Holiday Season Car Accidents: What to Do When a Crash Occurs

 Posted on December 08, 2014 in Personal Injury

During the holiday season, it is especially important to maintain an extra awareness while driving. Traffic increases on the roads, around shopping centers, and in parking lots as people prepare for the holidays. In fact, it is reported that "roughly 13 percent of car accidents occur in parking lots." Additionally, dangerous winter weather can compound matters and make driving conditions even more challenging.

However, a recent article offers some well intended advice to drivers if involved in a fender bender this holiday season.

What to Do When Involved in a Crash

Most drivers are in involved in some type of accident at one point in their lives, and even minor accidents can be costly. Whether an individual is involved in a minor accident or one in which severe injuries are sustained, several basic principles hold true. Also, it is wise for anyone who is involved in an accident to consult with a personal injury attorney.

• When involved in an accident, your actions are important—whether you have a legal case or not. First, it is a good idea to avoid speaking to the other driver about who is at fault for the accident. Only discuss details of the crash with individuals who play a role in the investigation, such as police officers, the insurance company, and your attorney.

• If you are able to do so, take photos of the accident scene and the involved cars with your smartphone or other camera. It is important to document property damage and even road conditions such as skid marks.

• Collect the other driver's information, including his or her driver's license and insurance policy information. This is important even if the damage appears to be minimal. It would also be prudent to collect the contact information of any witnesses who were present at the scene and the time of the accident.

• Call police officers to the scene so that a report of the accident is on file. This will be useful if and when an insurance claim, or a potential lawsuit, is filed. Obtain a copy of the accident report as well as the officer's identifying information.

• Do not hesitate to seek medical attention for injuries. It is advisable to immediately go to the emergency room after an accident if injury is suspected.

Accident Injury Attorney

If you were recently involved in a car accident, it is important to speak with an attorney to determine if you have legal rights requiring protection. Contact the experienced DuPage County car accident attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices today to schedule a consultation. We have offices located in Lombard, Bloomingdale, and Naperville.