The Things You Need to Do After an Accident in Lakewood
Accidents are always unexpected, and they can leave you feeling lost and unsure about what to do next. If you’ve just been involved in an accident here in Lakewood, you might be wondering where to turn and what steps to take to ensure everything is handled properly.
It’s a good idea to reach out to a lawyer who specializes in handling accident cases. The top Lakewood personal injury attorneys can guide you through the process and help you understand your rights.
The following are the important steps you have to take after you’ve been involved in an accident in Lakewood.
Call the police
Dial 911 and get the police on their way. The police will come, make a report, and document what happened. This report is not just a formality. It’s a key piece of evidence for your insurance claim and if any legal issues pop up.
Never Leave the Scene
One of the most important things is to never leave the scene of the accident. It might be tempting, especially if things feel chaotic, but staying put is key. If you leave before the police get there, you could run into serious legal trouble.
Make sure to stick around, wait for the authorities, and get everything sorted out. This way, all the details are recorded, and you’re not left in a difficult position.
Check for Injuries
After making sure everyone is safe, take a moment to check if anyone is injured. Look at yourself, your passengers, and the other drivers.
Even if no one seems hurt at first, it’s important to assess the situation carefully. Some injuries don’t show up right away. If anyone’s in pain or seems unwell, call for medical help right away.
Exchange information
While waiting for the police, you should exchange information with the other drivers involved. Get their full name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, and insurance details. Also, gather the contact information of any witnesses who saw what happened.
You’ll be glad you collected all of these details when it’s time to file a claim.
Take pictures
Pictures are worth a thousand words, especially after an accident. Take as many photos as you can of the accident scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles, any injuries, and the overall area where the accident occurred.
If you’re near a recognizable spot, like the Lakewood Center Mall or a landmark in town, include that in your pictures. These photos can really help clarify what happened and support your case with the insurance company.
Call your insurance company
Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Even if the accident was minor, it’s crucial to report it right away. You’ll need to give them details like where and when the accident happened and who was involved.
In Lakewood, where traffic can get pretty hectic, it’s smart to get this call done quickly so your claim can get rolling. They’ll guide you on what to do next and help you start the process.
Get a Lawyer
If the accident involves serious damage or injuries, or if there’s a disagreement about who’s at fault, it might be a good idea to talk to a lawyer.
Hiring a lawyer is a smart move. When you’re injured, you have to deal with medical bills, lost wages, and maybe even pain and suffering.
A lawyer knows how to handle these things and can work to get you fair compensation. They can figure out how much money you should get and make sure you’re not left with unexpected costs. A lawyer will help you understand what’s happening, handle the paperwork, and represent you in court if needed.
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