If you are unlucky enough to be involved in a road accident, there are certain things you should do to make sure that everyone gets home safely. Most accidents happen because motorists fail to show care and attention. A mere moment’s inattention can lead to an accident that leaves several people injured or dead. With this safety advice, you can help break the cycle.
1) Stop The Car And Stay Safe
It is essential to stop your car as soon as possible. You should not try to move it out of any moving traffic or junction boxes, even if you think it is undamaged. Think about other motorists’ safety first rather than your own; a damaged car is a small price to pay for avoiding an accident.
2) Call The Police
You should call the police as soon as possible, especially if you have been assaulted or injured in any other way. The police may need to arrest someone and do not want to waste their time attending an unnecessary scene. They also need to identify people in the area and ensure that they are okay. It’s a good idea to get their contact number from your car insurance company.
3) Exchange Your Details
You should exchange your details with anyone you have been involved with or come across – whether or not they were hurt. If someone’s health is in doubt, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you write the time and date on the back of your insurance card.
4) Check If You Were Involved
You should check whether or not you were involved in an accident. Everyone involved will usually receive a copy of the police report – but if you have been driving the car, it is your legal obligation to report an accident.
5) Get The Details Of Anyone Involved
You should get all of the details of anyone involved in an accident with you – including any witnesses. This includes the names and addresses of those involved and their insurance details, phone number, and registration number.
6) Use A Dashcam
A dash cam can be a big help in an accident – it will record everything that happens before, during, and after the accident. The footage makes it easier to see if the accident was your fault or not – which is essential for insurance purposes. It can also help you resolve any disputes, especially if there are no witnesses to the accident.
7) Take Photographs And Video Footage
It’s best to take photographs and video footage at the scene of an accident. This ensures that you have evidence of what happened – and can be used for insurance purposes. Unfortunately, some drivers don’t take pictures.
8) Claim Against The Driver
In most cases, you will be able to claim against the driver(s) involved in the accident. If you cannot claim against anyone, you are entitled to claim through your insurance company. The number of people involved makes no difference – but it is important to submit claims as soon as possible, and if you are at all stuck with the process, then do not do this on your own, always enlist the help of a professional Tampa car accident lawyer (or one in an area closer to you) to make sure the process is as smooth as possible, and you get the best outcome.
9) Get Expert Advice
You should get expert advice if you’re injured in an accident. For example if you ride a motorcycle, It’s best to speak with motorcycle accident lawyers, especially if you have not received any medical attention. They will tell you about your rights and could help you claim compensation for your injuries.
10) Follow The Law
You should know that it is an offense to leave the scene of an accident without making sure everyone involved is safe.
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