Bilal SajjadWhile vacations are meant to ease your worries and leave the stresses of the world behind, it does not mean you are exempt from personal injuries. Unfortunately, there are many ways in which you can become injured on vacation. While you try to enjoy yourself and let your guard down, you may increase the chances of slip and fall accidents, recreational accidents, and more. However, the most common cause of personal injuries while travelling is a car accident.
Car accidents can happen anywhere
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Wherever there is a road, there is a chance of a car accident. Car accidents can happen at any time, and at any place, especially when you least expect it. While the idea of a car accident may never cross your mind, it is important to always be prepared and understand exactly what to do in case you are involved in one. In addition, understanding how to handle a car collision will help you get back on your feet and possibly back to the beach.
So, if you are planning a vacation, here are car accident legal tips you need to know in case you find yourself a victim of a car accident.
1. Don’t leave the scene
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Regardless of the severity of the car accident, it is essential to never leave the scene. In most states, leaving the scene of an accident can result in pricey penalties and even criminal charges. For example, if you are visiting the Jersey shore and leave the scene of an accident, you can end up with fines between US$200-US$15,000 and could possibly face up to five years in prison.
2. Check yourself and others for injuries
If you are involved in an accident and find yourself injured, call 911 immediately. However, if you are unable to move, it is important to stay put and wait for emergency personnel. Odds are someone else witnessed the accident and will call 911 for you. At the same time, if you are not injured, check on the other party to make sure they are okay as well.
3. Always call 911
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Whether you are involved in a small fender-bender or a major accident, it is essential to call emergency personnel. Not only will they ensure everyone in both parties is okay, but they will fill out an extensive accident report to document the scene. It is also important to speak with the officers to ensure they develop an accurate report. Your insurer will need a copy of the report to assist with the claims process. This is really one of the car accident legal tips you need to remember.
4. Get to safety and wait for help
If you are able to, it is essential to get to safety to wait for help after calling 911. Make sure to get to the side of the road as quickly as possible. Staying on the road can put you at risk of more danger, as oncoming traffic may not see you. In addition, if you are unable to drive your car to the side, make sure you put on your hazards and use road flares if you have them available.
5. Exchange information
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Once you make sure nobody is injured, it is crucial to exchange information with the other driver. Here is what you need to ask for.
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license and license plate number
- Colour, model, and maker of the vehicle
- Insurance company and policy number
6. Document the accident
Even though the police will write up a report, you must always document the accident on your own. You should always identify the officers and get a copy of their police report. You should also take pictures of the scene, including your vehicle and the other party’s vehicle. In addition, ask any witnesses for their take on what happened.
7. Start the claim process
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Last but not least, it is essential to start the claim process. This includes speaking to your insurance company and reaching out to a car accident lawyer. However, it is important to note that personal injury law is different in every state, so you will most likely have to reach out to a local lawyer. For example, if you are involved in a car accident while visiting Chicago, reach out to a Chicago law firm like Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC.
8. Drive with care
While it is important to understand what to do after an accident, it is best to drive with extreme care while on vacation to ensure the safety of you, your vehicle, and other drivers. Always wear a seatbelt, watch the road, and follow the local driving laws.
Arm yourself with these car accident legal tips before you embark on that road adventure!
