Dallas car accident cases sure have changed over the years. Therefore, what you do, and what you don’t do, at the accident scene can drastically effect your case.
Most Importantly, Don’t Panic
The worst thing you can do after an accident is panic. You will just say things you shouldn’t say and do things you shouldn’t do. These issues drastically hurt many car accident cases. Stay calm and assess the situation.
If you are Injured, Call 9-1-1.
Sounds simple, right. Well, the most important thing is to make sure you get the proper medical care. If you believe you are injured, then do not hesitate to call for medical help.
But, don’t just jump into an ambulance and run off to an emergency room unless you believe you are seriously injured. Sometimes, involving emergency rooms and hospitals may be unnecessarily too expensive and can complicate your injury case.
Just make the best decision for your situation.
Don’t Apologize.
Even if you think the accident is your fault, don’t admit it. And don’t apologize. Because a simple apology can be mistaken as an admission of fault.
The best thing to do is stay clam and just be cordial and polite.
Exchange Information.
The drivers are required to exchange the proper information at the accident scene. They are required to exchange the names of the drivers, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information. Just getting the insurance information is not enough.
If the other driver refuses to exchange information, call 9-1-1, and request that a police officer come to scene. The police officer will help in the exchange of information between the drivers. Sometimes, the 9-1-1 operator will get on the phone with the other driver and demand that information be exchanged.
Do Not Discuss the Accident At All.
Sometimes the other driver will try to coax you into discussing the accident hoping you will say something incriminating. The other driver may even be recording the conversation on their phone without you knowing. One time, I had a case where the other driver actually signed a handwritten statement at the scene admitting fault. (Good for me, but not for him).
If the other driver starts engaging you into a discussion about the accident, just politely say that the issue would be better handled through the insurance companies.
Don’t get caught up in some heated debate about how the accident happened or who is at fault. That will accomplish nothing and can only lead to a volatile, and possibly violent, situation.
Get Witness Information.
One of the most important things you can do at an accident scene is to get the names and telephone numbers of any witnesses. Most people will not stop at an accident scene, but if you are lucky enough to have someone stop, get their information.
Dallas Car Accident Lawyer
Robert C. Slim has been representing victims of car accidents in the Dallas ares since 1994. Not every accident results in an injury. But if you are injured in a car accident, get the advice of an experienced and proven car accident lawyer. The consultation is always free, and there are never any attorney’s fees until you collect on your case.