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What to Do After a Car Accident Checklist

Frank • November 9, 2011
Rescuers on Car Accident — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers

Read the blog from Frank Penney Injury Lawyers in Roseville, CA below. 


Clients are typically unsure of what to do if they get into a car accident. If you do get into an accident and are injured, mistakes along the way can make it difficult for a car accident lawyer to help get you the justice you deserve. Here are some helpful tips to make it clear what you should and shouldn’t do if you get into a car accident.

Parties

Gather information about each person involved in the accident. Get each person’s name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and date of birth. Notate the description of each person, i.e., what they are wearing, approximate height, weight, etc. If a party refuses to cooperate, then wait for the police to arrive. If the other party attempts to leave the scene, record their vehicle’s license plate number, i.e., write it down or take a photograph of the plate on your camera or cell phone. You may also use a voice recorder on your cell phone to gather this information.

Vehicles

Gather information about each vehicle. Write down the color, make and model of each vehicle. Take photographs of each vehicle using your camera or cell phone. Write down each vehicle’s license plate number. This is needed in case a driver attempts to leave the scene or gives you false information.

Insurance

Gather information about the parties’ vehicle insurance. Write down the name, address, and telephone numbers for all insurance companies. Note the policy numbers and the agent information as well. Have the driver show you his/her proof of insurance card. Take a photo of the card using your camera or cell phone. If the adverse party refuses to cooperate, then wait for the police to arrive.

Witnesses

Gather information about each witness, i.e., name, address, and all telephone numbers. Do not be shy! Contact any bystanders that may have seen the accident and get their information. These witnesses can be critical in the prosecution of your case.

Scene

Gather information about the scene. The best way to do this is to take photographs of the scene and any important objects on your camera or cell phone. Take photographs of any debris on the roadway or broken objects (be sure to do this safely). You can also draw the accident on a piece of paper or a Car Accident Information Form diagram (will provide this form in the future). This drawing allows you to note and label the positions of the vehicles, the direction they were traveling, and any traffic control devices, such as stop signs or traffic lights.

Checklist

  • Get immediate medical attention for anyone that may be injured. Tell the police officer about these injuries.
  • Call the police
  • Exchange information with all drivers
  • Get passenger and witness information
  • Take photos of the scene and vehicles with a camera or cell phone, preferably before the vehicles are moved from the roadway
  • Take all personal belongings from your vehicle before it is towed
  • Diagram the accident scene
  • ONLY discuss the accident with the police, NOT the parties
  • Do not speak to the other party’s insurance company until you have consulted with a qualified personal injury attorney
  • Do not sign anything from an insurance company until you have consulted with a qualified personal injury attorney
  • Talk to a qualified personal injury lawyer in your area. Call us toll-free for a free consultation (888) 873-6639 or email us at info@penneylaw.com.

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Our legal team understands that life can be very stressful after an accident of any type. The financial costs of your accident can add to that stress. When you are asking for help, this should make your life easier – not more difficult. That is why you do not have to worry about any upfront legal fees and expenses when you hire Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to handle your California personal injury case.


At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.


This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

When I first contacted the Law Offices of Frank D. Penney after my accident, I was frustrated with car insurance companies, and medical insurance companies; after all, I was in pain. He and his staff put me at ease instantly! It was such a relief to have someone working on MY BEHALF! They were able to settle my case for more than I initially thought it was worth. THANKS AGAIN!!!


- KRISTA H.


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