As much as they are unplanned for, car accidents are a regular occurrence and can happen to anyone and at any moment. But taking the right actions can make all the difference in such tragic situations, from seeking medical attention to hiring car accident attorneys in Arizona.
You see, Arizona happens to be a “fault” state, meaning that the driver liable for the accident is responsible for paying for sustained losses and injuries. This can include damages to the other driver’s vehicle, medical bills, and lost wages. As such, understanding your legal rights and responsibilities is essential for ensuring a fair and just outcome, whether you are the victim of the accident or the at-fault driver.
So, read on as we explore what you should do after a car accident to protect your rights as an Arizona resident.
Table of Contents
Seeking Medical Attention
The first action that you should take if you’ve just been in a car accident is to get medical attention. You might feel fine but adrenaline can mask pain and other symptoms of injuries, and some injuries may not show up until hours or even days later.
Getting medical attention right away can help identify any concealed injuries and also provides documentation of your injuries which can be used as evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.
Not seeking medical treatment may not only harm your health but also be used against you in court by insurance companies and the other party’s car accident attorneys in Arizona. Additionally, keeping track of your medical bills and expenses will be important for determining damages.
Contacting the Police and Exchanging Information
After calling for medical help, the next step is to contact the police so they can file an official police report.
This report will include details about the accident, including the date, time, location, and names of the parties involved. It will also include any witness statements and a description of the damages and injuries sustained.
Be sure to exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident too. Gather their names, contact information, insurance company and policy number, and license plate number.
As you interact with the police and the other parties involved, you must not accept liability for the accident, as it might be used against you in court. Simply exchange information and let the insurance companies and legal representatives handle the rest.
Documenting the Accident
Documenting the accident is crucial for building a strong case. This includes taking photos of the damages to your vehicle, injuries sustained, and the overall scene of the accident.
Be sure to take photos from different angles and distances, and include any skid marks or other evidence of the accident. It is also important to gather any witness statements and their contact information.
Hiring Car Accident Attorneys in Arizona for Legal Representation
If you have been in a car accident, it is highly recommended that you hire an attorney for legal representation to guide you through the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
They can also help handle interactions with the insurance company’s legal team and represent you in court if necessary.
When hiring an attorney, be sure to choose one with experience in car accident cases. Look for an attorney who is knowledgeable about Arizona laws and regulations related to car accidents.
It is important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing car accident claims in Arizona. If you are considering filing a claim, it is important to do so within two years of the accident.
In Summary
By following these steps highlighted above, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve and protect your rights as an Arizona resident if you are ever in a car accident.
However, it is just as important to avoid common mistakes that can harm your case, such as admitting fault, neglecting to seek medical attention promptly, and failing to document the accident and related expenses.
