Any time you get behind the wheel, you are at risk for a car accident. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, every year there are approximately 10 million car accidents on U.S. roads and highways. The good news is that most of these crashes are relatively minor and would be characterized as no more than a fender bender. However, this does not mean that they are not frightening experiences for the motorists involved. There are a few steps drivers should remember to help them in the event of an accident.
If you have been in a car accident, the first thing you should do is to take a deep breath and try to stay calm. No matter how scary or upsetting the situation is, staying calm will be your best defense against it becoming worse. Remember that accidents happen all the time and that very rarely are they intentional.
Next you should call the police. This important and necessary step is often avoided by drivers who think a minor accident doesn’t require police involvement or who worry about being ticketed. The truth is that police officers are able to document the accident and provide a police report, which will prove handy should you need to file an insurance or legal claim.
Be sure to exchange information with the other driver. This information includes names, phone numbers, addresses and insurance. Even if you don’t think you will need to file a claim, it is always a smart and safe step to at least gather the necessary information in case the damage is worse than you initially thought. Sometimes it can take hours or even days for personal injuries and car damage to fully present.
Finally, contact an attorney as soon as possible. A legal professional will be able to help you through the process and determine fault in your accident. To learn more, meet with a skilled personal injury lawyer at Lanier Law Group, P.A. in North Carolina.