What To Do If You Are In An Accident

When you are in an automobile accident, it is easy to panic and say either too much, too little, or the wrong thing. Although you should call and discuss the accident with one of our attorneys as soon after the accident as possible, you will not have the benefit of his or her advice at the scene of the accident. This is why it is important to handle yourself in a manner which places you in the most positive light possible, regardless of whether you are or are not at fault, regardless of whether you are or are not injured.

While you are under an obligation to immediately report the occurrence of the accident to your insurance company, it is important to speak to one of our attorneys before you discuss specifics of the accident or damages and injuries with any insurance company, regardless of whether it is your own or the other driver’s.

If you are in an accident, the following tips are important:

• Never leave the scene of the accident without stopping. If you leave the scene of an accident, you can face severe criminal consequences for committing a “hit and run,” even if no one is injured.

• Remain Polite. It is important to remain polite and calm, regardless of whether you are at fault. In fact, at this time, you should not even concern yourself with whether you were or were not at fault. You should use the time at the accident scene to collect as much information as you can.

• Be careful what you say. Avoid any temptation to apologize or take responsibility for the accident. It is likely that what you say will appear in the police report. Conversely, do not attempt to place the blame on someone at the scene of the accident. If asked by a police officer, merely report what occurred. You are not required to speak to anyone else at the scene unless it is necessary for medical treatment. Remember that you are not a doctor or a police officer. Just stick to the facts.

• Call the police. If the accident involves physical injury or moderate to severe property damage, a police report may be the most credible recounting of the events. Also, write down the name, badge number, and police department of any police officers who arrive at the scene.

• Collect the relevant information. While at the scene of the accident, make sure you write down names, current addresses, insurance information, policy numbers, and license plate numbers of the parties involved in the accident. In addition, write down the names and addresses of any witnesses to the accident.

• Seek medical attention. If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention, even if it requires a visit to the emergency room.

• Report the accident to your insurance company. Do not hesitate to report the accident to your insurance company, as failure to do so may affect your coverage negatively. However, report only the time and place of the accident; the names, addresses, and license numbers of all involved individuals; and whether anyone suffered bodily or personal property damage. Thereafter, your insurance company will contact you to discuss the specifics of the accident; if it is at all possible, speak with one of our attorneys before you have this conversation. Your statement to the insurance company will be recorded, and may be made available to all interested individuals. Even if you believe you are 100 percent in the right and the other driver was 100 percent in the wrong, you could say something which may jeopardize your position. Under no circumstances should you speak with a representative of another driver’s insurance company before you speak with one of our attorneys.

We cannot emphasize too strongly how important it is to consult with one of our attorneys immediately after you are in an automobile accident. Time is of the essence, and one of our attorneys will be available to provide you with helpful advice, regardless of whether you were or were not injured, regardless of whether you were or were not at fault. Please contact us at 215-362-2474 or info@dbyd.com to schedule an appointment.

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