A Primer On Motor Vehicle Accidents Part 1: What To Do When An Accident Happens

The National Safety Council reported the rise in traffic fatalities in 2015 was the largest increase in 50 years. Motor vehicle accidents precipitate the start of a long arduous process that may involve physical, emotional, and financial costs. For the first half of 2016, the number of fatalities was up 18% over 2015. On average, over 5000 people are in a motor vehicle accident every day. Powell Law has represented accident victims in recovering compensation for 110 years.

There are some important actions to take after involvement in an accident. First and foremost, attending to the medical needs of all those involved in the accident is of the utmost importance. However, many other actions should be taken in the event of an accident.

Important Tasks to Undertake If You Are Involved in a Car Accident

1. Stop immediately in a safe location.
2. Secure the accident scene. Locate any witnesses
3. Call and report the accident to local law enforcement.
4. Take photographs of the accident scene and gather any evidence, while creating an accurate record of all information related to the accident. It is helpful to keep a file of all paperwork associated with the accident.
5. Exchange information with other drivers and witnesses.
6. Seek any necessary medical attention as soon as possible.
7. Remove any personal property from the motor vehicle.
8. Contact your insurance carrier.
9. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

What NOT To Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident

1. NEVER drive away from a collision scene despite how minor an accident may seem. It is generally a crime in Pennsylvania to not call law enforcement to report a motor vehicle accident. The law requires that you stop your car and check the condition of the other involved parties and offer any necessary assistance. It is important to receive any necessary medical attention and obtain a police report documenting the accident.
2. Control your emotions even, and especially, if you are not at fault. Doing so will only aggravate the situation while preventing any necessary positive action required under the circumstances.
3. Do not suggest or admit fault for the accident.
4. Do not ignore or procrastinate regarding any necessary medical treatment, even if injuries are seemingly nonexistent or simply minor. Contact your attorney and insurance company immediately without delay!

If you or a loved one has suffered any type of injury as a result of a motor vehicle, motorcycle, or truck accident, contact Powell Law at call (570) 961-0777. The consultation is FREE and you don’t pay anything unless we win.