As you’re driving around Phoenix, the last thing on your mind is having an accident. Thus, when one occurs, you are caught off-guard. Since there will be police, paramedics, and others at the scene, confusion and bewilderment will be part of the equation. When this happens, you may unknowingly say or do something that could hinder your efforts to gain compensation for injuries and other damages. To ensure you don’t make costly mistakes, here’s what to do next after your car accident in Phoenix.
Be Treated for Your Injuries
Whether or not you think you are seriously injured, always let medical personnel assess your situation to see if you have major injuries. In many car accidents, victims often suffer concussions or internal injuries of which they are unaware, therefore thinking they are not injured and refusing medical treatment at the scene. Should you do so and later discover you were indeed injured, insurance companies will try to prove your injuries were not the result of the accident.
Use Discretion at the Accident Scene
While you will need to speak with police and others at the scene, it is still crucial you use as much discretion as possible when doing so. For example, if you simply tell the other driver “I’m sorry” during the course of conversation, they will take this to mean you just admitted the accident was your fault. Likewise, if you say this to police, they will do the same and include this in their accident report. If this happens, it will be much more difficult to win a future lawsuit.
Take Photos of the Scene
If possible, use your smartphone to take photos of the accident scene. Try to include damage to vehicles, skid marks on the road, property damage, and any visible injuries you or others suffered. By having these photos, it will be far more difficult for the other driver or witnesses to change their stories later on.
By staying calm and using good judgment each step of the way, you can consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer and gain compensation for your damages.
