Road traffic accidents happen all the time – but if you have been involved in one, what should you do? Your first step, after having been in a road traffic accident, should of course be to see if everybody is all right and offer whatever medical assistance you can – even to those who are at fault. Once that is taken care of, however, there are certain important steps you should take to make sure that you are safe and will receive just compensation down the road. Knowing what to do right after a road traffic accident is very important. Here is a list of the most important steps to take after a road accident:
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Call the ambulance and the police
Even if everybody seems medically fine, and even if the other party insists on not involving the authorities – still, call the ambulance and the police. Often, serious injuries are only discovered once the shock of the accident wears off (think of whiplash) and the police needs to verify and investigate the accident as well so you have sufficient evidence at a later date.
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Exchange information
Certain information will become very important in the future, namely: the other driver’s name, address, telephone number, and other contact information, insurance details, along with the information of the car (registration number, and car make and model).
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Gather evidence
With evidence, we mean photographs and information about witnesses – and any other evidence that will later on support your claim. Take out your smart phone and start taking pictures from different angles – don’t wait for the police to do this. Also, look around and don’t be shy in approaching potential witnesses and asking for their contact information.
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Contact your insurance company and other institutions
Don’t wait too long; insurance companies tend to get suspicious if you contact them when too much time has passed. Read your insurance company policy carefully and see to what extent you are covered. It’s also possible that your policy may include coverage for legal expenses.
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Keep a diary and all receipts
There are some things that will be felt or experienced only after the initial shock of the accident has worn off. Compensation specialists like http://shireslaw.com recommend writing them down and consulting a doctor if you feel you need more medical attention than initially anticipated. Keep all receipts of consultancy fees and medicine. Keep records and receipts of transportation – of any expense directly or indirectly related to the accident or your inability or necessity to spend time and money.
Knowing which steps to take, and then performing them meticulously, may save you much headache and stress in the future, and will be a great help in receiving the compensation you deserve – this is especially true if you rely on expert help from http://shireslaw.com.
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