WHAT TO DO AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT

Car Accident Attorney in Stockton

When you’re involved in a car accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed with fear, anger, confusion, stress, and pain. First, remember to seek medical attention if you’ve been injured. Then, contact a car accident attorney in Stockton to protect your rights.

Do I Have to Stop?

Yes, you must stop under California law, whether you collided with another car, a pedestrian, or someone else’s property. If not, you could face hit and run charges, even if it wasn’t your fault! Depending on the severity of damages, hit and run charges may result in fines, jail time, or both.

Do I Have to Give Anyone My Information?

Yes, California law requires you to exchange your name, driver’s license number, vehicle identification number, the name and address of the car’s owner, the name and address of your insurance company, and your insurance policy number or other proof of financial responsibility.

What Information Should I Get From the Other Person?

Collect the same information you provided, as well as as much additional information as possible, such as:

• Name
• Date of birth
• License number
• License expiration date
• Vehicle identification number
• Name and address of the car’s owner
• Name and address of their insurance company
• Insurance policy number
• Car’s make, model, license plate number, and expiration date
• Contact information and insurance details of the car’s owner if different from the driver

What Other Information Should I Gather at the Scene?

It’s crucial to gather the following:

• Names and contact information of any nearby witnesses. Encourage them to stay and provide a statement to the police. If they must leave, ask them to describe the incident and share their contact details.
• If witnesses don’t want to get involved, simply ask if they have any information, especially in a hit-and-run situation.
• Name and badge number of the police officers who arrive at the scene. Inquire about when you can obtain a report.
• Take pictures if possible. If not, draw a diagram of the scene, ensuring accuracy with details like skid marks. Additionally, note the weather and other conditions such as time of day and lighting. A Sacramento car accident lawyer will use this evidence to prove liability.
• Precisely record the time, date, and location of the accident. Estimate your speed at the time of the incident. The sooner you write down your report, the more accurate it will be.

What If the Property Owner Can’t Be Found?

If you collide with someone’s property and cannot locate the owner, you may leave the scene after leaving your name, address, an explanation of the accident, and the name and address of the car’s owner if it’s not you. Ensure this information is left in an obvious location, so the property owner sees it, and it won’t be lost by natural causes, such as wind.

Additionally, you must inform the local police or highway patrol as soon as possible. If an officer doesn’t come to the location, you must file a report at the police department yourself. A car accident attorney in Stockton will use this report to help build your case.

What If Someone Is Injured?

You must help an injured person after a collision. First, check yourself, then assist others. Stay calm and breathe deeply—you may feel some amount of shock. You may need to call an ambulance or take the individual to the hospital yourself, provided they are not severely injured. However, if someone is severely hurt, do not move them unless necessary to prevent further harm, such as in the case of a vehicle collision or fire.

What If I Don’t Have a Phone?

If you cannot call for help, signal passing vehicles that there’s a problem. For instance, place flares on the road, ensuring nothing flammable is nearby. Additionally, turn on your hazard lights and pop your hood. Try to flag down a passing car.

What Do I Say to 911?

First, try to determine your location—can you see street signs? If you’re on the highway, look for signs indicating nearby towns or mile markers. It’s crucial to be as precise as possible when explaining your location to the 911 operator, as their location systems aren’t always perfectly accurate. Explain what happened and whether you need an ambulance or a firetruck. Finally, do not hang up until the operator instructs you to. Stay calm and follow their directions.

Contact Car Accident Attorney in Stockton to Discuss Your Case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, motorcycle accident, or truck accident, it’s essential to call an experienced car accident attorney immediately. Seeking legal guidance is imperative, as an attorney will have the industry experts and investigators needed to build a strong case. A car accident attorney in Stockton at The Friel Law Firm will fight to ensure you receive just compensation. Call (209) 464-8000 for a free car accident case consultation today!

What Causes Car Accidents?

Car accidents can occur due to various factors, often involving a combination of human error, environmental conditions, and mechanical failures. Below are some common causes:

• Distracted Driving: One of the leading causes of car accidents. This includes activities like texting or talking on a cellphone, eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to people in the car.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces the driver’s ability to react to changing road conditions. Moreover, it increases the severity of accidents when they occur.
• Drunk Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, leading to a significant number of accidents.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and running red lights contribute to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven road surfaces, and lack of proper signage or lighting can lead to accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Malfunctions in a vehicle, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can cause accidents, especially at high speeds.
• Fatigue: Drowsy driving impairs reaction time and decision-making abilities, making it a significant risk factor for accidents.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or young drivers may lack the skills and judgment needed to handle challenging driving situations.
• Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions, such as seizures or heart attacks, can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.
• Animals: Collisions with animals, especially in areas near forests or rural areas, can cause accidents.
• Construction Zones: Reduced lanes, detours, and changing traffic patterns in construction zones can lead to accidents, especially if drivers aren’t paying attention.
• Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely doesn’t allow enough time to react if the front car suddenly stops.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Apart from alcohol and drugs, certain prescription medications can also impair driving ability.

Contact Car Accident Attorney in Stockton to Discuss Your Case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, motorcycle accident, or truck accident, it’s essential to call an experienced car accident attorney immediately. Seeking legal guidance is imperative, as an attorney will have the industry experts and investigators to build a strong case. A car accident attorney in Stockton at The Friel Law Firm will fight to ensure just compensation is received. Call (209) 464-8000 for a free car accident case consultation today!