What To Do When You Are Involved In An Automobile Collision On The Highway
Posted on: 24 October 2016
One of the most frightening things that can happen when you're driving on the highway is for you to get involved in an accident. However, it is something that might happen, so you should be prepared as to what to do. This list covers the immediate issues, such as staying safe, to the long-term issues such as dealing with insurance companies and potential lawsuits.
Get Safe
The first thing you need to do is to get safe. That means getting off the road. You should drive your car to the shoulder of the highway. Don't try to get out of your car while still in the middle of the road to inspect it. There will be cars around you traveling at high speeds. So make your way to the shoulder and then exit the vehicle.
Contact The Police
Once you are safely on the shoulder of the highway, you need to contact the police. If you don't see a highway mile marker sign nearby, then notify them of the closest exit off-ramp. The operator will contact the patrol that is assigned to the highway and they will look for your car. When the police arrive, you will give them your version of what occurred. They will take a report. You will get a copy of that report to use later with your insurance company.
Exchange Information
While you are waiting for the police to arrive, you should exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take down their license plate number, as well as a description of their car. If they don't have insurance, or don't want to give it to you because they are agitated, then wait for the police. It is not worth getting into an altercation.
Take Photos Of Damage
It's crucial that you document the extent of the damage to both cars. You need to take photos, or video, of not just your car, but also the other car. This can be used to dispute any issues that later come up.
Seek Medical Attention
Once you are safely home, you need to seek medical attention. You might feel fine after the accident, but then later develop a pain in your neck. So it's important to have a doctor examine you to see if there is any issues such as whiplash.
Contact An Auto Accident Lawyer
Finally, you should consult with an auto accident attorney. If you do have physical injuries, you will need their expertise to help you deal with the other person's insurance company. If you were lucky to avoid unscathed, you still might need to deal with the other driver who might be claiming to have suffered injuries. For more information, contact a business such as Law Office Of Andrew J Leger Jr.
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