Nine years ago today, David Letterman ended his legendary late-night reign. His iconic “Top Ten List” segment influenced generations of viewers. While Dave’s lists were often humorous, my top ten list is meant to be educational and is given with the benefit of over 45 years as a personal injury attorney. I sincerely hope it is helpful to you and your loved ones.
Being involved in a car crash is a traumatic experience that can leave you disoriented and overwhelmed. In the chaos of the moment, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect yourself, your passengers, and your legal rights. In this list, we’ll outline the top 10 actions you should follow immediately after a car crash.
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Being involved in a car crash is a traumatic experience that can leave you disoriented and overwhelmed. In the chaos of the moment, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect yourself, your passengers, and your legal rights. In this list, we’ll outline the top 10 actions you should follow immediately after a car crash.
Click "Read More" to continue reading.
1. PRIORITIZE SAFETY
2. GET HELP
3. EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT
4. STAY AT THE SCENE
5. GATHER INFORMATION
6. CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT
7. NOTIFY LOVED ONES
8. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
9. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
10. CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY
- Move to Safety if Possible: Turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. If your vehicle is unmovable, walk to a safe place off the side of the roadway. If you are seriously injured, do not move and wait for first responders.
2. GET HELP
- Call 911: If you are physically able, dial 911 or ask someone else to do so.
3. EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT
- Ambulance: If you are injured, or think you might be injured, let first responders transport you to hospital by ambulance.
4. STAY AT THE SCENE
- Don’t Flee: Try to stay calm. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal. Wait for first responders and law enforcement to arrive.
5. GATHER INFORMATION
- Exchange Details: Exchange information with the other driver(s). Collect their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
- Limit Conversations: Do not admit fault with other drivers or witnesses even if pressed.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant signs or signals.
- Witnesses: If there are witnesses, obtain their names and phone numbers. Their statements may be crucial later.
6. CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT
- Report the Accident: When the police arrive, provide them with accurate information about the incident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
7. NOTIFY LOVED ONES
- Call Family or Friends: Let your loved ones know about the accident.
8. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
- Visit a Healthcare Provider: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Pain or other symptoms following a car crash may be delayed by hours or even by days. Get checked by a medical professional.
- Follow Medical Advice: Your goal is a full and complete recovery from your injuries.
9. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY
- Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company promptly. Provide accurate information about the incident.
- Avoid Recorded Statements: Be cautious about recorded statements until you’ve consulted with an attorney.
10. CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY
- Legal Representation: If you were injured in the crash, seek legal counsel. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or offer you an unfair amount in settlement. An attorney can protect your rights and help you pursue full and complete compensation for all of your injuries and losses.
 | Guest Blog Entry By: Daniel A. Benjamin, Esq. Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C. 350 Bedford Street - Suite 403 Stamford, Connecticut 06901 Telephone: 203-425-8500 Facsimile: 203-425-8600 Website: www.bgtlawfirm.com |
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