If you have been injured by the negligent, reckless, or intentional behavior of another person or company, you are entitled to full compensation. You must, however, take immediate action to insure that your side of the story is preserved.
(1) Obtain the full name, home and business addresses and home and business telephone numbers of all persons, involved in the accident. Confirm the information provided by asking to see the other persons’ drivers’ license.
(2) Immediately notify the police or any other investigative agency so that a proper investigation is conducted. Make sure to get the investigating officer’s name and badge number. Also, ask for an incident or accident report number.
(3) Obtain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of all witnesses to the accident. Do not depend on others, such as the police, to gather this information.
(4) If you can, take photographs at the scene of the accident, including the location of the accident, any vehicles and objects involved, all marks on the roadway, and any other matter that seem important. Remember “a picture is worth a thousand words” and this is your only opportunity to get these photographs.
(5) Report all injuries and pain, no matter how minor, to police, fire department, EMS, hospital or emergency clinic personnel. What may seem minor, may very well be a sign of significant injury.
(6) As soon as practical, take photographs of your injuries.
(7) Finally, the most effective way to protect your rights after an accident is to immediately consult with an attorney. Representatives of insurance companies will probably be attempting to contact you, but you should not talk with them until you have talked with your attorney.
For a free consultation, contact us at (512) LAW-FIRM (529-3476). We are available 24/7 to provide help.
