No one gets up in the morning and expects to be involved in a road traffic accident. Unfortunately, road traffic accidents are so common that most of us will experience at least one in our lifetimes. The prospect of being involved in an accident can be daunting, but it can be made better if you know what to do when you’re in that situation.
If you already know what you’re supposed to do, you’re less likely to forget the information when you need it most. Take a look at what you should do in the event of a road traffic accident.
Pull Over Safely
If you’re able to, you should move your vehicle out of the path of oncoming traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to let other drivers know that you’re in an emergency situation. If you’re not able to move your car, turn the engine off and get out of the car safely.
Find a safe place not too far away from your vehicle to wait until help arrives. If you or anyone else has been injured, you may need to call the emergency services to the scene.
Get Checked
It’s essential to get checked over by a medical professional when you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident. The shock and adrenaline can quite easily mask pain and injuries, so you may not feel that you’re injured until a few hours after the accident. Your medical records will also serve you well if you intend to make a claim for compensation.
Exchange Details
It’s important to exchange details with the other driver when you’ve been in an accident. Ask for the driver’s name, contact number, and address. You’ll also need insurance details and any other relevant information. When discussing the accident with the other driver, never admit any fault, especially in front of witnesses.
Gather Evidence
If the accident was not your fault, it can help to gather evidence once you’re safe. Take pictures of the vehicles involved and record witness statements if you’re able to. Gathering evidence from people immediately after the accident will mean the incident is fresh in everyone’s memory, so you’ll have exactly what you need if you want to make a claim further down the line.
Find a Lawyer
When you’ve been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you deserve justice. Not only for yourself but also to make sure that no one else suffers the same fate from the same careless driver. Finding an accident lawyer will help you to start the process of making a claim for compensation.
If you were in an accident with an Uber driver, it can be more complicated to make a claim. Find a specialist Uber accident lawyer with experience of dealing with these kinds of cases for your best chance of winning. If you were driving, or involved with a truck then a specialist trucking accident lawyer will be your best bet. Take the time to find the right professional for your case.
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