Whether it’s something small like getting your takeout order wrong, or something more serious like falling down the stairs, we all know accidents happen every day. The is especially true when it comes to traveling; regardless of how good of a driver you are, you still run the risk of getting into an accident with thousands of other drivers who may not be so good. If you do find yourself involved in a vehicle collision, it is vital that you know beforehand how to protect yourself – not just physically, but also legally.
Who do I Call
In the event that someone gets injured, the first phone number to dial should always be 911. After ensuring the safety of all parties involved, the first person you must always call is your attorney; if you get into an accident while on the job, make sure to contact your employer. While calling 911 is an important first step we are all rightfully reminded to make, the number one mistake people make in these situations is not contacting their legal representative for guidance during the time when they will need it the most; while the police and paramedics are obligated to protect you physically, they are under no obligation to protect you legally.
Always follow your lawyer’s instructions, even if it seems counterintuitive, such as not talking to the police. While it may be instinctual to want to be helpful in these situations, it is important to not run the risk of being falsely accused in court.
After the Accident
Although car accidents are known to be over as quickly as they begin, the lasting effects of these incidents can last anywhere from a few days to a lifetime: court dates, insurance disputes, auto repair, doctor’s appointments, therapy, and in the worst of cases, the financial and emotional toll of planning a funeral. These times are confusing and difficult for anyone who has had to experience them, so it becomes that much more important to have a professional, such as a personal injury attorney, who can take care of the overwhelming amount of paperwork during a time where you need will most likely need time to recover both emotionally and physically.
In Conclusion
Remember, you do not have to be a victim twice. There are avenues put in place for every kind of situation in order to ensure your legal protection, but at the end of the day, it is on you to make sure you aren’t taken advantage of by other people who know the system better than you; if you wait too long to protect yourself, the consequences could last your entire life.