The Steps You Should Take If You’ve Been In a Motor Vehicle Accident
McPhillips Fitzgerald Cullum LLP • May 22, 2023

May 22, 2023

Being involved in a car accident can be scary. Knowing what to do is important as it may help you later on in the court dealings and legal side of things. Whether it has been a small injury or a massive collison, it is important to document every detail of the accident. Here are the steps you should take if you’ve been in a car accident.

What You Need To Do Following The Accident

The very first thing to do after being in a collision is making sure you are okay, as well as any other passengers. Your safety should be your number one priority. After checking on yourself and your passengers, check on the others who have been involved in the collison and seek medical attention if needed.

Contact Police

After checking on everyone’s safety, it is important to notify the authorities and call the police. Reporting the incident is mandatory by law in some states. When the police officer arrives, collect their name, badge number, and contact information. It is also helpful to ask for a copy of the accident report from the officer.

Document The Scene

Now it’s time to document the scene by taking photos and videos of the damage using your smartphone. Taking photos of the car’s positioning on the street, close ups of the damage, as well as a video of the entire car will help decide who is at fault in the court of law. This evidence can help prove who is liable for the damage.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Not notifying your insurance company after a car accident can potentially leave you liable for all damage and costs. Call your insurance company and let them know you’ve been in an accident. Doing this will help you not be liable for anything once it’s been determined who is at fault. 

Our Attorney’s Have You Covered!

At McPhillips, Fitzgerald & Cullum LLP, our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and expertise to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. Our firm has earned Martindale-Hubbell’s highest rating of “AV” due to our determined, knowledgeable and experienced attorneys who are equipped with the passion and dedication needed to help you through every phase of your legal case. Give us a call at our Glens Fall, New York office at 518-792-1174, or at our Miami Shores, Florida office at 305-751-85556. You can also visit us at mfcllp.com to schedule an appointment. 

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