopardize any future legal claim.
2. Be Careful What You Say. You are obligated to exchange insurance information and driver's license numbers with the other party, but do not volunteer any other information. Remember, anything you say at the scene of the accident can be used against you in court. Don't admit fault. Don't discuss the damages to yourself or your car. Do not admit to anything you did or did not do, see or hear. And don't argue with the other party.
3. Take Notes. While you should limit what you say, write down as much information as you can about the other parties and what they have to say about the car accident: Record names, phone numbers, insurance companies, driver's license numbers, plate numbers, extent of injury or damage to their vehicles, time of day, speed, seat belt use, weather conditions.
4. Take Photos. Photograph your car, inside and out, and the other cars involved in the accident. Take pictures of any marks on the road, debris, and any obvious injuries.
5. Wait for the Police to Arrive. Don't excuse the other driver or witnesses. Tell them they could be found guilty of leaving the scene of an accident if they leave before the police arrive.
6. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company as Soon as Possible.
7. Contact Kinerk, Schmidt & Sethi, PLLC to discuss your rights and options with an experienced Tucson car accident lawyer. The consultation is free of charge and there is no obligation to hire us.
