Call an ambulance immediately if you think anyone is seriously injured. Do not attempt to move an injured person unless the person is in immediate danger.
Call the police. The police will file a report about the details of the auto accident. This report will later strengthen your case in court. When the police arrive, give them your complete cooperation. This will ensure the police report is accurate and includes everything you remember about the auto accident.
Take photographs of the scene of the accident. Make sure you get pictures of the damage to both cars and the surrounding area. Try to keep a record of any skid marks or other details. Take the pictures after everyone is safe from harm, but before the cars are moved. Drawing a diagram of the accident scene can also be useful for remembering details of the incident. Write down any observations that may be important later, including weather conditions. Make a note if any of the other drivers look as if they’ve been drinking and driving.
Obtain the name and contact information of anyone at the scene of the accident. This includes the drivers involved in the auto accident, their passengers and any witnesses. You should also get the names of emergency personnel, such as police and paramedics, who are at the scene of the accident. Don’t interfere with them doing their jobs. Get the information when everyone is out of immediate danger. Someone will also need to interview all of the witnesses and write down their comments. Obtain the insurance information, driver’s license number, and registration information from all of the drivers involved in the accident and provide your own information to the other drivers.
See a doctor as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, you may have injuries you are unaware of, and these injuries will be easier to treat if you catch them early. A complete medical record of your injuries will also strengthen your case in court if you decide to file a claim.
Call a lawyer. The sooner you contact an experienced auto accident lawyer, the sooner that lawyer can take steps to gather and preserve any uncollected evidence while it is still fresh. Even if some time has passed since the accident occurred, you can contact Law Offices of Cliff Enten to speak with our auto accident attorneys. Serving victims in Colorado Springs, Greeley, Denver and the entire state, our team will provide free advice about your legal options. Don’t wait too long to seek legal advice. The state of Colorado places strict limitations on how long you can wait to file your claim.
Contact your insurance company. Check your insurance policy to find out how much time you have to notify your insurance company with information about an auto accident. If there is time, obtain legal advice before making a formal statement to your insurance company, but don’t wait too long to provide them with complete information or you may lose your right to coverage for the accident. Don’t talk to the other driver’s insurance company without first consulting with experienced auto accident attorneys.