Car accidents are unexpected but inevitable events. Just like what happened in the recent Las Vegas car accident, car accidents are not how they are typically portrayed in movies. In reality, car accidents are messy and involve human lives. Unlike in movies, there are many important things that one should and should not do during and after enduring a car accident.
Don’t Do These Things
- Don’t leave the accident scene.
This applies to all parties involved in the car accident. Whether the party is the victim or the guilty one, no one must leave the accident scene. Wait for the help to arrive. Even if the victims will feel no manifested pain or injuries from the crash, it’s advisable not to leave the scene yet.
- Don’t pre-empt testimonies.
Even the guilty ones should not pre-empt giving their testimonies until the appropriate authorities have arrived. Remember that anything said during and after the situation could worsen the damages more. Wait for the attorney or the police to arrive before discussing any facts relevant to the accident.
- Don’t negotiate and settle.
Remember this important tip during a car accident. Should the party guilty of the accident offer to negotiate and settle the damages done? No. Most settlements are way lower than the actual pecuniary damages plus the mental anguish caused by the car accident. Wait for an attorney to discuss the legal implications caused by the accident, including claims from the accused, possible damages due to negligence, and claims from the insuring company.
- Don’t move or alter evidences.
In any court or tribunal, the evidences presented matter. That is why those involved in car accidents must refrain from moving or even altering evidences until the appropriate authorities and investigators arrive. Moving or altering evidences like the position of the cars or the damages to the road or pavements can make or break any pleading for claims on damages.
Do These Things
- Call for the police.
Although there are some accidents that do not involve the police, it is best to call one for purposes of proper documentation of the incident. The police report is a very admissible evidence in the court and can go far during trials or hearings on cases for claims and damages. The police report can also document or drive any further investigation for any foul play or negligence involved arising to the car accident.
- Seek medical help.
This is common sense. Even if both parties seem fine, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as the accident occurred. The medical reports can also be used in the investigation.
- Look for witnesses.
When able, those involved in the car accident must secure the witnesses who may help in corroborating the facts of the incident. True enough, the witnesses present during the crash most likely have another perspective on the reasons and causes of the accident.
- Take pictures.
Pictures of the actual accident scene can help a lot in identifying the real cause of the accident. Take pictures before the cars involved are towed.
- Get a counsel.
Lastly, get an attorney to help get through the intricacies of the accident’s ensuing consequences like seeking reimbursement for hospital expenses, claims from insurance companies, and pecuniary damages for other injuries sustained.
Conclusion
Getting into an accident could be a life and death event. It’s important to know what to do and what not to do during and after the accident for health and legal purposes.
