What to Do if You’re Hurt in a Distracted Driving Accident
Being involved in a distracted driving accident can be traumatic and overwhelming. It's crucial to know the steps to take immediately following the incident to protect your health, rights, and legal interests. Distracted driving behaviors, such as texting or eating, have become a leading cause of road accidents globally.
If you find yourself to be a victim of such negligence, follow these essential steps to ensure your safety and prepare for any legal actions.
Ensure Your Safety and Assess Injuries
First and foremost, prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved after an accident. If you're able to, try to move to a safe location away from traffic. Assess yourself and others for injuries. Even if you don't feel immediate pain, injuries from car accidents can manifest hours or days later. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately following the accident.
Call the Police and File a Report
It is absolutely essential to call the police to the scene of an accident, no matter how minor or severe it may seem. Having a police report acts as an impartial third-party account of the incident, which becomes invaluable when dealing with insurance companies or in situations where legal action might become necessary. The report provides a factual and unbiased record of events, which can help to clearly establish the circumstances of the accident. Additionally, it's important to ensure that you obtain a copy of the police report for your personal records. This document can be critical in securing your claims and protecting your rights in the aftermath of the accident.
Exchange Information and Gather Evidence
While waiting for the police, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Do not discuss fault or make statements about the accident, other than to law enforcement. Use your smartphone to take photos of the scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damages, road conditions, and traffic signs. If there were witnesses, politely ask for their contact information as well.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with the information you've gathered and the police report. Be honest about the incident details, but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the accident specifics.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel uninjured, it's crucial to promptly seek medical attention after any vehicular accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can cause severe issues in the future if left untreated. Follow all recommended treatments and keep records of any medical expenses incurred due to the accident.
Consult an Attorney
If you have sustained injuries in a distracted driving incident, it is vital to seek advice from a personal injury lawyer. They can advise you on your legal rights and options, including seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney will also be able to handle communication and negotiations with insurance companies.
Being involved in a distracted driving accident can be an overwhelming, stressful, and utterly confusing experience. However, by adhering to a few essential steps, you can effectively prioritize your safety and ensure you're protected legally. It's crucial to remain calm and focused during such incidents to manage the situation effectively. Moreover, always prioritize safe driving practices in your daily life to minimize the risk of such incidents.
Contact Bowers Fawcett & Hurst, LLC. today, if you need an attorney to help you fight your distracted driving case. Our experienced lawyers will provide you with personalized legal advice and guidance to help you navigate through this complex process. We understand the challenges faced by individuals involved in distracted driving accidents, and we are committed to fighting for your rights and obtaining fair compensation for any damages incurred.
